Virginia

A marriage license in Virginia is issued by the Clerk of a Circuit Court or a Deputy Clerk of a Circuit Court in any county or city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. You can obtain your license through any Circuit Court; it does not have to be in the county or city where the wedding is taking place or where you live. Your marriage license is valid for your ceremony to take place anywhere within the State.

Start by deciding which Circuit Court you wish to use. Always double-check the requirements specified on the Court's website. Some courts will allow you to apply for your license online, some allow you to schedule appointments to go in-person and others allow you to walk in to apply.

You will both need to provide government-issued identification, social security number, full birth names of each of your parents including middle names and maiden names, and the application fee (subject to change by currently $30.00.)

Your license is typically issued immediately (if you apply online, you will likely still have to pick it up at the Court) and there is no waiting period to get married following issuance. However, the marriage must be performed within 60 days or the license will expire.

Virginia does NOT automatically issue certified copies of your marriage license. You should receive instructions on how to request copies when you apply for and pick up your license. If you cannot locate that information, go onto the website for the Circuit Court where you obtained your license and fill out the Marriage License Copy Request Form.

Website:
List of local County Circuit Court Clerk Office in Virginia
http://www.courts.state.va.us/courts/circuit.html

Washington, D.C.

If you’re getting married inside the beltway, both parties do not have to be present to get your marriage license. One of you must bring your completed marriage license application to the marriage bureau along with proof of age for both parties in the form of a driver’s license, government-issued non-driver’s ID, or passport.

When you apply for your license, you will need to reference my information as follows:

My name is in the DC system as Sarah Elise Peterson, my Minister Number is MIN 029052, and my company is registered as Sincerely Pete.

If neither you nor your fiancé(e) can be present, a third party or proxy service can apply on your behalf provided they have proper identification for each of you and the fee (this requires notarized copies of your legal IDs). I do provide proxy services for an additional fee.

Your license can be issued the same day you apply assuming all information is accurate and the fee is paid at the time of application. In D.C. your license does not expire.

To apply for your license in D.C., you’ll need to visit:

Marriage Bureau in Room JM-690 of the Moultrie Courthouse
500 Indiana Avenue, N.W.
Room 4485
Washington, D.C. 20001
(202) 879-4840

Washington D.C. Fees are as follows:
- $45.00 Marriage Application Fee
- $10.00 Certificate Fee

Website:
https://www.dccourts.gov/services/marriage-matters

Maryland

In Maryland you’ll have to call the county you’re getting married in specifically as the requirements to obtain a license vary from county to county.

Maryland requires that a marriage license be obtained from the Circuit Court in the county where the marriage is to take place regardless of the residency of the couple to be married. For example: If you are planning to be married in Montgomery County, Maryland, you must obtain a marriage license from the Clerk of Montgomery County Circuit Court. Some county's do offer online applications.

It is important to note that regardless of county, Maryland has a 48 hour waiting period after receiving your license before you can get married. The license is valid for six months after you receive it.

Fees vary by county and range between $25.00-$85.00

Website:
Maryland County Circuit Court Offices:
http://www.courts.state.md.us/district/directories/courtmap.html


Other factors to keep in mind:

• Most courthouse clerk’s offices are open Monday –Friday 8:30 – 4:30/5:00 (check online for hours). I suggest planning ahead to ensure you have your license in hand a week prior to your wedding ceremony/license signing date.

• If you are divorced you will need to know the month and year of the divorce, along with the jurisdiction where the divorce was decreed. Some counties will require copies of your divorce paperwork.

• DC, Virginia, and Maryland NO NOT require blood tests.

If you have any questions about the marriage license process,
send me an email and let me know how I can!

Photographer credit: Alicia Lacey Photography

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a Humanist, nondenominational wedding officiant, ceremony consulting & elopement planning company for modern-minded couples. I am located in Charlottesville, VA, and offer officiant services for couples worldwide and throughout Virginia [including Richmond, Lynchburg, Harrisonburg, Alexandria, Arlington, Leesburg, & Shenandoah National Park] and Washington, D.C.  

As the owner and lead officiant, I streamline the ceremony planning process so that it is easy to navigate as well as meaningful to the experience. My clients focus on each other and what is important to them so their wedding day is a true reflection of their relationship and love. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated.
infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

However, in Virginia, having a friend or family member officiate isn’t as straightforward as you might think—at least not if you want your marriage to be legally recognized.

