THRILLED YOU’RE HERE! I’m excited to walk you through everything you need to know about getting married in Pawleys Island, South Carolina.
HOW DO YOU GET MARRIED IN PAWLEYS ISLAND?
Here’s your easy-to-follow checklist:
- Fill out your marriage license at Georgetown County Probate Court
- Bring your partner
- Bring your Photo ID and Social Security Document
- Pay your marriage license fee $50–100
- Wait for 24-hours after applying.
- Hire an Officiant + Photographer to document your wedding
- Attend your Ceremony
- Congrats! You're Married!
Start by completing your marriage license application in person at the Georgetown County Probate Court. Both applicants must appear with valid government-issued IDs (Driver’s License, Passport, or State ID). No blood test is required!
Note: Once issued, the marriage license is valid indefinitely, but it can only be used within South Carolina.
Getting Your Georgetown County Marriage License
Before your wedding in Pawleys Island, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from Georgetown County. Here’s what you need to know:
Application Process
Both parties must appear in person with valid government-issued photo IDs.
Bring your Social Security numbers or Alien Registration numbers.
Waiting Period
There’s a 24-hour waiting period after applying before you can pick up your license.
Cost
The fee is $50–$95 depending on residency (cash or money order only).
Your marriage license will be valid for ceremonies held anywhere in South Carolina, but it won’t expire once issued.
Where to Apply: Visit the Georgetown County Probate Court.
Address: Georgetown County Judicial Center, 401 Cleland St, Georgetown, SC 29440.
Phone Number: (843) 545-3075
Choose your location
Pawleys Island offers beautiful spots for your wedding. You can go beachside, marsh-front, or opt for one of the local venues or chapels.
Some top locations include:
Pick Your Officiant
South Carolina law allows for a variety of officiants to perform wedding ceremonies, including:
- Clergy members (ministers, priests, rabbis)
- Judges and magistrates
- A friend or family member ordained online
Get Married!
Once you’ve secured your venue and officiant, it’s time to tie the knot! Whether it’s a quiet morning wedding on the beach or a sunset ceremony by the marsh, Pawleys Island’s coastal charm will make it unforgettable.
File Your Marriage License
After the ceremony, your officiant must sign and return the completed marriage license to the Georgetown County Probate Court within 15 days.
AFTER THE CEREMONY
Order Certified Copies of Your Marriage License
Fee: $5 per certified copy
How to Order:
- In person at the Georgetown County Probate Court
- By mail: Send a request with your wedding details and payment.
Change Your Name
If you’re planning to change your name, use the certified copy of your marriage license to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and other personal records.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do we need witnesses for our wedding in South Carolina?
Nope! South Carolina does not require witnesses for a marriage to be legal.
Can we apply for a marriage license online?
Unfortunately, Georgetown County requires both parties to apply in person at the Probate Court.
How long is the marriage license valid?
The marriage license does not expire, so you can use it whenever you’re ready to get married.
Are beach weddings allowed on Pawleys Island?
Yes! Beach weddings are popular on Pawleys Island. Just be sure to check for any local regulations and consider the tides and weather when planning.
Can we have alcohol at our beach wedding?
Alcohol consumption is generally not allowed on public beaches, so it’s a good idea to keep things non-alcoholic during the ceremony. You can celebrate with a reception at a nearby venue afterward!
PAWLEYS ISLAND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Hey! I’m Glenn, a wedding and elopement photographer. If you’re planning to get married on Pawleys Island, I’d love to capture those special moments for you! Whether it’s a quiet beach ceremony or a lively reception, I’ll help make sure your memories are preserved beautifully.
Reach out today to book your wedding photography session!
