LGBTQ+ Elopement & Marriage Services in New Jersey
Love is Love
I proudly work with LGBTQ+ couples across New Jersey who want their marriage handled properly, respectfully, and without assumptions.
Whether you are planning a private elopement, need your marriage license signed and processed, or require a Certified Marriage Certificate quickly, my role is to make sure everything is completed correctly and in full compliance with New Jersey requirements.
I am Aretha Gaskin, a New Jersey elopement officiant and Certified Municipal Registrar based in Union County. I work with couples statewide and regularly assist LGBTQ+ couples who need clear guidance, accurate paperwork handling, and a process that feels calm and straightforward.
Services for LGBTQ+ Couples in New Jersey
LGBTQ+ couples book my services for many reasons. Some want a quiet, private elopement. Others need a legal marriage completed quickly for immigration, benefits, or personal reasons. Some simply want the process handled correctly without confusion or extra steps.
I offer the following services for LGBTQ+ couples:
Elopement officiation for couples who want to exchange vows privately or with a small group
Marriage license signing and proper filing for couples who do not want a full ceremony
Same-day Certified Marriage Certificate coordination on weekdays during municipal business hours
Witness services provided when needed
Registrar coordination so couples do not need to schedule or manage appointments themselves
All couples are eligible for same-day Certified Marriage Certificate services when married on a weekday during municipal operating hours.
How LGBTQ+ Elopements Work in New Jersey
New Jersey follows a specific legal process. This is how it works when you book with me:
1. Hire Your Officiant First
In New Jersey, an officiant must be secured before a marriage license can be issued. Municipal registrars require officiant information on file before releasing a license.
Important: Please do not list my name or business name on your marriage license application unless you have officially booked me as your officiant. Once booked, I provide the exact information you need so your application is completed correctly and without delays.
2. Apply for Your Marriage License
You apply with one witness present. The license has a mandatory 72-hour waiting period before the marriage can take place.
3. Get Married
We meet on your scheduled date. I officiate your marriage or complete your license signing, and your witnesses sign as required by law.
In New Jersey:
One witness is required when applying for the license
Two witnesses are required on the day of marriage
If you do not have witnesses, I can provide them for an additional fee.
4. License Submission and Certificate Processing
I complete and submit your marriage license to the appropriate registrar. If same-day Certified Marriage Certificate service is requested, I coordinate directly with the registrar so everything is handled properly.
Same-Day Certified Marriage Certificates
Many LGBTQ+ couples need proof of marriage quickly for immigration filings, benefits enrollment, insurance, or legal documentation.
When married on a weekday during municipal business hours, couples may receive their Certified Marriage Certificate the same day. I handle the coordination with the registrar so you do not need to schedule or manage this yourself.
Registrar fees for certified copies are paid directly to the municipality. I always recommend obtaining at least two certified copies, though some couples choose more depending on their needs.
Why LGBTQ+ Couples Choose This Service
LGBTQ+ couples often choose my services because they want:
A legally valid marriage completed correctly the first time
Clear, direct communication without assumptions
Accurate handling of marriage licenses and certificates
Witnesses provided when needed
Same-day Certified Marriage Certificate coordination without added stress
As a Certified Municipal Registrar, I bring a deeper understanding of New Jersey marriage documentation and municipal procedures, which is especially important for couples working within tight timelines.
Union County Based, Serving All of New Jersey Service
I am based in Union County and regularly work with registrars throughout the state. Each municipality operates differently, which is why local experience matters.
Couples from outside New Jersey, out of state, or overseas often book my services because they want the process explained clearly and handled correctly from the start.
Start the Process
The first step is completing the elopement inquiry form.
Once submitted, I personally review your information. If I am available for your date and location, I follow up promptly by text to confirm next steps.
Booking is straightforward. Once secured, your marriage process is guided clearly, legally, and professionally.