Virginia’s Laws on Wedding Officiants

Virginia is one of the stricter states when it comes to who can legally solemnize a marriage. In short:
✔ You must have your marriage license signed by an authorized officiant vested by a Virginia court.
✔ Unlike some states, online ordinations (such as Universal Life Church and American Marriage Ministries) are not accepted in Virginia.

Technically, Virginia does allow people to apply for a one-time civil celebrant authorization through the circuit court, but here’s the catch:

• Applications are often denied—especially in more populated counties as well as smaller counties who don’t have a separate civil wedding division.

• Some courts require applicants to be residents of Virginia.

• The process can involve court appearances, fees, and waiting periods.

I’ve seen this scenario play out too many times: couples assume their loved one can officiate, only to find out at the last minute that their marriage won’t be legal without a court-approved officiant. Cue the stress and scramble.

Avoid the Legal Headache

Your wedding day should be about joy and connection—not paperwork panic. That’s why I offer a Marriage License Signing Service, starting at just $250, which guarantees your marriage will be legally recognized in Virginia.

As an authorized officiant vested by the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am legally allowed to perform weddings and sign marriage licenses in any city or county in the state. Whether you want me to perform a full custom ceremony or simply sign your license after a friend “officiates” the symbolic portion, I’ve got you covered.

Getting Married Outside of Virginia?

No problem! My endorsement through the Humanist Society gives me the same legal standing as clergy in other states, so I can often help ensure your marriage is legal even if you’re saying “I do” beyond Virginia borders. (Always check local laws, but reach out—I’ll guide you through it!)

Here’s the Bottom Line

Your wedding ceremony can be anything you dream of—fun, heartfelt, traditional, completely unique. Just make sure the legal part is handled by someone who is actually authorized. Don’t leave the legality of your marriage up to chance.

📩 Have questions or need a legal signature for your license? Contact me today to book your license signing or learn more about my officiating services.

But what if you didn’t have to rush? What if your wedding day could actually feel intentional—not just planned, but present, grounded, and totally you?

For many couples, that’s the appeal of an intimate wedding. Fewer guests doesn’t mean fewer memories. In fact, it often creates space for more connection, more creativity, and more meaning—especially when it comes to your ceremony.

As a humanist celebrant, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply moving and elevated small weddings can be. Here’s how an intimate celebration allows your ceremony to shine as the true heart of your day.

The Power of Presence in a Small Ceremony

There’s something uniquely sacred about standing in front of the people who know and love you most. With a smaller guest list, the energy shifts—from performance to presence.

Couples tell me they feel more at ease. More seen. More emotionally grounded. Instead of scanning a sea of faces, they’re surrounded by warmth. And in that closeness, your words, vows, and emotions resonate more deeply—between you and your partner, and among those guests you have chosen to surround yourselves with on your wedding day.

This presence makes it easier to stay in the moment—and it turns your ceremony into something truly unforgettable.

More Time to Tell Your Story

With less pressure to squeeze everything into a rigid timeline, intimate weddings open the door to storytelling.

I don’t just recite your love story—I write it with you. Together, we craft a narrative that honors where you’ve been, what you’ve built, and what you’re promising for the future. There’s room for personal anecdotes, inside jokes, and thoughtful moments that might get cut in a more traditional ceremony.

Want to include a reading from your favorite novel? Invite a parent or friend to share a few words? Add a moment of reflection, a group blessing, or a shared ritual? Yes. Yes. Yes. With fewer constraints, you can say what you actually want to say—and savor every word.

Elevated Rituals and Thoughtful Touches

Intimate doesn’t mean simple. In fact, smaller guest counts often allow for elevated details that make your ceremony feel designed.

You could incorporate a handfasting, a wine-blending ritual, or a letter exchange. I’ve seen couples invite their guests into a circle of support or to participate in a ring warming- a ritual that doesn’t work as well with bigger crowds.

These choices are more than aesthetic—they’re emotional anchors. They reflect your values and style, and they bring your story to life in tangible, lasting ways.

The Ceremony as Centerpiece

Here’s the truth: at an intimate wedding, the ceremony isn’t just the thing that kicks off the day. It is the main event.

When your guest list is small, your ceremony becomes more than a formality—it becomes a shared experience. This is where your people truly witness you stepping into marriage, not just legally, but emotionally and intentionally.

And when it’s done right, the ceremony becomes the most talked-about, cherished part of the celebration. It sets the tone for everything that follows. It invites laughter, tears, and reflection. It reminds everyone why they’ve gathered—and who you are as a couple.

This is the part of the day you’ll replay in your mind for years to come. Your ceremony deserves that kind of presence. That kind of care. That kind of meaning.

