Hi, I’m Jay Soriano, I’m a destination elopement, portrait and headshot photographer and I’m going to help you with planning your Las Vegas elopement!
But this isn’t a veiled pitch, as a matter of fact, most chapels (which 90%+ of people will opt for) have their own dedicated photographer. And while I love and currently reside in Las Vegas, I skew towards shooting destination elopements (here’s one in Hawaii):
Las Vegas is known as the “Wedding Capital of the World,” and for good reason. With its iconic chapels, luxurious resorts, and endless entertainment options, it’s no surprise that many couples choose to elope in this vibrant city. But with so many options to choose from, planning an elopement in Las Vegas can be overwhelming. In this definitive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect elopement in Sin City, from choosing a venue to obtaining your marriage license. So whether you’re looking for a quick and easy ceremony or a more elaborate affair, we’ve got you covered.
You can do it cheap, or you can do it lavishly, the choice is up to you.
How to Get Married in Las Vegas – The Official Guide from the City of Las Vegas
Start here for the latest information. In short, there are 4-steps:
- Apply for a Marriage License – Your application will be good for 1-year
- Pickup your Marriage License – $102 fee
- Say, “I do!” – State your vows in front of at least one witness (other than the officiant)
- Show the world that you are married! – $20 for certified copy of marriage certificate
Planning Your Elopement in Las Vegas
Set your date and budget
Congratulations on deciding to get married in Las Vegas! Setting your date and budget is the first step in planning your dream elopement in the Wedding Capital of the World. Whether you’re looking for a traditional wedding chapel ceremony, a luxurious resort wedding, or a unique outdoor location, Las Vegas has it all.
Important Note: I have no affiliations to any wedding chapels.
I’d start with a Google search on Vegas Wedding Chapels, but do we aware that a lot of the packages have hidden fees. Before completing the booking, be sure to ask about any hidden fees that aren’t listed on the website.
But before you start browsing venues and packages, take some time to think about what you want your elopement to look and feel like. It could be super simple, it can also be a little elaborate with a beautiful location, ponies, and a fancy bounce house (as shown above). Do you want a simple and intimate ceremony or a grand affair with all the bells and whistles? How many guests do you want to invite, if any? And most importantly, what is your budget? By setting these key details upfront, you’ll be able to narrow down your options and focus on the venues and packages that truly fit your vision and budget. So take a deep breath, envision your perfect Las Vegas elopement, and let’s get planning!
Pick a team to help make your day go smoothly
If you’re skewing towards having a more elaborate elopement, having the right team on your special day can make all the difference. This is especially important if you’re planning your elopement from afar or have never been to Las Vegas before. But don’t worry – there are plenty of experienced professionals in the city who specialize in elopements and can help you create the perfect day.
Start by choosing a wedding planner who understands your vision and can handle all the logistics, from booking the venue and officiant to arranging transportation and accommodations. They can also help you find other vendors, such as photographers, florists, and hairstylists.
Another option is to book an all-inclusive elopement package from a good venue or wedding chapel. These packages typically include everything you need for your ceremony and may also include extras like photography, flowers, and even a limousine.
No matter which route you choose, be sure to do your research and read reviews from other couples who have used their services. And don’t be afraid to ask questions and voice your concerns – your team is there to make your day as stress-free and memorable as possible.
Go through the legalities
When eloping in Las Vegas, going through the legalities may not be the most glamorous part of the process, but it’s a crucial step to ensure that your marriage is legal and recognized. Luckily, Las Vegas has some of the most relaxed marriage laws in the country, making it quick and easy to obtain a marriage license.
To get your marriage license in Las Vegas, both you and your partner will need to appear in person at the Clark County Marriage Bureau, located in downtown Las Vegas. You’ll need to bring a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, and pay a fee (currently $102). The process typically takes less than an hour, and you’ll receive your marriage license the same day.
Here are their details:
Marriage License Bureau
201 E. Clark Avenue
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 671-0600
7 days per week, 8 a.m. – midnight
(open all holidays, no exceptions)
Keep in mind that there’s no waiting period in Las Vegas, so you can get married as soon as you have your license. Remember though, that your marriage license is only valid for one year, so make sure to plan your elopement accordingly.
Once you have your marriage license, you’ll need to find an officiant to perform your ceremony. This can be a religious figure, such as a priest or rabbi, or a non-religious officiant, such as a wedding planner or a justice of the peace. Many wedding chapels and venues in Las Vegas offer officiant services as part of their packages, so be sure to ask about this when booking your venue.
Note: Couples are required to bring their Las Vegas-issued marriage license with them on the day of their wedding. No minister (not even Elvis) can perform a ceremony without a valid Clark County license present on the day.
Best Locations to Elope in Las Vegas
You’ll be amazed at how diverse the options are. From wedding chapels, vintage museums, incredible red rock vistas, your elopement in Las Vegas will be nothing short of beautiful, memorable, and meaningful. Let’s show you the possibilities.
