How to Plan a Las Vegas Elopement
Heck yeah you’re getting married!!! And heck yeah you’re saying buh-bye to all traditions to elope in the marriage capital of the world – Las Vegas!
Wedding became so commonplace in Vegas after Nevada passed a law making it super easy to get married quickly and cheaply. This law came in response to California’s Gin Marriage Law, that essentially wanted to prevent drunkards from falling in love at a bar and getting married.
okay but I fell in love at a bar. it worked out. soooo.
Anyway! So back in 1931, Nevada passed a law allowing for quickie weddings, requiring only photo ID and cash money. No blood test. No waiting. Ezpz.
So, you wanna say, “screw it,” and elope your way? Let’s do this thang.
1. Fill out the pre-application form on the Clark County website.
You can find that here. It’s pretty straightforward. You got this. You can do this up to 60 days ahead of the wedding ceremony. Keep in mind, this is not a mandatory part of eloping in Vegas, but it WILL save you a ton of time at the marriage bureau.
2. Head to the marriage bureau to pickup your license.
You can find it at 201 E. Clark Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89101. Their phone number is (702) 671-0600. Go together. Not only is it cute as hell to pick up your license together, but they need both of your identifications to give you the license. It costs $77, and you can pay with cash or card only.
3. Figure out where you want to have your ceremony.
Red Rock is a favorite. Mount Charleston is incredible. The Dry Lake Bed is always amazing.
(some of these require permits, so be sure to check before we show up)
OR let’s be super funky and host your elopement in the middle of the Strip!
You’ll also need an officiant to perform the ceremony. I have quite a few recommendations for this, as well as hair and makeup artists, too.
4. Find a photographer who genuinely cares about your elopement.
Hello. It me. I care. A lot. We’ll hang out for a few hours to cover you getting ready, your ceremony, and dope portraits around Vegas. I mean, pics or it didn’t happen, right? Might as well get a cool experience out of it.
5. Get married!!!
Honestly, the best part.