And I will never treat it like a formality. For me, your ceremony is not a script to be filled in—it’s a story to be honored, a moment to be felt, and a memory to be created with intention.

Humanist, Bespoke, and Designed for You

Whether you're blending cultural backgrounds, skipping tradition, or forging a path that's entirely your own, intimate weddings make it easier to honor what matters most.

Every ceremony I write is bespoke—custom-written just for you. There are no templates, no generic lines, and no assumptions about what your love looks like. We build your ceremony around your relationship, your humor, your values, and your vision for marriage.

This is not just about saying “I do.” It’s about starting your marriage with depth, clarity, and connection.

Let’s Create a Moment That Matters

If you’re planning a small wedding, you already know that less can be more. But when it comes to your ceremony, more doesn’t mean bigger. It means more meaning. More care. More truth.

If you're ready to craft a ceremony that feels like you—romantic, honest, and unforgettable—I’d be honored to be your celebrant.

Let’s make the most of this moment.

There’s something incredibly personal and beautiful about asking a friend or family member to officiate your wedding. They’ve seen your relationship grow, they know your quirks and love story, and they’re probably as excited as you are to celebrate this moment.

But here’s the thing:
Officiating a wedding is harder than it looks.

Every year, I work with couples who want a loved one to lead their ceremony—and every year, I help them avoid major mistakes that could make their day more stressful than sentimental. So, if you’re planning to be married by someone special who’s never officiated before, read on. I’m sharing how to do it legally, meaningfully, and without regret.

First, Can a Friend or Family Member Officiate a Wedding?

Yes—but it depends where you’re getting married.
Here’s a quick breakdown for couples in the D.C. and Virginia area:

Washington, D.C.

• You can apply for a temporary officiant license, or even self-officiate (yes, really!).

• Your friend can legally perform the ceremony with minimal red tape.

Virginia

• Virginia is not as relaxed.

• Online ordinations are often not recognized here. Your friend will likely not be approved by a local circuit court to officiate.

• You’ll either need to:

  • Have a professional officiant (like me) handle the legalities, or

  • Petition the court—and most requests are denied unless the person is a minister with a religious organization.

Bottom line?
Even if your friend is great at public speaking, there’s a good chance they can’t legally marry you—at least in Virginia.

What Can Go Wrong (and How to Prevent It)

Having a friend or family member officiate your wedding sounds like a dream. But without guidance, it can quickly turn into a stressor for everyone. Here are just a few real-world scenarios I’ve seen:

• The license gets filled out wrong. You’d be surprised how often this happens—and it can delay your legal marriage or require an expensive do-over.

• The ceremony is too short, too long, or just awkward. Without a clear structure, things get disjointed. (Cue nervous laughter or a wandering reading from Google.)

• They forget something vital. Like… the vows. Or the declaration of intent (which is required for your marriage to be valid).

• They panic on the day-of. Your best friend might be hilarious at brunch, but giving a public address with legal consequences? That’s another story.

Three Smart Ways to Make It Work

You can still have your dream of being married by someone you love—and protect yourself from disaster. Here’s how:

1. Let Your Loved One Lead the Ceremony, but Hire a Pro to Handle the Legal Stuff

This is the most seamless and stress-free option. I’ll quietly sign your license before or after the ceremony, ensuring everything is legally sound. Your friend gets the spotlight; I take care of the paperwork.

2. Book an Officiant to Write the Ceremony and Coach Your Friend

This is where I shine. I’ll work closely with you to craft a custom ceremony script, coach your loved one so they feel confident and prepared, and guide everyone on logistics (like mic placement and cueing). It’ll still feel deeply personal—just polished and professional, too.

3. Separate the Legal Marriage from the Celebration

Some couples opt to sign the license in a private civil ceremony (even just at brunch!) and treat the wedding day as a symbolic celebration. This allows for total flexibility and creativity in the ceremony itself.

Real Talk: Your Ceremony Deserves More Than Just “Winging It”

Even if your ceremony is short or casual, it’s still one of the most important moments of your life. The words matter. The structure matters. And feeling confident in the person leading you into marriage? That matters most of all.

That’s why I offer ceremony coaching, script writing, and legal license signing—so your friend can shine, your ceremony can feel unforgettable, and you can relax knowing it’s all covered.

Need Help Making It Official?