A Little White Chapel
The Little White Chapel in Las Vegas is a charming and iconic wedding venue that has been a part of the city’s wedding scene for over 70 years. Located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas, the chapel is easily recognizable by its quaint white exterior and old-fashioned bell tower.
Inside, the chapel is decorated with elegant floral arrangements, chandeliers, and stained glass windows, creating a romantic and intimate ambiance. One of the chapel’s most popular features is the Tunnel of Love Drive-Thru, where couples can exchange vows from the comfort of their car. This unique experience has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows and is perfect for couples looking for a fun and unconventional elopement.
The Little White Chapel has hosted countless celebrity weddings, including Frank Sinatra, Michael Jordan, and Britney Spears, adding to its allure and charm. But whether you’re a celebrity or not, the chapel welcomes all couples with open arms and strives to make your wedding day as special and memorable as possible.
Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon’s awe-inspiring beauty and natural charm make it a perfect location for a unique and unforgettable wedding experience. Its stunning red rock formations, sweeping vistas, and rugged canyons offer the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Red Rock Canyon offers several picturesque locations for wedding ceremonies and receptions, including the Red Spring Boardwalk and the Red Rock Overlook. These locations provide a breathtaking natural setting and can accommodate wedding parties of various sizes.
Imagine exchanging vows under a towering red rock formation, surrounded by the serene beauty of the canyon. As the sun sets, the canyon’s warm red hues will create a romantic ambiance, and the stars will twinkle above, providing a dreamy setting for you and your partner.
Valley of Fire State Park
The moment you enter the park, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the red rock formations and the peaceful surroundings. The park’s natural beauty creates a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic wedding.
Located just an hour outside of Las Vegas, this park offers stunning red sandstone formations and a beautiful desert landscape. The park has several options to choose from, including picnic areas, pavilions, and campsites.
Of course, as an outdoor wedding venue, it’s important to be prepared for the weather. Summers in Nevada can be quite hot, so you’ll want to plan accordingly and make sure you and your guests stay hydrated and comfortable. But the payoff will be worth it.
If you’re considering the Valley of Fire State Park as your wedding venue, keep in mind that weddings held in the park require a permit, and there are regulations to follow. It’s important to work closely with the park staff to ensure that your wedding meets all of the necessary requirements.
Cactus Joe’s Nursery
If you’re looking for a unique and memorable elopement venue in Las Vegas, look no further than Cactus Joe’s Nursery. This charming and eclectic destination is perfect for couples who love all things desert-related. The nursery is nestled among towering cacti and other desert plants. Also, one of the highlights of getting married at Cactus Joe’s Nursery is the flexibility and creativity it allows. Since the nursery is a blank canvas, you have the freedom to decorate and personalize the space to your heart’s content.
With its expert staff and natural beauty, your desert-themed elopement will be surely unforgettable.
Neon Museum
If you’re planning an elopement in Las Vegas and looking for a venue that’s full of history and character, the Neon Museum is the perfect choice.
Being a non-profit organization, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the iconic neon signs that once lit up the streets of Las Vegas. The museum’s outdoor Boneyard is filled with over 200 historic signs, including those from some of the city’s most famous hotels and casinos. These colorful and whimsical signs create a vibrant setting for your elopement, and provide the perfect opportunity for unique and memorable photos.
One of the benefits of eloping at the Neon Museum is the flexibility it offers. The Boneyard can accommodate intimate ceremonies with just the two of you, or larger celebrations with a few guests. The museum also offers a variety of elopement packages that include everything from an officiant and photographer to flowers and champagne.
And because the Neon Museum is a non-profit organization, choosing it as your elopement venue is also a way to support a great cause. Your rental fees and donations help to support the museum’s ongoing efforts to preserve and showcase Las Vegas’ iconic neon heritage for future generations. So why not say “I do” among the neon lights and historic charm of the Neon Museum?
Fountains of Bellagio
The Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas is the perfect venue for a fairytale wedding. With over a thousand fountains that shoot water up to 460 feet high in the air, the fountains are choreographed to a range of music, from classical to contemporary, and create a stunning display that is sure to leave you and your guests in awe.
With its stunning backdrop, exceptional service, and luxurious surroundings, it’s the perfect place to celebrate your love and start your new life together.
Floyd Lamb State Park
Imagine exchanging your vows in front of a tranquil lake, surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, one would really feel a sense of peace and tranquility never experienced before. The sound of the water lapping at the shore and the gentle rustling of the leaves in the wind create a serene and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for an intimate elopement.
The park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and celebrate your love in a serene and natural setting that you can treasure forever.
We hope that we have provided you with all the information and inspiration you need to plan your perfect elopement in this vibrant and exciting city! Whatever your vision for your elopement, we encourage you to embrace the spirit of Vegas and create a celebration that truly reflects your love and your personalities. It’s your wedding after all.
Until then, congratulations on your upcoming elopement, and we wish you all the love and happiness in the world!