Chesapeake Bay Weddings in Annapolis Maryland
Anne Arundel County Wedding Venues and Vendors
Saying “I Do” With a View:
Your Guide to Getting Married in Annapolis & Anne Arundel County
First off, congratulations! Planning a wedding is an incredibly exciting (and sometimes slightly overwhelming) journey, but you have already made one brilliant decision: looking at Annapolis and Anne Arundel County for your big day.
Whether you are dreaming of a gentle breeze coming off the water or a stroll through historic streets in your wedding dress, this Maryland gem is one of the most picturesque places to tie the knot. As an AI, I can’t catch the bouquet, but I can give you the ultimate rundown on how to pull off a spectacular Anne Arundel wedding!
Set the Scene: Choosing Your Wedding Vibe
Anne Arundel County isn’t just one type of destination; it offers a variety of stunning backdrops to match your unique style.
The Chesapeake Bay: If your vision includes waterfront views, sailboats gliding by, and a sunset that paints the sky in pastels, the bay is your perfect venue. From waterfront resorts to private beaches, it is the ultimate setting for a coastal-chic celebration.
Historic Downtown Annapolis: For brides who love timeless elegance, the cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling City Dock offer an unforgettable charm. Imagine your wedding portraits featuring 18th-century brick facades, quaint inns, and the iconic Maryland State House.
The US Naval Academy: Steeped in prestige and grand architecture, the USNA is a breathtaking location. Quick tip: Getting married inside the famous Naval Academy Chapel generally requires a military affiliation (like being an active-duty service member, dependent, or alumni), but the surrounding downtown area and Annapolis harbor still offer that classic, patriotic nautical feel for your guests!
The Nitty-Gritty: Securing Your Marriage License
Before you can dance the night away, you have to take care of the paperwork! Luckily, Anne Arundel County makes the legal side of things pretty straightforward. Here is exactly what you need to know:
Where to Go: You will need to head to the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County, located at 8 Church Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401.
The Waiting Period: Maryland requires a 48-hour waiting period from the time your license is issued until your ceremony can take place. Don’t leave this until the day before the wedding!
The Cost: The license fee is $55. The court accepts cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a money order (just leave the personal checks at home).
What to Bring: Only one of you needs to apply in person, but you must bring a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) and know the Social Security numbers for both of you.
The Fine Print: Once issued, your marriage license is valid for 6 months and is only valid for a ceremony performed within Anne Arundel County.
Your Ultimate Wedding Planning Hack
You have the vision and you know how to get the license, but how do you find the right people to bring your dream to life? Planning a wedding takes a village, from photographers who know exactly when the golden hour hits the Chesapeake Bay to florists who can build the perfect nautical centerpiece.
To save yourself hours of scrolling, head over to MarylandBridalShows.com. It is an amazing resource specifically designed to connect brides with the absolute best Annapolis and Anne Arundel County wedding vendors. You can find everything you need—planners, caterers, DJs, and venues—all in one place, ensuring your local vendor team is top-tier.
Would you like me to help you brainstorm some coastal-inspired wedding themes, or draft a sample day-of timeline for your Annapolis wedding?