How to Get Married in the State of Montana

Dazzling mountain vistas that stretch across the horizon, vast prairies that glow gold in the sunlight and sparkling lakes that dazzle the eyes. The Treasure State seamlessly blends raw rugged beauty with elevated glamour, making it a top destination for tying the knot. Learning how to get married in Montana means you're about to step into a world where breathtaking landscapes and timeless elegance set the stage for your big day.

But where to start with all the planning? That's where we come in. From Montana marriage laws to top locations to tie the knot to local pro-tips on making sure all your i's are dotted—we're covering everything you need to know about getting married in Montana. Bring on those wow-worthy Big Sky views.

In this article:

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

How to Get a Marriage License in Montana

One of the first steps to getting married in Montana is figuring out how to get a Montana wedding license. The good news is this is a relatively straightforward process, though there are a few Montana marriage requirements that are different from other states.

Both spouses must be present at the time of the application so that both can sign, and women under the age of 50 must get a Rubella blood test in order to get married. If you were born in a foreign country, your information must also be translated by a notary to be accepted by the clerk.

Aside from bringing a means of paying the application fee, you will also need a photo ID and proof of age to receive a Montana marriage license. (This can include a valid driver's license, a certified copy of your birth certificate, a passport or a state-issued ID). Double check with the county clerk's office in the county where you're getting married to see which they specifically require.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

If you have been previously married, you must also bring proof of that marriage ending; this can be in the form of a divorce decree, death certificate or any official paperwork that proves the exact date of that marriage coming to an end.

In Montana you can get your marriage license right after it has been issued to you; there is no waiting period after issuance, and you have six months to have your marriage ceremony and give your license to the officiant afterward.

Notable Wedding Locations in Montana

Whether Montana is your state of residence or you're visiting, anyone can see the beauty of the state just by being in it once. With Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, the Bighorn Mountains, the Great Plains and vast wilderness throughout the area, it dazzles from border to border. That said, you've got your pick of stunning Montana wedding venues to choose from. Here are some of the top locations across the state to tie the knot.

Bozeman

Tucked into the towering Rockies you'll find Bozeman, a cozy little haven for soon-to-be-weds who have an affinity for the outdoors. With its breathtaking mountain views, chic lodges and rugged barns, this Montana town offers up a covetable combo of luxury and nature. Nearby Yellowstone National Park offers endless opportunities for stunning photos and prewedding adventures.

Missoula

This college town is celebrated for its lively arts scene and relaxed vibe, which makes it the perfect place for those seeking a laid-back—but still stylish—"I do." The Clark Fork River and surrounding mountains serve up some seriously picturesque settings, while the quaint downtown area offers unique venues like restored theaters and modern event spaces.

Whitefish

If you're looking for tiny Montana town vibes with epic views, Whitefish should be high on your list. Located within easy driving distance of Glacier National Park, this sweet town is a dream destination for a scenic Montana wedding. From lakeside venues to luxurious mountain resorts, it offers an unparalleled backdrop for nuptials.

Billings

Billings is Montana's largest city, and it fuses urban amenities with the rugged charm of the Yellowstone River Valley. Because of its larger size, the city provides a spectrum of venues to choose from, not limited to historic mansions, ultra-contemporary spaces and outdoor locales. Consider incorporating local wine from nearby vineyards to give your wedding a distinct Montana flavor.

Big Sky

Couples dreaming of a mountain wedding should set their sights on Big Sky, which offers some of the most dramatic backdrops in Montana. We're talking cinematic beauty, here. With its luxurious resorts, rustic lodges and panoramic views, it's an unforgettable setting for the most important day of your life. As a bonus, guests can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing or fly fishing, making it perfect for a wedding weekend getaway.

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

Ready to do this thing? We asked local wedding pros about everything you need to know about how to plan a wedding in this state and they shared their best Montana wedding ideas.

1. Determine Your Budget

Money's not the most exciting topic to discuss when getting married, but you've got to nail down your budget before anything else. Once you know how much you have to spend, you can allocate it accordingly. The Knot Budget Advisor can help you figure out average wedding costs—it uses real data from local couples who've recently gotten hitched.

2. Consider Hiring a Wedding Planner

This is technically optional, but we argue it's money well spent. "Before you choose a date or a venue choose a wedding planner—they know their area best," says Beverly Killian, a wedding coordinator at MagnoliaBlue Events in Belgrade, Montana. "They have built incredible relationships with local vendors and those relationships will be crucial for you when it comes down to choosing the right venue and vendors for you."

3. Pick Your Venue & Date

The venue is your biggest booking, and it should be done ASAP. Determine which area of the state you'd like to get married, narrow down your selection to a few venue options and then tour each before choosing one. Now's also the time to select your date.

That brings us to an important topic: the best time to get married in Montana. The truth is that things can be a bit unpredictable. Killian says, "Montana weather can be extremely unpredictable regardless of the time of year, so be prepared and open for snow any month out of the year. Being flexible and open-minded is the key to planning a Montana wedding."

Generally speaking, there are four seasons in this state, so you expect winters to be cold and summers to be hot. Fortunately, you don't have to worry about many natural disasters either; Montana is rated one of the safest states to live in that regard.

4. Lock in Vendors

There are many kinds of vendors to consider for your Montana wedding; from the cake to the caterer to the DJ, there are great choices. Depending on your budget and taste, you can find more specific hometown-style music and food inspired by the town you're getting married in or find some that have a little bit of something for everyone.

"Book your vendors as soon as possible," insists Jennifer Horsley, owner and creative director of Habitat Events in Missoula, Montana. "Depending on your wedding vision, there might only be one or two options in Montana for the vendors you need!"

We recommend booking no less than six months in advance, but ideally give yourself a year for less stress. The Knot Vendor Marketplace is a great place to find all kinds of vendors, so you can get someone for every aspect of your wedding to make the day perfect.

5. Consider Transportation & Lodging for Your Guests

We mentioned above that hiring a wedding planner in Montana is extremely helpful. This is particularly because Montana is a big state and there's a lot to learn if you're not originally from the area. This is especially true when it comes to getting around.

"There can be some places with little to no Ubers, and you'll need to communicate with your guests to rent cars," Horsley notes. "Be sure to look at the guest lodging options in the nearby towns, as well. Places can book fast in the summer months."

6. Add Some Local Flair

If you're tying the knot in the Treasure State, you should definitely infuse some local flair into your Montana marriage. Weave in rustic accents like wood details or wildflower arrangements, serve locally sourced dishes such as bison, trout or huckleberry desserts to treat your guests, and consider hiring some live bluegrass or folk music to bring on the spirit of Big Sky Country to your celebration.