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 marriage equality law went into effect September 1, 2009.

Guidelines for Getting Married (PDF File)

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 and simple ceremony, 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 may 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. 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, hotel concierge or resort wedding coordinator can help you with the process. Most people who come here are surprised at how easy the marriage license process is.

What if we 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 also have a marriage license, you have to go through the same process as someone who is getting married for the first time. Some couples choose to have both, because some states recognize civil unions while others only recognize civil marriage.

Vermont: A Small State with a Big Heart.
We may be a small state, but we warmly welcome our LGBT friends and family. Since 2000, Vermont has been a champion for marriage equality. Let us help you create that memorable celebration. Contact any of our members and start planning your wedding.

For more information on getting married in Vermont, download the State's document:
click here to download pdf.

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

Be sure to check the Lodging page and Restaurants page to find the perfect venue for your gay wedding.