If you’re planning a friend- or family-officiated wedding in Virginia, D.C., or Maryland, let’s chat. I can help you:

• Craft a meaningful, customized ceremony

• Walk your loved one through their role and responsibilities

• Sign your legal license (before or after the event)

• Avoid awkward moments and legal mishaps

Ready to get started?
Contact me here. Your ceremony deserves a little extra love—and I’d be honored to help make it seamless.

You’ve got the rings, the partner, and the plan—but you’re wondering:
Can we legally get married now and celebrate later?

Whether it’s to meet a deadline (hello, benefits or immigration paperwork), reduce stress, or simply align with your timeline, more and more couples are choosing to separate the legal wedding from the ceremonial celebration.

And guess what? That’s not just okay—it can actually be ideal.

As a professional wedding officiant in Virginia, Washington, D.C. and beyond, I help couples like you every year navigate what I call the “courthouse-style wedding”—a quick, simple legal marriage followed by a meaningful symbolic ceremony later.

In this post, I’m walking you through exactly how it works, what to expect, and how to make both moments feel personal and intentional.

What Is a Courthouse-Style Wedding in Virginia?

Let’s get this part clear up front:
In Virginia, there’s technically no such thing as a “courthouse wedding” in the way you might picture it in movies.

You do apply for your marriage license at the courthouse—but judges or clerks do not typically perform weddings. Instead, Virginia law requires that a marriage be officiated by someone who has been authorized by a circuit court—like me.

So what’s a courthouse-style wedding?

It’s a short, simple, private ceremony—just you, your partner, and a legally authorized officiant (and sometimes a witness). It might take place:

• In your living room

• At a park or cafe

• In my office or home garden

• Or anywhere you feel comfortable

There’s no guest list, no aisle, no big production. Just a few legal words, a signature, and a lot of love.

Why Do Couples Get Legally Married Before Their Wedding Day?

There are plenty of reasons couples choose to get legally married early and hold their “wedding” later:

• Logistical Needs: For immigration, insurance, or military purposes

• Destination Weddings or Elopements: You want to do the legal part in the U.S. before heading abroad

• Ceremony Timing: Your big celebration is months away, but you want to be married now

• Emotional Simplicity: Removing the legal pressure from the wedding day allows you to be more present and focused on the emotional moment

Whatever your reason, a two-part wedding can offer both flexibility and intention—especially when it’s supported by someone who understands the legal and symbolic significance of each moment.

What Is a Symbolic Wedding Ceremony?

A symbolic wedding is a full ceremony in structure and feeling—it just doesn’t include the legal license signing.

That means:

• You still walk down the aisle

• You exchange vows and rings

• You involve your guests and tell your story

• You include readings, rituals, music—whatever is meaningful to you

But the marriage license has already been taken care of beforehand.

Symbolic weddings are common among couples who’ve eloped, had a civil marriage, or legally married in advance but want the celebration to feel sacred, emotional, and complete.

And no—guests usually can’t tell the difference.

Do You Have to Tell Guests You’re Already Married?

Not unless you want to.

Some couples announce both their legal and ceremonial dates (and treat them both like anniversaries!), while others keep the legal side quiet and let the ceremony serve as their public declaration.

There’s no right or wrong—just what feels right for you.

How to Make Both Moments Feel Meaningful

Just because the legal signing is simple doesn’t mean it has to feel rushed or disconnected. Here are a few ideas to make your courthouse-style elopement feel special:

• Wear something you love (even if it’s jeans and a jacket)

• Bring a witness or friend to take photos

• Write mini vows for each other, even in private

• Plan a small celebration after—lunch, champagne, a walk in the park

Then, when it’s time for your symbolic wedding celebration, let yourself fully lean in to the emotion and meaning of that moment. A well-crafted ceremony will make it feel just as real as any legal proceeding.

How I Help with Two-Part Weddings

As a licensed and court-authorized officiant in Virginia and Washington, D.C. and beyond, I regularly help couples who are:

• Legally marrying before their celebration

• Planning a symbolic ceremony at a later date

• Eloping but still want their ceremony to feel personal and grounded

• Having a friend or family member officiate and need professional scriptwriting or coaching

Here's how I can support you:

✅ Marriage License Signing: I’ll meet with you to legally marry you in a simple, private ceremony wherever you'd like.
✅ Custom Ceremony Creation: I’ll write a symbolic wedding ceremony that reflects your values, personalities, and story—so it feels like your wedding, not just a formality.
✅ Officiating or Coaching: Whether you want me to lead the ceremony or a loved one to step in, I’ll ensure the words are perfect and the moment feels grounded and joyful.

Final Thoughts

Getting married “on paper” before your big day doesn’t make your wedding any less real.

