Staying involved in the small details can be difficult. There are so many other things that you want to worry about such as where you get married and what food will be served. Working with a wedding planner will ensure that you have this detail completed on your checklist.

The most important thing to never forget on your day is the marriage license. This is a quick checklist to know what to do and where to go, which seems so stressful. For those of you new to this process, listen up because it’s actually quite simple.

Marriage License Process:

1. Determine if you want a Traditional or Covenant Marriage (see Covenant Marriage link below)
2. Gather proper identification for both parties such as driver’s license.
3. Both parties must be present at appointment. (see locations by county #5)
4. Both parties must be 18 yrs old or older (If younger, the minor is required to bring a parent/guardian along with minor’s birth certificate)
5. Bring fee in acceptable form designated by county.

Three Larger Counties

i.      Maricopa County

ii.      Pinal County

iii.      Pima County

1. Mail in your signed marriage license after your wedding ceremony (be sure to request 2 copies)
2. Wait 4-6 weeks to receive the official license from the state before changing your name.

Note: Marriage license is valid immediately and up to one year. No blood tests are required.

Time is ticking on finding the perfect wedding venue. No one said this would be an easy task. On another thought, you really may have no clue what to do when it comes to scouting out a venue and figuring out the next steps. I’m here to tell you that this is your first step after the engagement because your entire wedding hinges on the location of your ceremony and reception (of course, this is easier when both at same location). The venue sets the tone and allows you to select colors, styles, and food choices that fit your preferences.

Close To Home

Choosing a venue close to home saves time and money. This allows you to closely monitor all the special details and take tours of the venue open houses. This is a great way to select local vendors and have a green, eco-friendly wedding. Arizona also provides gorgeous sunsets and many fine venues that range from reception only sites to full-service resorts. Some venues require your vendor choices be selected from a preapproved list. This may help you find ease at “shopping” at once but may limit your favorite photographer that you can’t live without.

Stateside Selections

In all its beautiful colors and landscape, Arizona does miss the unmistakable beachside views that you yearn to see in your pictures. You may find wish to for a beach wedding soaking up the rays on the beach. Take a weekend trip six months or more prior to wedding to meet with potential vendors. Contact area venues for their vendor recommendations as this will be a current referral (vendor lists are seldom updated online).

Tropical or International Calling Card

The economy is not the only factor driving this exciting romance getaway. Your friends and family play a large part in attendance on your day. Determine if your friends and family will need a passport and/or visa for your destination wedding. I strongly recommend using a travel planner for booking hotel and flights. The Swine Flu was a big roadblock for weddings and honeymooners in 2009 causing resort closures all over. Be prepared for any unexplained natural or biomedical disaster and renovations that may leave you stranded. Destination weddings can truly be a breathtaking and magical experience for you and your guests when planned out.

Copyright © 2009 – Valerie Bolitho. Valerie Bolitho is the owner of Blueprint Affairs, Wedding & Event Planning. As a wedding planner, she can assist with everything from day-of-event coordination to full wedding planning. With attention to detail and never settling for anything short of your vision, Blueprint Affairs strives for excellence and will truly make your event one to remember. At Blueprint Affairs, Your Vision is Our Blueprint. Visit them online at www.blueprintaffairs.com