ASK THE EXPERT: How Can a Friend Or Family Member Legally Marry Us in Pennsylvania?

Hemera

Q: We want my fiancé’s brother to marry us, but what do we need to know about getting him ordained to make sure it’s all legit and official? We’ve heard there are a lot of variations in the rules in different counties and towns in Pennsylvania.

A: Good news: The solution here is actually a lot less complicated than you might think. “You will simply need to obtain a self-uniting marriage license,” says Jennifer Hendler, whose Philly-based business, Intentional Weddings, offers officiant services and pre- and post-marriage counseling.

Easily procured at your city clerk’s office just like any marriage license, it allows you to wed without an officiant present, which means a layperson can perform your ceremony and your guests can serve as legal witnesses. It’s recognized in all counties. “We have entered an age of custom-designed weddings,” says Hendler, “and this allows you to create the ceremony that perfectly fits with who you are.”

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