In fact, having a courthouse-style elopement followed by a symbolic ceremony allows you to approach both moments with more clarity, presence, and peace of mind.

The marriage is in the commitment you make—not just the paperwork.
And your ceremony should reflect that.

Planning to legally marry now and celebrate later?

Let’s talk about how I can help with your elopement, your symbolic wedding, or both.

Many couples choose to legally marry in the U.S. either before or after their destination wedding to simplify the process and avoid potential legal challenges. In this guide, I’ll walk you through why this approach makes sense, how to do it, and how I can help make the process seamless through my legal license signing and ghostwriting services.

Why Get Legally Married in the U.S. Before or After Your Destination Wedding?

While a symbolic ceremony abroad can be the highlight of your wedding experience, taking care of the legal paperwork in the U.S. can save you stress, time, and even money. Here’s why many couples opt for this route:

1. Avoid Complicated International Paperwork

Every country has its own marriage laws, and some require residency, specific documentation, or additional processing time that may not fit your wedding plans.

2. Ensure Your Marriage is Recognized Back Home

Some international marriages require extra steps to be legally recognized in the U.S., such as translating documents or registering your marriage after returning home. Getting legally married in the U.S. avoids these hurdles.

3. Keep Your Wedding Focused on Celebration, Not Logistics

By handling the legal paperwork before or after your wedding abroad, your destination wedding can be fully about celebrating your love, without worrying about legalities.

Should You Legally Marry Before or After Your Destination Wedding?

✅ Marry Before – If you want to ensure your destination wedding is purely symbolic and avoid international paperwork, legally marrying in the U.S. first is a great choice.

✅ Marry After – If you want your destination wedding to feel like the “official” moment, you can have a private legal signing in the U.S. when you return home.

No matter which option you choose, I can help make it easy!

How to Legally Marry in the U.S. Before or After Your Destination Wedding

If you decide to take care of the legal aspect of your marriage before or after your big day abroad, here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Obtain a Marriage License

Each state has its own requirements for obtaining a marriage license, including waiting periods and expiration dates. Be sure to check the laws in your state to ensure a smooth process.

2. Sign the License with a Licensed Officiant

A legal marriage requires an authorized officiant to sign your license. You don’t need a full ceremony—just a simple signing is enough to make it official.

3. Submit Your Marriage License for Filing

Once signed, your officiant (that’s me!) will file your marriage license with the appropriate county or city office, ensuring everything is properly recorded.

How I Can Help: My Services for Destination Wedding Couples

I offer two key services to help couples planning destination weddings:

1. Legal License Signing (Available Nationwide)

No matter where you are in the U.S., I can legally officiate your marriage and handle your marriage license signing before or after your destination wedding. Whether you prefer a quick signing at home, a private elopement, or something in between, I can help!

✨ What’s Included?
✅ A simple, no-fuss legal marriage license signing
✅ Filing of your marriage license for official registration

This service is perfect for couples who want to focus on their symbolic wedding abroad while ensuring their marriage is legally recognized.

2. Ghostwriting for Your Destination Wedding Ceremony

If you’re planning to have a friend or family member officiate your destination wedding, I can help write a custom wedding script that reflects your love story and values. This ensures your ceremony feels personal and heartfelt while also giving your chosen officiant a polished, professional script to follow.

✨ What’s Included?
✅ A fully customized wedding ceremony script
✅ Guidance for your chosen officiant
✅ Options for vows, readings, and personal touches

This service allows you to have a completely unique and meaningful wedding ceremony without putting pressure on your friend or family member to write it themselves.

Additional Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding

Beyond handling your legal marriage in advance or afterward, here are some extra tips for ensuring a smooth destination wedding experience:

1. Research Your Destination’s Marriage Laws

If you’re considering legally marrying abroad, check the country’s requirements well in advance. Some require residency, specific documents, or a civil ceremony before a symbolic one.

2. Plan for Marriage Certificate Copies

If you legally marry in the U.S., order extra certified copies of your marriage certificate. You may need them for name changes, legal documentation, or proof of marriage abroad.

3. Inform Your Guests About Travel & Legalities

Make sure your guests have all the necessary travel documents and understand any destination-specific requirements (e.g., vaccinations, passports, or visas).

4. Consider Travel & Wedding Insurance

Destination weddings come with unique challenges like weather disruptions, vendor changes, or travel delays. Wedding insurance can help protect your investment.

Let’s Make Your Wedding Plans Easy & Stress-Free!

