Navigating the Ins and Outs of Tying the Knot in Maine: Expert Advice from a Local Photographer
As a Southern Maine wedding photographer, I've guided many couples through the marriage process here. While the romantic coastal views and charming venues might have drawn you to Maine, let's focus on what you actually need to do to make your marriage legal. For couples planning an elopement, we offer something special: our team includes a licensed Marriage Officiant, allowing us to both perform and photograph your ceremony for a seamless experience.
First Things First: Let's Make It Legal!
After photographing dozens weddings in Maine, I know that getting your marriage license here is actually pretty painless (if only choosing your wedding hashtag was this easy!). even if you're planning to say your vows elsewhere in the state. Bring your IDs, $40, and your partner, and you'll walk out ready to get married within 90 days. Easy peasy!
Pro tip from behind the lens: If you're planning photos at your license signing (they make for adorable shots!), Portland's City Hall has gorgeous natural light in their clerk's office.
Getting Your Marriage License
Where to Go
If you are both residents of Maine, pop into your local clerk’s office—
same town if you live in the same town
one of the towns if you live in different towns
If you are not from Maine— any town clerk's office in Maine – yes, any town, it doesn't have to be where you're getting married
Portland City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4:30 PM (call ahead as hours can change)
Both parties must appear together in person
What to Bring
Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
$40 for the license fee (fees can vary slightly by town)
If previously married: certified copy of divorce decree or death certificate
Social Security numbers (you'll need to provide these on the application)
Important Details
No waiting period - you can get married the same day you get your license
License is valid for 90 days from issue date
No residency requirements
Must be at least 18 years old (16-17 requires parental consent and court order)
The Ceremony Requirements
Who Can Officiate
Ordained ministers, priests, or pastors
Maine notary publics
Maine attorneys who are notary publics
Judges or justices (active or retired)
Planning an elopement? Our team member Julia is a licensed Marriage Officiant in Maine. That means we can handle both your ceremony and photography, making your intimate wedding seamless and stress-free. It's a unique service that lets us create a truly personal experience while ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Witness Requirements
Two witnesses must sign your marriage license
Witnesses do not have to be 18 years old, but must be able to read, write and understand English, sign their own name and understand the seriousness of the event. I know, no pets :( , even though they totally get what is going on.
Your officiant can’t be a witness
After the Ceremony
Filing the License
Your officiant (no one else) must file the completed license within 7 working days of the ceremony
They'll return it to the same town clerk's office where you obtained it (by mail or in-person)
You don't need to be present for this part
Getting Your Marriage Certificate
Order certified copies from the town clerk where the license was filed
Certificates typically cost ~$15 each
You'll want multiple copies for name changes and legal documentation
Common Questions I Get Asked
Out-of-State Couples
You don't need to be a Maine resident
Your marriage will be recognized in all other states
You can apply for your license even if you're from another country
Same-Sex Marriage
Legal in Maine since 2012!
Exact same requirements and process as any other marriage
All town clerks must issue licenses regardless of personal beliefs
All couples, all love stories, always welcome here!
Name Changes
Decide before the ceremony - your choices will be listed on the marriage certificate
Options include keeping your name, taking your spouse's, hyphenating, or creating a new name
The marriage certificate is your legal basis for name changes
Important Tips
Timing
Get your license at least a few days before the wedding if possible
Some town offices have limited hours - check ahead. It can be easiest for you to call ahead, ask them to email you the paperwork and have most of it completed before you arrive. Make sure you have all the details, like your parents’ full legal names and places of birth!
Summer is busy - expect longer wait times at clerk offices
Documents
Bring original documents, not photocopies
If documents aren't in English, you need certified translations
Keep copies of everything
Contact Information for Southern Maine Town Clerks
South Portland
25 Cottage Road
(207) 767-7628
Portland
389 Congress Street, Room 203
(207) 874-8610
Scarborough
259 US Route 1
(207) 730-4020
Cape Elizabeth
320 Ocean House Road
(207) 799-7665
Remember, as your wedding photographer, I'm happy to provide recommendations for reliable officiants I've worked with across Southern Maine. Planning the legal aspects of your wedding doesn't have to be stressful - it's actually one of the simpler parts of the process when you know what to expect. If you are planning an elopement, our team member Julia is a licensed Marriage Officiant, and together we can marry and capture the moment.
Why Maine? Because Magic Happens Here
I might be biased, but being blessed to spend my time capturing love stories all over Southern Maine – from intimate elopements on hidden beaches to grand celebrations in historic barns – I can tell you that there's something truly special about getting married here. Maybe it's the wild unpredictability of the weather, the coastal fog, how the air smells like salt and pine trees, or maybe it's just the laid-back Maine vibe that makes everyone feel that it really is the way life and weddings should be!
Whatever it is, I'd love to help you capture every moment of your Maine wedding day. Because at the end of the day, these aren't just photos – they're the memories that will far outlast the flowers, the cake, and even the dress. Let’s bottle up the magic of your love story and the moments of your elopement or wedding to relive it for years to come.