First comes Love, then comes marriage…  That is if you make it through the wedding planning!!

When we are young, we dream of what our wedding day will be.  Some of us may even act it out in dress up or with our Barbie dolls.  Yet, it isn’t until we grow up that we realize how much planning and preparation that beautiful day will take to make a reality.  Finding an officiant is just one of those difficult decisions that come in wedding planning. 

Whether you are looking for ceremonies in English or Spanish, same sex, interfaith, or just renewing your vows, I can help make your special day unforgettable.   I will work with couples to develop the wedding ceremony that best suits their personalities.  It will be my pleasure to be part of your special day!

You can email me at mcanalesctjp@sbcglobal.net

Getting Married in Connecticut

• In order to get married, you will need to obtain a marriage license from the town clerk in where the ceremony will be performed. 

• Town clerks no longer require pre-marital blood testing. 

• Please note that not all town halls issue their licenses on the same day.  Some town halls will have a waiting period.  Please call the town hall in question to make sure if there is a waiting period. 

• Both parties must appear at town hall in order to apply for the license.  They must provide identification proving that they are the parties wishing to be married.

• Fees for the license are usually around $30, with an additional fee if you require a copy of the filed wedding license.

• Couples do not have to reside in Connecticut in order to attain a marriage license in the state.

• Licenses are valid for 65 days from the date of application.  So please make sure to contact your officiant as soon as possible to book your wedding date.

• Applicants 18 and over do not require any parental consent.  Applicants ages 16-17 will require written consent from a parent or guardian in order to apply for the marriage license.  Applicants under 16 will require endorsement from the probate court judge.

• The application asks for your name, age, race, birthplace, residence and marital status. You must swear that the information is true.

• If you will be changing your name, contact your Social Security office (http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10002.html#identity) and Department of Motor Vehicle (http://www.ct.gov/dmv/cwp/view.asp?a=805&q=244738) to file all necessary paperwork.  Some of this can be done on line.  Please note that other organizations, may ask for a copy of your marriage certificate in order to change your name.

About your Justice of the Peace:

I am currently in the second term as a Justice of the Peace.  I speak fluent Spanish and English and have studied French.  Although my full time position is in finance, I enjoy working with couples to find the best way to make this day special.  I am honored when a couple selects me to be part of their special day.  For this reason, I try to make the ceremony fit all their needs.