Getting legally married in the U.S. before or after your destination wedding is a smart way to ensure your marriage is recognized without the extra hassle. Whether you need a quick legal license signing or a beautifully written wedding script, I’m here to help!

📩 Ready to chat? Contact me today to learn more about my services and how I can support your dream wedding.

📍 Based in Virginia | Serving Couples Nationwide

ALL PHOTOS IN THIS BLOG ARE BY KIR2BEN PHOTOGRAPHY

When planning your wedding, one of the most personal choices you’ll make is the type of ceremony that reflects your love and values. If you and your partner prefer a wedding that is not tied to religious traditions, you may be wondering: Can you have a non-religious wedding in Virginia? The answer is absolutely yes! A nonreligious wedding in Virginia allows couples to create a ceremony that is meaningful and personal without any religious affiliation.

Legal Requirements for Marriage in Virginia

Virginia has straightforward requirements for legal marriage, and religion does not play a role in these laws. To be legally married in Virginia, you must:

• Obtain a marriage license from any Virginia Circuit Court Clerk’s office. 

• Have your wedding officiated by an authorized officiant. This includes judges, court-appointed civil celebrants, and registered officiants, such as professional celebrants like myself.

• Have your officiant sign the marriage license and return it to the issuing clerk’s office.

Choosing a Non-Religious Ceremony

A nonreligious wedding officiant can help craft a ceremony that is as meaningful and heartfelt as any other. The key is making it personal and reflective of your love story. Here are some elements to consider:

1. The Officiant

Choosing the right officiant is crucial for setting the tone of your ceremony. As a professional celebrant and humanist, I specialize in creating custom, nonreligious wedding scripts that highlight your unique relationship, values, and vision for marriage. Humanism is rooted in the belief that we can create meaningful, ethical, and fulfilling lives guided by reason, compassion, and a deep respect for one another. A humanist ceremony is centered on the couple, their love, and their commitment to building a shared life based on mutual support and understanding.

2. The Ceremony Script

Unlike religious ceremonies that follow specific traditions and texts, a civil wedding ceremony is entirely customizable. You can include:

• Personal vows

• Readings from poetry, literature, or meaningful speeches

• Unity rituals such as a handfasting, cocktail/toasts, or something custom-made

• Involvement of family and friends in special roles

3. Location Flexibility

Virginia offers a variety of beautiful settings for your nonreligious wedding. Whether you dream of an outdoor ceremony in a scenic park, a historic estate, or even an intimate backyard gathering, you can choose any location that fits your vision. There are no restrictions requiring weddings to be held in religious venues.

Common Myths About Non-Religious Weddings

There are a few misconceptions about nonreligious weddings in Virginia that are important to clear up:

• Myth: You need a church or religious leader to officiate. Not true! Professional officiants like myself are legally authorized to conduct civil wedding ceremonies without any religious affiliation. My authorization is due to the fact that I am endorsed through the Humanist Society. 

• Myth: Non-religious weddings are impersonal. In reality, they can be deeply personal and even more meaningful since they are fully customized to reflect your relationship.

• Myth: You can’t include traditional elements. You can still incorporate elements like rings, vows, or cultural traditions without religious connotations.

Why Choose a Non-Religious Wedding?

Couples opt for a nonreligious wedding ceremony for many reasons, including:

• Having different religious or cultural backgrounds

• Identifying as secular or atheist

• Wanting a fully personalized civil wedding ceremony without traditional constraints

• Simply preferring a ceremony that focuses on love, commitment, and partnership rather than religious doctrine

• Valuing humanist principles that celebrate reason, compassion, and shared human experience

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering a nonreligious wedding in Virginia, rest assured that you have the freedom to create a ceremony that is legally recognized, deeply personal, and reflective of your love. As a nonreligious wedding officiant and humanist, I’m here to help craft and officiate a ceremony that feels right for you—one that tells your story in a way that is heartfelt, inclusive, and memorable.

If you’d like to learn more or start planning your civil wedding ceremony, contact me at Sincerely Pete to discuss how we can make your special day uniquely yours!

These two love birds spent the day with Liz and Ryan at Pine Valley Farms in the most picturesque holiday engagement shoot ever. Amanda’s spot on red outfits and Ryan surprising Amanda with their first married ornament created winter magic. We love that they used their engagement session to capture a sweet family tradition that I am sure will continue for years to come.

Liz and Ryan of Liz and Ryan Photography are Baltimore, Maryland based wedding and engagement photographers. They are high school sweethearts, parents, photographers, storytellers, and entrepreneurs! 

