Elopement FAQs

Everything you need to review before booking.

CONSULTATION

Thanks for reaching out!

If you are on this page, it means that I’m available on your date/time and would love to work with you!

Please schedule a consultation only when you are prepared to move forward with securing services.

Meetings with me are not intended for preliminary browsing or general pricing inquiries.

  • How it works from first contact to “I do.”

    You start by submitting my consultation form.

    If I am available on your date/time you’ll receive an immediate text from me.

    You’ll then read this FAQ page and if you’d like to move forward, you’ll let me know, make your payment and I’ll secure your date/time.

    Once your payment is made and your date is secured, I guide you through the entire elopement process from license to certified marriage certificate.

    Please schedule a consultation only when you are prepared to move forward with securing services. Meetings are not intended for preliminary browsing or general pricing inquiries.

  • Should We Just Elope at the Courthouse?

    That decision is entirely yours. However, many of my couples choose NOT to elope at the courthouse because it is a transactional, high-traffic environment designed for official business, not meaningful celebrations.

    Just because you may be eloping with only a few people does not mean your day cannot be memorable or magical.

    Your elopement should still feel intentional, personal and reflective of your love story.

    From scenic outdoor spaces to intimate private locations, your elopement options are truly endless. You can view real examples in my elopement portfolio.

  • How do we obtain our marriage license?

    In New Jersey, you must apply for your marriage license in the municipality where either you or your fiancé resides.

    You will need to bring a witness, valid identification and pay the municipality’s required fee.

    Many offices require appointments, so do not show up without confirming their process first.

    You may only list my name as your officiant after you have officially booked my services.

    Using my name without booking constitutes a fraudulent application.

    Once your payment is made and your date is secured, I will guide you through the licensing process as needed.

  • How do we receive our Certified Marriage Certificate?

    Your Certified Marriage Certificate (not to be confused with your Marriage License) is applied for after your ceremony is completed and your license is submitted to the Registrar by me for processing.

    As a Certified Municipal Registrar, I offer expedited, same-day Certified Marriage Certificate processing at no additional service fee.

    In New Jersey, a nominal Registrar fee applies per certified copy, and I strongly recommend ordering at least two certified copies for your records.

  • I offer expedited, same-day Certified Marriage Certificate services for couples who need their certificate quickly for immigration, legal, or other time-sensitive purposes.

    There is no additional fee for this service and it is handled efficiently, accurately, and in full compliance with New Jersey requirements, so you leave your wedding day with one less thing to worry about.

  • Where do you perform elopements?

    I officiate elopements throughout NJ, NYC and PA.

    Depending on your elopement location, travel fees may apply.

    You are welcome to view my elopement portfolio or use Google for location ideas.

    Location recommendations are provided to booked clients only.

    Please do not request a list of elopement locations unless you have officially secured my services.

    Once you are booked, I am happy to discuss and recommend locations that align with your vision.

  • Do we need witnesses and can you provide them?

    Yes. New Jersey requires ONE witness when applying for your marriage license and TWO witnesses on your elopement day.

    You may bring your own witnesses, or I can provide witnesses for an additional fee of $50 per witness.

    Witness services are not complimentary and must be requested in advance.

  • What is the cost for your elopement services?

    I offer two elopement options:

    Additional services, travel, and add-ons are priced separately.

  • Your non-refundable full payment is required to secure your date and time.

    Payment is accepted via Zelle (908-525-8913).

    No date is held without payment.

  • Do you provide vendor recommendations?

    Yes. I have trusted vendors that I’ve worked with for over a decade. 

    This service is reserved for booked clients only and are not available for general consultation purposes.

  • How many guests are allowed at an elopement?

    Elopements are intentionally intimate.

    Guest limits depend on your location and selected service.

    If you are planning a traditional wedding with a larger guest list, those services fall under my wedding ceremony services, not elopements.

  • Why work with Aretha?

    I am a Certified Municipal Registrar, professional Wedding Officiant, and nationally recognized elopement expert.

    I have served thousands of couples from around the world and maintain hundreds of verified five-star reviews across Google, The Knot, WeddingWire and beyond.

    My reputation is built on precision, professionalism and results. I encourage you to read my reviews before reaching out.