So, You Want To Get Married? Vermont is the place!

Vermont has been a leader in the fight for gay and lesbian civil rights. In 2000, Vermont was the first state to pass a civil union law. In 2009, it became the fourth state to establish gay marriage and the first one to do it by legislative vote rather than having it decreed by judicial order.

Our new gay marriage law goes into effect September 1, 2009. Civil unions will continue to be offered until that time.

We’ll make your ceremony perfect.

We’ll make your special day truly memorable. Vermont has always been a great destination for adventurers, romantics, and anyone looking for fresh air and picturesque New England villages.

Whether you want an intimate simple ceremony for you and your beloved, or an extravagant event with several hundred of your closest friends, we provide all the services and products you’ll need. The members of the Vermont Gay Tourism Association can help with every aspect from finding picturesque locations to working with caterers, florists, musicians and finding just the right officiant.

What do we need to do?

The process is simple. You’ll need to apply for a marriage license at a local Town Clerk’s office which you can do when you arrive here. You will fill out a simple, one page form with your name, address, parents' names, etc. If either of you have ever been married, be sure to bring a copy of your divorce decree. You will pay a $45 fee and get your wedding application. An additional fee of $10 will be charged by the Town Clerk if you would like a certified copy for your records. After your ceremony, your officiant will sign the license and send it back to the Town Clerk who will then mail you a copy of the state marriage license certificate with Vermont state seal if you paid the extra $10 fee. It usually takes about a week or two to receive the certificate.

According to Vermont law, both of you must be at least 18 years of age. There is no waiting period, no blood tests, and no witnesses required. Your innkeeper can help you with the process. Most people who come here are surprised at how easy the marriage process is.

What if I don't want to wait until September 1? Can I still get a civil union before then?

Yes, Vermont will continue issuing civil union licenses until August 31. Vermont's civil union law is a set of laws parallel to the state’s marriage laws. It provides same sex couples all the state-level protections, benefits and responsibilities of the state’s marriage laws. See the Vermont Secretary of State’s website for more information: http://www.sec.state.vt.us/Marriage_Equality_FAQs.pdf

What if I already had a civil union in Vermont?

Your civil union stays in effect forever and if you want to keep it, you don't have to do anything. But if you would like to switch to a marriage, you have to go through the same process as someone who is getting married for the first time.

Vermont’s arms are wide open.

You are not just tolerated here, you are warmly welcomed. For nine years, Vermont has actively invited gay and lesbian couples to celebrate and formalize their loving relationship here. On September 1, 2009, Vermont will take the final step in recognizing and honoring "equal love, equal rights."

If you dream it, we’ll make it a reality!

Photos By David Garten