Liz and Ryan believe life is an adventure and look at their photography as a way to document that adventure in others. Their photography business specializes in photographing love and they have documented over 150 weddings in 14 states and 6 countries (and one Christmas tree farm).

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

One element of the wedding that was important to Beth and Mike was combining their two families’ traditions (her Jewish and his Arab) but not sticking to tradition just for tradition sake. They created a wedding that was truly them: their friends read Seven Wishes (in place of the traditional Jewish Seven Blessings) and Beth broke the glass at the end of the ceremony.

Lissa Ryan captured some amazing portraits of the couple at DC’s Spanish Steps with just a hint of the fall colors shinning through. Joy & Co carried that fall theme through the ceremony and reception with a gorgeous autumn color palette and can we talk about those dahlias! The night was topped off with an amazing dance party with friends and family that clearly care about this sweet couple.

Lissa of Lissa Ryan Photography is a Washington, DC based wedding and lifestyle photographer. After getting both her undergraduate and law degree from Georgetown University, Lissa realized that she needed a more creative and found her path with wedding and portrait photography.

Lissa captures moments with an artistic and editorial eye, creating timeless, beautiful portraits and stunning candids that will tell a story for generations to come.

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

Venue District Winery

Photography Olivia Jacob Photography

Videographer Paperboys

Floral Growing Wild Floral

Cake Fluffy Thoughts Cakes

DJ Scratch Weddings

Officiant With This Ring I Thee Wedd

Ceremony Music Sage String Quartet

Hair Total Babe Hair

Makeup Laura Henderson

Ceremony Sound Pike Productions

Transportation Fleet Transportation

Linens BBJ Linen

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

One December night after several years of dating, Mike planned a surprise proposal for Julie. While the two were cooking dinner Mike gave Julia a photo book with photos of the two of them together. The last page of the book featured a picture of Mike and the words “Will You Marry Me?”

As we are approaching Julie and Mike’s one year anniversary we are taking a peek back at their fall wedding celebration. The day started with a first look near the monuments with Olivia Jacob Photography (Mike’s reaction might be the cutest thing ever!). The two then headed over to District Winery for a touching and personal ceremony followed by an elegant but relaxed reception. Check back later this week for their wedding video - Mike’s vows are sweet enough to make anyone swoon.

Venue District Winery

Photography Olivia Jacob Photography

Videographer Paperboys

Floral Growing Wild Floral

Cake Fluffy Thoughts Cakes

DJ Scratch Weddings

Officiant With This Ring I Thee Wedd

Ceremony Music Sage String Quartet

Hair Total Babe Hair

Makeup Laura Henderson

Ceremony Sound Pike Productions

Transportation Fleet Transportation

Linens BBJ Linen

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

Happy Wedding Week to
Erica & Stephen! 

Tune in to Instagram Stories for behind-the-scenes looks this weekend. 

photo: Connor Studios

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

Amanda and Brian’s fall wedding was a classic and timeless celebration filled with prosecco (the couples’s beverage of choice). The two said their I dos at St. Louis Catholic Church and the celebration continued at St. Francis Hall. We love the perfect hint of vintage details throughout the day (we are looking at you The Dapper DJs and the gorgeous classic car). Thank you so much for allowing us to be a part of your celebration and we are wishing you years of happiness!

Church St. Louis Catholic Church

Reception Venue St. Francis Hall

Photography Liz and Ryan Photography

Catering Absolutely Perfect Catering

Cake Dandelion Cafe

Florist Herb Tree and Willow Oak Farm

Transportation Fleet Transportation and Vintage Limos

DJ The Dapper DJs

Hair & Makeup You Salon

Videographer Cork & Banner Films

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

Happy Wedding Week to
Christina & Kevin! 

Tune in to Instagram Stories for behind-the-scenes looks this weekend. 

photo: Procopio Photography

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

After a Memorial Day proposal on the dock of Maura’s parents beach place in Maryland these two got to planning their big day back in DC near Maura’s family. The celebration begin with a beautiful and traditional Catholic ceremony at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and continued with an elegant reception at the National Press Club.

One of the sweetest moments of the day was when Maura and Matt toasted Maura’s parents who had celebrated their 36th wedding anniversary a few days prior and played their first dance song. Not only did they get to share that special moment on Maura and Matt’s big day but will now get to celebrate their anniversaries together for years to come.

Church Immaculate Conception Catholic Church

Reception Venue National Press Club

Hair & Makeup Alison Harper & Company

Photographer Erin Tetterton Photography

Florist Love is...

