How to Get Married in Sonoma County

Here are the steps to follow for how to get married in Sonoma County-

Important information to note-

Marriage licenses are valid for 90-days from the date of issuance. Once expired, you will need to reapply.


How much does this all cost?


General/Public Marriage License- $82

Marriage can be performed anywhere in California

One witness is required


Confidential Marriage License- $98

Parties must be living together as spouses, and must be at least 18 years old.

Marriage can be performed anywhere in California

No witnesses required

Please email marriage@sonoma-county.org for more information.



Insider Tips-

*Under normal circumstances, you can get you marriage license and have the ceremony performed in the same place. The Santa Rosa Clerk-Recorders office has a small room inside the building where most ceremonies are done, but there is also a small outdoor area that is amazing (and somewhat hidden). It really is worth asking for your ceremony to be performed there if you want a more picturesque view!

*Want a friend or family member to perform the ceremony? Have them get ordained through Universal Life Church!

santa rosa courthouse wedding outside.jpg


How much does it cost to hire you to photograph our weekday ceremony and some portraits afterwards?

Courthouse/Private ceremonies in Sonoma County- $525

(this includes 1 hour of coverage, a few sneak peeks same day, and a full gallery of images within 2 weeks!)

If you are getting married outside of Sonoma County, please send me a message, including the location/town you are getting married at for an updated quote.