How to Easily Get Married in Idaho

If you're looking for a wedding that's a little off the beaten path, that feels like a destination but doesn't require international travel, an Idaho wedding might be for you. Before you start planning, it's important to know how to get married in Idaho. This includes researching how to get an Idaho marriage license and getting familiar with recommended wedding locations. If you and your significant other are passionate about the outdoors, you won't be disappointed with your options here. Embrace your love of nature with a wedding in the Gem State. Continue reading for everything you need to know.

In this article:

• How to Get a Marriage License in Idaho
• Notable Wedding Locations in Idaho
• How to Plan a Wedding in Idaho Step-by-Step

How to Get a Marriage License in Idaho

To get a marriage license in Idaho, you both must appear in person at the county recorder's office. According to Idaho marriage laws, you need to bring $30 (many do not take credit cards or checks so bring cash), a Social Security number for each applicant, and proof of identity and age with a driver's license, state-issued ID card, passport or birth certificate. There is no waiting period after you get the license—you can get married the same day you apply. There is also no expiration on the license, but contact the Idaho Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics if it's not used within a year.

Notable Wedding Locations in Idaho

There are many beautiful Idaho wedding venues, especially if you love the great outdoors. "Idaho has everything you could desire (forests, lakes, deserts, cities and everything in between)," says Brandi Barnhart, owner and head designer of Boise Events. "If our prospective couple has a medium to small budget, it is important that they stay close to a major metropolitan area that has many types of venues sure to match their vision with many cost options, as well as lots of vendors, to keep those travel costs down," Barnhart explains.

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Boise

"If they love the nightlife and lots of activities a large city would offer, then Boise and the surrounding area is your best bet," Barnhart recommends. "Boise also offers some gorgeous venues sure to capture the essence of most couples' wishes." She also advises getting married in a city if you want the best chance at finding your ideal wedding venue. "To get a wide variety of venue types that are available, try to plan for an area in or near a major metropolitan area during the late spring, summer and early fall months, to give yourself the best chance of finding something that fits your overall vision," Barnhart explains.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a charming ski-resort town that exudes rustic elegance and is the perfect place to tie the knot whether you want an intimate dinner at a five-star restaurant or a huge celebration at a ranch. Surrounded by sweeping views of the Sawtooth Mountain, this town is named after its 250 days of sunshine. You'd be hard-pressed to find a wedding venue that isn't breathtakingly beautiful.

McCall and Coeur d'Alene

Couples who love being outdoors should consider one of these areas for their wedding vows. However, this might increase the budget because they're a little further from a metropolitan area. "Because most of these areas have limited vendor types locally, the couple will have to absorb the additional cost of bringing out-of-town vendors/services for their event," Barnhart says.

How to Plan a Wedding in Idaho Step-by-Step

Keep these specific considerations in mind when planning a wedding in Idaho.

Set a Budget

"Although Idaho has been known in the past for being an affordable place to get married, that has changed since COVID-19," Barnhart explains. "We are seeing clients have to spend 20–40% more for many facets of a wedding than just four to five years ago, with the biggest change generally in catering and bar and venue prices." The Knot Budget Advisor helps couples learn more about wedding costs in their marrying location, based on data from real couples. Creating a hard and fast budget will make the rest of the planning process less stressful.

Consider the Time of Year

"The time of year you plan to get married can also change your budget, as there are fewer venues available in the winter months that are big enough for a ceremony, cocktail hour and a reception unless you are planning a very small, intimate event," Barnhart says. "These, in most cases, are the places that require you to take their catering and bar, which means you can expect to pay more."

Think About Guest Travel

Depending on where you're getting married in Idaho, it might require some logistical legwork from your guests. "The location of your event will drive availability of vendors, rentals, and places for your guests to stay, as well as access to an airport and rental cars," reminds Barnhart. "The farther away from a large city you are planning, the more expensive it is for you and your guests to attend."

Do Your Research on Vendors

Just because you found a venue you love, doesn't mean there will be a plethora of wedding vendors nearby to help with other parts of the wedding. "The lack of affordable venues and resources (vendors/services) makes it difficult to have an affordable wedding," Barnhart says. "There are many areas of the state that are underserved in all facets of the industry. If you find a venue somewhere, it does not necessarily mean the rest of the services you will need are readily available nearby." Do research on Idaho wedding vendors at The Knot Vendor Marketplace.

Hire a Wedding Planner

Because of all the intricacies that come with planning an Idaho wedding, a pro will be able to help with the more challenging aspects. "Having a planner to take your vision into consideration, assess your capabilities financially and help you plan every detail, is well worth what you will spend," Barnhart advises.