Getting started

If you're about to start planning the wedding of your dreams and have absolutely no idea where to begin, here's a few things that'll help you get started.

1. Make your checklist

6-12 months prior
  • Choose your wedding date and time
  • Select the type of wedding you will have
  • Discuss your budget and who will pay for what
  • Consider hiring a wedding coordinator
  • Make arrangements with a religious officiator
  • Select wedding and reception locations
  • Select bridesmaids, best men and other roles
  • Place engagement announcements in local newspapers
  • Choose your wedding dress, veil and other accessories
  • Select a photographer, videographer, caterer, florist and D.J.
  • Discuss the guest list
  • Discuss honeymoon and make reservations
  • Arrange for time off work
4-6 months prior
  • Start bridal registries at your favorite stores
  • Order dresses, tuxedos, shoes and accessories
  • Order invitations
  • Select a color scheme
  • Parents should select attire
2-4 months prior 
  • Select and order wedding bands
  • Order wedding cake
  • Check state and county marriage license requirements and obtain marriage license
  • Plan meny for reception
  • Choose reception music or entertainment
  • Complete guest list and send invitations
  • Arrange for lodging for out of town guests
  • Purchase gifts for the wedding party
  • Make reception seating chart if necessary 1 Month Prior
  • Review all arrangements
  • Finalize rehearsal dinner arrangements
  • Call guests who have not responded
  • Give final counts to the caterer

2. Apply for a marriage license

So you've decided you definitely want to get married in Ocean City. That's great! But before you think about checking off boxes on your wedding to-do list, you should apply for a Worcester County marriage license. Call the Clerk of Court Office at 410-632-5500 to find out what’s required and what documents are needed.

3. Arrange a beach wedding ceremony

Most brides- and grooms-to-be come to Ocean City to get married on the beach. If you want to arrange a beach ceremony, call the Ocean City Mayor’s Office at 410-289-8931. You’ll need to provide someone to officiate, since Ocean City doesn’t have a Justice of the Peace.