How to Self-Unite for Your Pennsylvania Elopement

Pennsylvania is one of four states where you can self-unite, making it extremely easy for couple’s to elope here! In 2021, over 1,500 couples in the state of Pennsylvania chose to self-unite, and this new method of getting married is becoming increasingly popular among people who aren’t interested in a traditional big wedding. If you and your partner want to elope in PA, I highly recommend choosing to self-unite as it’s the easiest and most affordable way to legally get married in our state. Below are a few helpful tips on how to get your license and how to plan your special union.

What Does it Mean to Self-Unite?

Self-uniting means you can legally say “I do” without the presence of an officiant. Once you get your license, you can marry your partner as long as you have 2 adult witnesses present to make the union official. This means you can even do something as small as grabbing some hoagies and exchanging vows in front of two strangers walking by. As long as you remember to get them to sign the legal document as a witness to your unconventional wedding, that is as official as you need to get! While that example might seem a little silly, a self-uniting wedding means you can genuinely get married in whatever way feels special to you and your partner. Similar to eloping, your union becomes less about the fanfare of a traditional wedding. People that self-unite typically want to avoid the stress and burden of planning a large wedding. Instead, they want to focus on creating an intimate moment with their partner in a location that is unique to their relationship, and they may even include a small number of close friends and family. While you don’t need an officiant, you can have someone in your circle officiate your wedding, even if they’re un-ordained. 

How Do You Get a License?

The following steps will explain how to get your marriage license in Pittsburgh. While it shouldn’t be too different in your area, simply Google where to get a “self-uniting marriage license” in your specific county, and you’ll find out exactly where you need to apply. 

To get your marriage license in Pittsburgh, you’ll need to fill out this application . Once your application is submitted you will need to appear in person, together at the Marriage License Bureau to complete the process. The cost of getting your self-uniting license in Alleghany county is $80.

Once you’ve got your license and certificate in hand, all that’s left to do is pick a location and have your 2 witnesses present. Regardless of where you get your license, you can choose to get married wherever you’d like in the state of Pennsylvania.   

Self-Uniting Ceremony Tips

Not all weddings are the same, but a traditional wedding typically follows some specific guidelines from start to finish. You’ve either been to one or seen one on TV, so they’re probably already pretty familiar to you. With a self-uniting union, you may have never been to one, or this might even be the first time you’re hearing about them. The good news is, there are no rules, and you really can have a ceremony that is uniquely yours and your partners.

Make the decision together on the kind of ceremony you’d like to have. You’re both excited to self-unite, but you might have the complete opposite idea of how you want to celebrate your big day together. One of you might be imagining an intimate ceremony at a beautiful state park, where the other may have envisioned something completely different, like a casual brewery setting with friends and family. Decide what kind of vibe best represents you as a couple before you start planning.

Determine the perfect location. This can be tricky, so really take your time exploring all of your options. Having determined the vibe you want to have that day, choose a location that’s suitable for the type of ambiance you hope to create. If you’re wanting something more laid back, avoid crowds and choose a more private location.

Invite your guests. If you’ve chosen to self-unite, it’s likely because you want a more intimate experience. Only invite the people that will add to the positive energy of your special day.

Get the necessary paperwork. When you’ve chosen a location, make sure you get any necessary permits that will enable you to have your ceremony there. On the day of, remember to bring your certificate so you and your witnesses can sign it. 

Book a photographer that understands how self-uniting works. Hi, I’m Liz, I specialize in Pennsylvania elopement photography and planning. My husband and I have helped countless couples navigate through the self-uniting process and I’d love to help you too! In addition to the legal side of things, I help couples create a day that’s intentional and stress-free by offering a supportive, knowledgeable and kind experience that includes vendor and location research, planning resources and custom timeline curation, ensuring couples get beautiful photos while having an incredible time!

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