Band Bachelor Boys Band

Rentals DaVinci Florist

Wedding Cakes Smith Island Cake

Getting Ready Location The Willard InterContinental

Brides Dress Sarah Janks via Lovely Bride

Grooms Suit Combatant Gentlemen

Bridesmaid Dresses Joanna August

Calligraphy Just Write Studio

Invitations Wedding Paper Divas

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

On October 24th, 2005, Kerilynn decided she had fallen for Nathan and let him know. But she really knew she had made the right choice about 2 weeks later when she had dropped by Nathan's dorm and noticed there was a date written on his door. When she asked him what that was all about, he said "it says Oct 24, 2005. The day we started officially dating." Cue the swooning!

Kerilynn and Nathan wed 12 years later at Curtis Farm in in southern New Hampshire's Monadnock region. We can't wait to share more of that gorgeous day! But in the meantime, check out their New Hampshire engagement session with the talented Stephanie Craig Photography! 

Stephanie Craig of Stephanie Craig Photography is a New England photographer. Stephanie lovingly photographs weddings and families all over New England.

Stephanie consistently prides herself on creating timeless imagery. She passionately and lovingly captures each and every client the way she would want her family, and loved ones photographed. She chooses to focus on the beauty in everyone, and her images reflect just that.

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

Rachel and Jonathan’s Longview Gallery fall wedding was a bright, cheery and colorful mix of ALL the shades of pink. The different tones from good old blush to rose, fuchsia and magenta perfectly complimented the blue gray accents in the invites, bridesmaids dresses and napkins. One of the highlights of the day and perks of having a fall wedding were the breathtaking dahlias by Petals by the Shore.

Lissa Ryan Photography captured the joy and love that surrounded Rachel and Jonathan all day so well and we are so happy for this sweet couple! Thank you for letting us be a part of your celebration!

Lissa of Lissa Ryan Photography is a Washington, DC based wedding and lifestyle photographer. After getting both her undergraduate and law degree from Georgetown University, Lissa realized that she needed a more creative and found her path with wedding and portrait photography.

Lissa captures moments with an artistic and editorial eye, creating timeless, beautiful portraits and stunning candids that will tell a story for generations to come.

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

Happy Wedding Week to
Jennifer & Bryan! 

Tune in to Instagram Stories for behind-the-scenes looks this weekend. 

photo: Adam Mason

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

Jonathan proposed to Rachel on a hiking trip in Vail, Colorado just about two years after their first date. Rachel knew that marriage was in the future but was totally shocked when he got down on one knee on the mountain. We loved helping Rachel and Jonathan execute their fall wedding at Longview Gallery and how cute are there Eastern Market engagement photos by the amazing Lissa Ryan Photography.

Lissa of Lissa Ryan Photography is a Washington, DC based wedding and lifestyle photographer. After getting both her undergraduate and law degree from Georgetown University, Lissa realized that she needed a more creative and found her path with wedding and portrait photography.

Lissa captures moments with an artistic and editorial eye, creating timeless, beautiful portraits and stunning candids that will tell a story for generations to come.

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information! 

#1 - Get creative. While registries in the past have been filled with household goods and everything you would need to establish a home with your new partner, you might not need those things. Get creative with your registry including options like charitable donations or experiences you can share together to create new memories as a married couple.

#2 - Provide variety. Variety with your registry is key. You’ll want to be sure you have options from different categories like household goods, hobby items and even travel necessities, from a couple different places at varying price points.

#3 - Think about the future. When creating your registry don’t just think about the items you need right now. Think about the things you’ll need when hosting the holidays for the first time or setting up the patio at your first home together. While you might not need them in this very moment, you’ll be grateful you have them after the big day.

#4 - Keep it fun. Your registry doesn’t only have to include things like bath towels and kitchen utensils. Add options like outdoor games, hobby items, or the tools you’d need to learn something new together.

#5 - Have more than one. People tend to buy the items on registries that they would want to receive themselves or was a favorite gift they received at their own wedding. Having more than one gives your guests plenty of options to find a gift they want to give you at their price point.

Photographer credit Mary Kate McKenna Photography

About Sincerely Pete

Sincerely Pete is a full-service wedding planning and design company in Washington, D.C. and Alexandria, VA who believes in a personal, curated & customized approach to each wedding couple we work with, taking their values & personalities into account and keeping the relationship as the focus of the wedding. We plan Washington DC weddings, Virginia weddings, Maryland weddings and destination weddings all over the world. 

modern & timeless. creative & curated. infused with meaning. implemented with love.

Contact us today for more information!