Eloping in WA state

kaylajustineee

Hi! Okay, I really need help. My fiancé and I are planning on eloping in Washington in December, 2015. We live in Texas however. Now my question is, should we just get a marriage license in TX and just have a ceremony in WA that is unofficial but just simply for us. Or should we be going about this differently and get a marriage license in WA. Also who should marry us? We really wanted to have a family member do it or a close friend that will be with us. I just need help all around! 

Knottie0059276

Hi!! Love this idea, although I'm probably biased since I'm from Washington With regard to the marriage license you can do whatever is best for you, although a lot of people on this forum will tell you it's pointless to get married before your ceremony. I can tell you it's super easy to get a marriage license in WA though so I would just do that if I were you. You don't have to be a resident, you can just show up with photo ID. You would have to be in WA a few days in advance though because there is a three day waiting period. I would call the auditor's office in whatever county you plan to marry to get advice on specific details.

Jells2dot0

It doesn't sound like you are eloping if someone you know will be marrying you (and it sounds like your family will know, too). It sounds more like a private or intimate destination wedding.

That being said, it's always proper etiquette to become legally married during your ceremony. So, I recommend that you obtain your license in WA and have it be legal after you say your vows.