Wedding Resources, FAQs & Links

What are the legal requirements to get married in North Carolina?

The only set-in-stone legal requirements for a North Carolina wedding ceremony is that both people must consent to take each other “freely and seriously,” in the presence of two adult witnesses, and that an officiant (a minister or magistrate) be present to perform the ceremony. This declaration of consent must precede the minister (or officiant) or magistrate then declaring the couple some combination of “husband and wife,” using any terminology agreed upon by the couple. The rest of the ceremony is left to the discretion of the couple getting married and the minister. Couples are free to observe or not observe whichever religious and secular customs and rituals according to their own beliefs and personal preferences.

Where do I get a marriage license in Catawba County?

To obtain a marriage license in Catawba County, NC, you can visit the Catawba County Register of Deeds office. The Register of Deeds office is responsible for issuing marriage licenses to couples who wish to get married in the county. When applying for a marriage license, both partners must appear in person and provide identification, proof of age, and social security numbers. It’s recommended to contact the Catawba County Register of Deeds office beforehand to confirm the specific requirements and any additional documentation that may be needed.

Contact the Register of Deeds: (828) 465-1573 | 100 Government Drive, Department C, Newton, NC 28658

What are some locations for weddings in and near Hickory and Catawba County?

Moretz Mills
Address: 74 8th Street SE, Hickory, NC 28602
Website: http://moretzmills.com/

The Crossing at Hollar Mill
Address: 883 Highland Avenue SE, Hickory, NC 28602
Website: https://thecrossinghickory.com/

Rock Barn Country Club & Spa
Address: 3791 Clubhouse Drive NE, Conover, NC 28613
Website: https://www.rockbarn.com/

Lake Hickory Country Club
Address: 430 17th Avenue NW, Hickory, NC 28601
Website: https://www.lakehickorycc.com/

Carrigan Farms
Address: 1213 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28115
Website: https://www.carriganfarms.com/

Bakers Mountain Park
Address: 6680 Bakers Mountain Road, Hickory, NC 28602
Website: https://www.catawbacountync.gov/county-services/parks/bakers-mountain-park/

Hidden Hill Farm
Address: 8455 Hilderbrand Road, Hickory, NC 28602
Website: https://www.hiddenhillvenue.com/

Walnut Hill
Address: 6280 Gold Creek Road, Hickory, NC 28602
Website: https://www.walnuthillnc.com/

Henry River Mill Village
Address: 4255 Henry River Road, Hickory, NC 28602
Website: http://henryrivermillvillage.com/

Please note that it’s always a good idea to contact the venues directly for more information, availability, and to schedule a visit to explore the facilities in person.

Do you perform weddings in other parts of North Carolina?

Absolutely! I’m legally ordained in all 50 states, and I’m happy to travel to pretty much anywhere to help good folks get married. While I’m based in Hickory – I’m certainly portable. We’ll need to discuss travel and lodging arrangements, but I’m certainly open to the dialogue!

Do you have any issues with same sex marriages?

Absolutely not. I truly believe that love is love is love – and that anyone who wants to be married should and can be married. I do, however, obey all state and local laws. If your local jurisdiction doesn’t allow for a traditional and legal marriage, we can certainly talk about ceremonies that may not be legally binding – but are just as sincere, precious and lasting.