How to Officially Marry in Ontario:
A Step-by-Step Guide
HOW TO GUIDE:
Step 1
Marriage Licence
Couples are responsible for obtaining their marriage licence from a City Hall in Ontario. This licence will be provided to the officiant to complete and send for registration. Visit the Ministry of Ontario for the application and additional information on the requirements when picking it up.
Step 3
Get Inspired!
Consider exploring various resources and ideas to create a ceremony that reflects your style and love story. You can also seek inspiration from wedding-related blogs, pinterest, or by attending local events and talking to friends and family who have experience with weddings. Remember, this is your wedding! Be true to you!
Step 2
Vendors
Explore local vendors in your area. You have the flexibility to choose the vendors that resonate with your style and preferences. Remember that your wedding should reflect your unique love story, so take the time to explore. Be sure to read reviews to select the right vendors that suit your wedding!
Step 4
Marriage Certificate
After you've said I do! Once the officiant has mailed your licence, it's time to obtain your marriage certificate. Visit the Ministry of Ontario to access more information on the requirements for obtaining your marriage certificate. I recommend completing this process online.
Marriage Licence:
You need a Marriage Licence to become legally married. Pick up the licence from any City Hall in Ontario within 90 days of your ceremony. On the day of the ceremony, bring the licence to the officiant, who will guide you, your spouse, and two witnesses through the paperwork.
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To acquire a marriage licence, you'll need to present two pieces of government-issued identification for each person getting married, with one piece including a photo. Both of you don't need to be present to pick it up, but remember the ID!
Examples of such identification include government-issued birth certificates, valid passports, Canadian Citizenship Cards, valid driver’s licences, valid Ontario Photo Cards, and certificates of divorce. Note that healthcare cards and SIN cards do not qualify.
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Make sure to review the licence for accuracy before leaving City Hall.
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Ritual Samples:
If you wish to add a ritual of 'togetherness' to your ceremony to make it more engaging and enjoyable, here are some examples. These rituals can be added to include parents or children, or to create items that serve as reminders in your home.
Some examples include the Unity Candle or Sand, Water Ceremony, Breaking of the Glass, Blessing or Wish Stones, Ring Warming, Parental Honouring, Blended Family Ceremony, Wine Ceremony, and Tree (Sapling) Planting.
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Land Recognition Statement:
At the start of your wedding, you may ask to make a Land Recognition statement. We can work together to handcraft a land recognition if that is something you are interested in. I kindly request that you make a donation to an Indigenous program that supports reconciliation, such as the Indigenous Spirit Fund.
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Marriage Certificate:
After your marriage ceremony, you should contact the Registrar General to order your marriage certificate. Your certificate will be available after they receive and process your marriage licence.
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Ontario Name Change Process:
Decide whether you wish to change your last name after marriage. Ontario offers two options: assuming a new name or legally changing your name on your birth certificate.
Visit the Ministry of Ontario website for more details.