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By Rebecca Barnes
If you’re planning to tie the knot in Prince William County, there’s a beautiful way to say “I do” right here at home—whether you dream of an intimate courthouse wedding, a pop-up ceremony with local flair, or a special celebration that fits your timeline and budget.
The Prince William County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office makes the marriage process simple, meaningful, and full of heart. From obtaining a marriage license to exchanging vows in one of their civil ceremonies, couples can count on the Clerk’s team to guide them every step of the way.
A Simple, Heartfelt Path to “I Do”
Couples can begin their journey together with a civil ceremony hosted by the Clerk’s Office every Friday (except holidays) in a Circuit courtroom. These modest, heartfelt weddings are perfect for couples who want a stress-free, affordable way to make their union official.
Many couples also choose “Seals on Wheels,” a mobile ceremony option that brings the officiant to the couple for a more personal touch. So far, this program has helped 25 couples begin their new chapters with ease and joy.
After the ceremony, couples receive their signed and official marriage license either in person or by mail—no extra courthouse visits required. For some, it’s a simple start before a larger celebration; for others, it’s a perfect, affordable way to celebrate love without the stress of wedding planning.
How to Get a Marriage License in Prince William County
Before any wedding ceremony—civil or religious—can take place, couples must obtain a marriage license. The process is simple:
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Complete the online application at pwcva.gov/marriage.
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Schedule an appointment with the Public Services Office at the Judicial Center (third floor) or the Seals on Wheels mobile unit.
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Both partners must appear together with valid photo IDs to swear under oath that all information on the license is accurate.
Once the ceremony is complete, the officiant (whether religious or civil) must return the signed license within five days for the marriage to be officially recorded. Couples can find a video tutorial and additional details on the Clerk’s website.
Making Every Ceremony Meaningful
At the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, love is always worth celebrating. Their team goes beyond paperwork to create lasting memories through signature events that bring the community together.
Seal the Deal: Winter Civil Weddings in Occoquan
Each December, the Clerk’s Office partners with the Town of Occoquan to host Seal the Deal, a winter wedding event where couples exchange vows in a beautifully decorated venue. This year’s celebration takes place on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Madigan’s Waterfront, a locally owned steak and seafood restaurant.
Couples enjoy a romantic setting with floral arches, soft lighting, and waterfront views. Afterward, they can explore the town’s boutiques or cozy up by the fire during Occoquan’s Firelight Night, complete with s’mores and cocoa—a perfect way to end a wedding day.
Valentine’s Day Bash: Love is in the Air
Every February 14, the Clerk’s Office transforms a local venue into a charming backdrop for their Valentine’s Day Bash. Previous events have taken place at the Old Manassas Courthouse, Three Monkeys Pub, and the ARTFactory.
The full-day celebration features 15-minute civil ceremonies, whimsical photo opportunities, and heart-shaped treats—all surrounded by red and white décor. It’s a community favorite for couples who love the romance of Valentine’s Day or want to renew their vows in a festive atmosphere.
A Community That Celebrates Love
From courthouse vows to mobile ceremonies and annual celebrations, each wedding officiated by the Prince William County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office reflects a shared belief that love deserves recognition—no matter how big or small the ceremony.
As Clerk staff put it best, “Every ceremony is a meaningful page in each couple’s story together, and we cherish and honor these moments.”
To schedule a civil ceremony or learn more about marriage licenses, couples can call 703-792-6036 or email CircuitCourt@pwcgov.org. Stay connected with the Clerk’s Office on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, and BlueSky at @PWCCircuitCourt.
About the Author
Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living and Brides & Weddings magazines and the CEO of Imagine, a destination marketing agency based in Manassas. She loves helping couples discover all the ways to celebrate love locally—whether that’s through a courthouse ceremony, a grand wedding, or something in between. When she’s not writing or attending community events, Rebecca enjoys time with her grandchildren, planning her next Disney trip, or catching up on a little extra sleep.
