How to Get Married in Mississippi According to a Local Expert

With its bounty of southern charm, delectable soul food and lush landscapes complete with tranquil bayous, it's no wonder you've found yourself searching about how to get married in Mississippi. The Magnolia State is the perfect place to tie the knot and offers a bevy of picturesque settings and unique ways to customize your wedding.

"It goes without saying, our hospitality is second to none and we are deeply reverent of the traditions associated with weddings," notes Emily Sanders Taylor, a Mississippi-based wedding planner. With Taylor's help, we're diving into everything you need to know about getting married in Mississippi, including how to properly secure a Mississippi marriage license, the best times to get married and local pro tips.

Whether you envision exchanging vows under the shade of ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss, in a historic building loaded with southern beauty or saying "I do" with the serene Gulf Coast as your backdrop, Mississippi sets the stage for a truly magical wedding.

In the article:

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

How to Get a Marriage License in Mississippi

State of Mississippi marriage laws require you to bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport when applying for a marriage license. Both applicants must be present, and you'll also need to provide your Social Security numbers. If either party has been married before, proof of divorce, annulment or your late spouse's death certificate may also be required. Once you've applied there's no waiting period—you can walk out with your valid license.

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Do note that in most counties, you and your partner must appear in person to the county clerk rather than applying online. Both parties need to sign documents as well as present supporting documents, but since there is no waiting period, it's overall a pretty quick process.

Notable Wedding Locations in Mississippi

From Jackson to Monticello, you have your pick of Mississippi wedding venues. Whether you're drawn to modern event spaces, rustic barns or charming historic homes, the state offers something to match every couple's vision.

Decide whether you want to have your wedding inside or outside and then move to focus on where—the north and northwest part of the state boasts incredible rolling hills, while the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico provide beautiful waterfront backdrops.

Jackson

As Mississippi's capital, Jackson offers a fusion of southern charm and urban appeal. The city is home to historic venues, grand ballrooms and scenic parks perfect for ceremonies and receptions. Celebrated for its deep heritage of bluegrass music—and home to many iconic stars past and present—there is a little history behind every corner.

Biloxi

Tucked right along the scenic Gulf Coast, Biloxi is an idyllic setting for couples dreaming of a coastal wedding. The city offers waterfront venues, luxury resorts and scenic beaches for ceremonies and receptions. Consider incorporating Gulf Coast seafood into your menu or hosting a sunset ceremony by the water to highlight the area's natural beauty.

Natchez

Natchez is situated by the famous Mississippi River and is another picturesque wedding destination for those who want to incorporate waterfront views and the state's history into their big day. Couples can host their weddings in beautiful gardens, scenic riverfront venues or intimate event spaces. The town's serene atmosphere and unique character provide a truly memorable backdrop for your celebration.

Oxford

Home to the University of Mississippi, Oxford is a lively town with a vibe that's sophisticated and chill. It offers a diverse array of venues, including wow-worthy estates, dreamy gardens and urban settings. Note the vibrant arts and music scene, which lends a creative touch to any celebration.

Hattiesburg

Dubbed "Hub City," Hattiesburg is a conveniently central location with a mix of modern and rustic venues. Whether you have your heart set on a charming barn wedding or a luxe event space, the city has a little something for every style. A perk is the vibrant downtown area and nearby pine forests, which create a warm and inviting setting for both intimate and large celebrations.

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

Planning a wedding in Mississippi means embracing southern charm, rich traditions and a setting that's as warm and inviting as the people. Follow this guide to help you navigate everything from choosing a venue to infusing some local flair.

1. Set a Budget

One of the first steps to getting married in Mississippi is figuring out how much you plan to spend. Determine what areas you want to splurge on, where you can pull back, what vendors are non-negotiables and what you can eliminate. The Knot Budget Advisor is a great tool to help you figure out the cost of a marriage in Mississippi—it provides real data from couples who've recently been married in the area.

2. Choose Between an Indoor or Outdoor Wedding

Depending on what time of the year you're trying to get married in this state, you may want to weigh the pros and cons of an indoor versus outdoor wedding venue. It rains often and the weather can be a bit unpredictable. Try to find a place that's in a location you really love, suits your budget and fits all of the guests you want to invite.

The best times to get married in Mississippi are during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Once you know whether you're staying inside or going outside, you'll be able to narrow down all your options.

3. Check the Football Schedule

We're not joking. Football is big in the south, including Mississippi, and you don't want to accidentally schedule your nuptials on a big game day. "[You can start planning your wedding] as soon as the SEC football schedule for the following year drops," Taylor says with a laugh.

4. Stay Open to a "Strolling Ceremony"

If you are having your destination wedding in Mississippi, you'll need to familiarize yourself with strolling receptions. "Specific to the Deep South and Mississippi, we famously do not have seated dinners on the evening of the wedding," Taylor says. "A formal seated dinner will typically take place with the wedding party and family on the evening after the rehearsal. Following the wedding ceremony, mixing and mingling throughout the night with passed hors d'oeuvres and food stations gives way to a night on the dance floor led by a large live band!"

5. Secure Your Venue and Vendors

Once you have a few dates in mind, lock in your venue and start securing all your vendors. "We try to have all our vendors retained within the first few months after the engagement," Taylor says. This ensures you get your top choices and doesn't leave you scrambling at the last minute. Aim to have everything booked at least six to 12 months before your wedding day.

The Knot Vendor Marketplace gives you great options for vendors in your wedding destination. Mississippi is full of talented wedding vendors, including DJs, florists, cake bakers, caterers and much more.

6. Infuse Some Local Touches

If you're getting married in Mississippi, you definitely need to infuse the local flavor into your big day. Foodwise, you can serve dishes like Gulf Coast seafood, Mississippi mud pie or Southern comfort classics to treat your guests to a true taste of the state. Pair the menu with signature cocktails featuring regional favorites like sweet tea or bourbon to add a personal touch. Also consider live blues or jazz music, incorporating local crafts into your decor, or using Mississippi-grown flowers for your bouquets or table settings.