On April 28, 2021, the TN senate passed bill 509 which authorized all Notaries Public to perform marriage ceremonies. Out of 50 states, only 6 allow notaries to solemnize marriages (we're special). And, it makes sense, seeing as how Notaries Public are state officials who are background checked, insured, bonded, and maintain official legal records.
Using a notary to solemnize your marriage makes it easy and simple to find someone to legalize your special day. If you are under the age of 18, you’ll have to go through different steps, but if you're over 18, continue reading. First, you’ll need to apply for a license online here. Next, you will go to the county clerk office with your partner. You’ll need to bring proof of your social security number and pay the marriage license fee of $99.50. However, you get a discount if you take the “Premarital Preparation Course” within a year of applying for the license. The county clerk will give you 3 documents: The Marriage License, The Marriage Certificate, and The Decorative Marriage License. Now, you just have to get them signed!
This is where our notary at Noble Nashville Notaries can help. You will have 30 days to get the documents signed before they expire. We have two packages for couples looking to make it official: the Short & Sweet and the Kiss & Tell packages (detailed here). We can drive to you or you can come to us at our beautiful conference room to seal the date. Bring a proper ID to start. Most people use their driver’s license. From there, we perform a brief ceremony, allow vows to be shared, and then pronounce you legally married. It’s all very lovely. Both short & sweet! The notary must sign the License and Certificate, but you have the choice when it comes to the Decorative License. Some people have it signed to commemorate the civil ceremony performed by the notary and some save it for their pastor/rabbi/etc. to sign it at the religious ceremony. It’s up to you, as it is your copy to frame, laminate, put on the fridge, etc.
The final step for you is to take the signed documents back to the county clerk office for recording. All done. Isn’t love grand? ❤︎