So it looks like, based on Congresses schedule(because DC is not a state, Congress has to approve everything, oh taxation without representation), gay marriage will go into effect March 2. But this does not mean couples can get married March 2. DC has a three day waiting period before issuing licenses. And then if you want a civil ceremony- meaning you don’t want to find an officiant- you have to schedule with DC a date that is at least 10 days away from your application.
So what I’m reading is- at the very very earliest- if you want to get married in the courthouse without an officiant, you will have to wait till March 12th?
So are there going to be hoards of excited gay couples flocking to the Moultrie Courthouse on March 2? But they will be walking away empty handed only to have to come *back* to Moultrie Courthouse 3 days later to get a license(you could get it by mail but that seems so sad)? But no one will legally marry them at the courthouse then(you have to wait 10 days) but you *could* bring in an officiant and get married there?
My mind is trying to figure this all out. But I’m sure we will be hearing more as the date approaches.
As a wedding planner in DC, I provide marriage license information for clients on a regular basis and you are correct that there is a waiting period for all couples wanting to get married in DC. Couples need to go in, apply for a license and pay the appropriate fees and then return to pick up the license after the waiting period passes. As 3 full days must pass, it really ends up being a 5 day waiting period (you apply on Day 1, wait during Days 2-4, and pick up on Day 5). Hope that provides some clarification!
I am from MD and my fiance Nette is from DC. We are so happy about this. We plan to have have our wedding in MD, go to Vegas for the honeymoon, and then come back to DC to make it official, official. We are all set to file the paperwork and our honeymoon will be a great “distraction” as we go through the waiting period. I am just so giggly about the whole thing!