How to Get Married in Massachusetts and What to Know About Planning in the State

Want to know how to get married in Massachusetts? Whether you're a visitor or a local to the Bay State, tying the knot is a relatively easy, yet extremely rewarding process. "Massachusetts is not only rich in history and natural beauty but also offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all couples," notes Massachusetts-based wedding planner Samantha Curtis of Sarue Event Design. "As the first state to legalize same-sex marriage, it holds a special place in the history of marriage equality, embodying a deep commitment to love, acceptance and the protection of fundamental rights." The state has a diverse number of locations for your nuptials from courthouses across the region to beautiful historic venues and beautiful outdoor backdrops.

Ahead, we break down everything you need to know about getting married in Massachusetts, as well as a step-by-step guide to planning your nuptials in the state.

In this article:

• How to Get a Marriage License in Massachusetts
• Notable Wedding Locations in Massachusetts
• How to Plan a Wedding in Massachusetts Step-by-Step

How to Get a Marriage License in Massachusetts

In order to get a marriage license in Massachusetts, you're going to need to follow some important steps. It's important to time this task in your planning timeline properly in order to get legally married on the day of your wedding. Curtis advises, "Massachusetts enforces a mandatory three-day waiting period after you file your paperwork before the license can be issued, so couples should plan accordingly to avoid any last-minute stress."

In order to get a Massachusetts wedding license, both partners must be present during a visit to a city or town clerk's office. "During this visit, you'll complete a Notice of Intention of Marriage form and provide a few essentials," Curtis says. These include proof of age and identity that can be verified with a valid driver's license, state ID, passport or certified birth certificate. In some cases, you may need to provide your social security card. You also will need to pay an application fee. Curtis adds, "The fee varies by location, typically ranging from $4 to $60, so it's best to check ahead with the specific clerk's office for the exact cost and payment options."

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

Notable Wedding Locations in Massachusetts

Finding a Massachusetts wedding venue isn't tough in such a beautiful state with many diverse landscapes from mountains to city to coastline. Read ahead to see some favorite destinations for nuptials in the New England region.

Boston

As one of the oldest and most storied cities in the country, Boston is an obvious choice for a marriage in Massachusetts. There's quite a variety of venues from historic locations to elegant hotels to host your nuptials. Curtis personally loves The Newbury for a Boston wedding. "Located just steps from the iconic Public Garden, The Newbury offers an unparalleled setting in the heart of the city, making it an ideal backdrop for a quintessentially Boston celebration. Couples can choose from several ballroom event spaces, each with exquisite architectural details, abundant natural light and views that reflect the charm of the surrounding city. On-site accommodations ensure convenience and comfort for guests, while the hotel's exceptional catering provides a refined culinary experience tailored to the occasion. After the celebration, guests can simply take the elevator up to Contessa, the hotel's stunning rooftop restaurant. Led by the renowned team behind Carbone and meticulously designed by Ken Fulk, Contessa offers an elevated experience with sweeping views of the Boston skyline, making it the perfect place to continue the celebration or enjoy a post-wedding brunch."

Boylston

Looking for a great garden wedding venue? "Located just 45 minutes from Boston, the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston is a hidden gem among Massachusetts wedding venues," Curtis shares. "This sprawling 200-acre property offers a captivating blend of meticulously curated gardens, serene woodlands and breathtaking views of Mount Wachusett and the Wachusett Reservoir. The venue's romantic architecture and abundant natural light create an enchanting setting, perfect for couples seeking a nature-inspired celebration with timeless elegance."

Cape Cod

The charming coastal region of Cape Cod is a dreamy place to tie the knot. "Pelham House Resort is the quintessential Cape Cod wedding venue combining coastal charm with modern elegance," Curtis says. "What truly sets Pelham House Resort apart is its ability to offer resort exclusivity for wedding weekends. This distinctive feature allows couples and their guests to enjoy a fully immersive experience, with the entire property dedicated to their celebration. The venue's team embraces collaboration and creativity with vendors, offering the flexibility to transform each space to align seamlessly with our design vision."

Ipswich

Looking for Gilded Age elegance? Head up north to The Crane Estate on Castle Hill in Ipswich. "The Crane Estate is the most notable historic estate wedding venue in Massachusetts because of its unmatched grandeur, rich history and breathtaking natural surroundings. Perched atop a hill in Ipswich, the estate spans over 2,100 acres of rolling landscapes, with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, salt marshes and pristine beaches," Curtis shares. "At its heart is the Great House, a stunning 1920s mansion that exudes Gilded Age elegance, offering an extraordinary backdrop for weddings with its stately architecture, ornate details and timeless charm. Couples can host ceremonies on the Grand Allée, a dramatic, tree-lined lawn stretching to the ocean, or opt for more intimate spaces like the Italian-style gardens or rustic barn."

How to Plan a Wedding in Massachusetts Step-by-Step

Not sure all the nuances you should know to plan a wedding in the Bay State? Check out a few important steps to get married in Massachusetts so you can create the celebration of your dreams.

1. Set a Budget

One of the first places to get started on your wedding planning journey is your budget. Once you have an idea of how much you have available to spend on your celebration, you can begin curating a vision that works within your budget. Need some help creating estimates of what your wedding could cost in the state? Check out The Knot Budget Advisor to get proper predictions of those numbers.

2. Book a Venue and Vendors

"Massachusetts, especially popular regions like Cape Cod, Boston and the Berkshires, has a high demand for venues," Curtis says. "Book your ceremony and reception space and key vendors at least 12 to 18 months in advance, especially if you're planning a summer or fall wedding." To get started on your search for both locations and a wedding team, check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find local options that fit your budget and style.

3. Be Mindful of Historical Venue Restrictions

"Massachusetts is home to countless historical wedding venues that exude unmatched charm and character. However, these cherished locations often come with unique considerations," Curtis shares. "Strict preservation guidelines are in place to protect their timeless architecture and grounds, which may influence decor choices, vendor setups and event logistics—such as limitations on hanging installations, open flames or heavy equipment. Understanding these restrictions in advance ensures that your wedding vision aligns seamlessly with the venue's requirements while honoring its historical significance."

4. Invite Your Guests

Once you secure your venue, it's time to finalize your guest list and send out those invitations. It's best to first send a save-the-date at least six months in advance of your celebration, then follow up with a proper wedding invitation as you draw closer to the event so your guests can RSVP and you can tally your final guest count in time.

5. Consider the Weather

"Massachusetts weather is famously unpredictable, especially in coastal areas like Nantucket, where conditions can shift dramatically within hours," Curtis says. "If you're planning an outdoor wedding, it's essential to have a solid Plan B—and even a Plan C—in place. Whether it's sudden fog rolling in, a passing rain shower or unexpected wind off the water, being prepared with covered spaces, tents or an indoor alternative will ensure your day runs smoothly, no matter what Mother Nature brings."