As our stay at home order has been extended many couples are wondering are virtual weddings a possibility!?

So, is it possible to get married online!? Well, yes! However, not legally in the State of Hawaii and many other states. Streaming your wedding ceremony for family and friends who can not attend seems like a great solution during these unprecedented times, however, we want to clear up the legality of these virtual weddings.

Hawaii State Law Prohibits Virtual Marriage Ceremonies

In the state of Hawaii, a virtual marriage ceremony done by an individual with a license to solemnize marriages does NOT meet the legal requirements for a valid marriage.

According to Hawaii Revised Statutes section 572-1(7) in order for a marriage to be legal and valid:

  • The ceremony must be performed in the state of Hawaii with a valid license
  • The parties to be married and the person performing the marriage ceremony must ALL be physically present at the same place and time for the marriage ceremony.

Marriage Performers

FYI for all marriage performers and licensing agents: the Department of Health may revoke the license of any marriage officiant who misleads couples to attempt to marry in this manner (section 572-13.5 Hawaii Revised Statutes).

Solution

Just because you can’t make it legal by having a ceremony online doesn’t mean you still can’t grow a virtual wedding to celebrate! No doubt postponing your wedding has been an emotional rollercoaster. We are encouraging couples to do something special to celebrate their original wedding date. Having a virtual celebration with friends and family could be exactly what you need right now.

However, please wait till you can be physically present with your marriage performer to make it officially legal to avoid any serious consequences!

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