Before the fun decisions, let's chat about the legal logistics of getting married here in Connecticut. It's important you decide on the "where" before you can apply for your marriage license, as Connecticut requires that you obtain your marriage license in the town you plan to get married in. You're going to want to make an appointment with the county clerk/vital records office, and both of you must go together to apply. You'll need documentation - so be sure to check with the vital records office of the town you're going to, so that you arrive with the right paperwork. There will be a minimal fee (typically between $30-50 depending on location) - I highly recommend taking cash with you for this, as a lot of county and town offices require cash (some will allow you to pay with a credit card). From there you'll just need your officiant (keep reading to see who is qualified), have your legal marriage within 65 days of applying, and then be sure to send in your signed documents!

To sum up:
Where: Town Clerk / Vital Records Office of the town you plan to marry in
Cost: Typically $30-50, I recommend bringing cash
When: No more than 65 days prior to your wedding, and submit/mail in your signed paperwork right away
Who: Your chosen officiant (see below for who can be an officiant)

• Judges or retired judges, including federal judges and judges of other states;
• Family support magistrates, family support referees, state referees and justices of the peace who are appointed in Connecticut; and
• Ordained or licensed members of the clergy, including persons who have been ordained through online ministries and who are given the authority to officiate marriages through such ministries.

You won't need a witness, so it can be just you and your officiant if you want to keep it simple - and as an elopement specialist I am able to offer officiant services during your vow exchange (I am ordained through the ULC and happy to provide non-religious services!).

Next up, things get a little more fun! You'll choose the vendors that can bring your elopement vision to life.... you can have as few or as little as you want. Since your vendors may be the only people who spend your wedding day with you, it's important to find people who not only provide you services you love, but also people who you vibe with! Get people on zoom or on the phone, and talk to them for a bit - ask to see reviews and portfolios - chit chat, and make sure you like the people you're going to be working with. So... who should you hire? Some of the vendors you may want to consider are

1. Photographer (this is important and if you're going to have one, should be one of the first vendors you find... they'll be able to help a lot)
2. Videographer (quickly gaining popularity, something like a Super 8 option that is more personal is a fun way to document your day)
3. Elopement Designer/Planner (not a necessity, but if you want to be more hands off and have less to do, this is a vendor who is going to be important!)
4. Hairstylist/Makeup Artist (if you can't book a trial, make sure you find someone you like, who has a strong portfolio, and will zoom with you in advance)
5. Florist (you may need to research if you can bring flowers into the area you're eloping - some places do not allow flowers into the environment, and your elopement specialist can guide you on this)
6. Cake/Caterer (are you wanting a sweet to share after? Or maybe a private chef to cook you a private dinner at the place you're staying?)
7. Lodging (if you're traveling or want to stay somewhere special, arranging a B&B or short-term vacation rental can be important to work out)
8. Stationer (sending out elopement announcements after the fact, or finding a digital creator to make you a fun graphic to text - this is a neat detail add on!)
9. Officiant (either a guest, your photographer, or an independent officiant - just adhere to the state regulations in the section above)