Introduction
Eloping in Maryland offers a variety of breathtaking backdrops, from historic towns and scenic countryside to beautiful beaches and vibrant cities. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of planning your elopement or wedding across various regions of Maryland, including Southern Maryland, Central Maryland, Northern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore.
1. How to Elope in Maryland
Step 1: Obtain a Marriage License
- Location: Any County Clerk’s Office in Maryland. Some popular ones include Baltimore City, Montgomery County (Rockville), and Anne Arundel County (Annapolis).
- Office Hours: Typically Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
- Requirements: Both parties must appear in person with valid photo IDs (driver’s license, passport, etc.). No blood tests are required.
- Application Process: Fill out an application form at the Clerk’s Office or online through their website.
- Cost: Approximately $35 to $85, depending on the county.
- Waiting Period: There is a 48-hour waiting period before the license becomes valid.
- Validity: The marriage license is valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
Step 2: Choose a Location
Consider factors such as accessibility, privacy, and scenic beauty when selecting your elopement spot. Maryland offers a variety of stunning locations across its regions, each with its own unique charm.
Step 3: Hire an Officiant
- Civil Officiants: Maryland has several civil officiants who can perform your ceremony. You can find a list of registered officiants through the County Clerk’s Office.
- Religious Officiants: If you prefer a religious ceremony, local churches and spiritual leaders can officiate.
Step 4: Arrange for Witnesses
- Witness Requirements: Maryland law requires one witness for the marriage ceremony. If you’re eloping privately, many local photographers, coordinators, or park rangers can serve as witnesses.
Step 5: Permits and Permissions
- Public Lands: Permits may be required for ceremonies in state parks, beaches, and other public areas. Contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources or the specific park office for details.
2. Top Locations or Venues for Ceremonies & Receptions
Southern Maryland
- Historic St. Mary’s City
- Features: Historic site with colonial-era buildings and beautiful waterfront views.
- Best Spots: The State House Lawn, The Chapel.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the venue for details.
- Contact: (240) 895-4990
- Sotterley Plantation
- Features: Historic plantation with gardens and views of the Patuxent River.
- Best Spots: The Manor House Lawn, the Barn.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the venue for details.
- Contact: (301) 373-2280
- Calvert Cliffs State Park
- Features: Scenic park with cliffs, beach, and fossil hunting.
- Best Spots: The beach area, along the cliffs.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the park for details.
- Contact: (301) 743-7613 | Calvert Cliffs
Central Maryland
- Cylburn Arboretum (Baltimore)
- Features: 200-acre arboretum with gardens, trails, and historic mansion.
- Best Spots: Formal Gardens, the Mansion.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the arboretum for details.
- Contact: (410) 367-2217
- Ladew Topiary Gardens (Monkton)
- Features: Beautifully landscaped gardens with topiary sculptures.
- Best Spots: The Great Bowl, the Rose Garden.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the gardens for details.
- Contact: (410) 557-9466
- Howard County Conservancy (Woodstock)
- Features: Scenic conservancy with gardens, trails, and historic buildings.
- Best Spots: The Gudelsky Environmental Education Center, the Carriage House Lawn.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the conservancy for details.
- Contact: (410) 465-8877
Northern Maryland
- Concord Point Lighthouse (Havre de Grace)
- Features: Historic lighthouse with views of the Chesapeake Bay.
- Best Spots: The lighthouse grounds, the Keeper’s House.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the venue for details.
- Contact: (410) 939-3213
- Elk Neck State Park
- Features: Park with forested areas, cliffs, and beaches.
- Best Spots: Turkey Point Lighthouse, the beach area.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the park for details.
- Contact: (410) 287-5333 | Elk Neck State Park
- Steppingstone Farm Museum (Havre de Grace)
- Features: Historic farm museum with beautiful grounds and gardens.
- Best Spots: The Courtyard, the Barn.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the museum for details.
- Contact: (410) 939-2299
Eastern Shore
- Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (St. Michaels)
- Features: Maritime museum with waterfront views and historic buildings.
- Best Spots: The Tolchester Beach Bandstand, the Steamboat Building.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the museum for details.
- Contact: (410) 745-2916
- Great Oak Manor (Chestertown)
- Features: Historic manor with waterfront views and elegant gardens.
- Best Spots: The Manor Lawn, the Garden.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the manor for details.
- Contact: (410) 778-5943
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Cambridge)
- Features: Wildlife refuge with beautiful landscapes and waterways.
- Best Spots: Along the Wildlife Drive, near the water.
- Permit Required: Yes, contact the refuge for details.
- Contact: (410) 228-2677
3. Top Activities to Incorporate into Couples Elopement or Wedding Day
Enhance your elopement or wedding day with memorable activities:
- Scenic Boat Tours
- Description: Explore Maryland’s waterways on a romantic boat tour.
- Providers: Schooner Woodwind (Annapolis), Patriot Cruises (St. Michaels).
- Contact: Schooner Woodwind – (410) 263-7837
- Hiking and Photography Sessions
- Description: Explore Maryland’s scenic trails and capture your special moments.
- Popular Trails: Billy Goat Trail (Potomac), Swallow Falls State Park (Oakland).
- Wine Tasting Tours
- Description: Discover local vineyards and wineries.
- Providers: Boordy Vineyards (Hydes), Linganore Winecellars (Mount Airy).
- Contact: Boordy Vineyards – (410) 592-5015
- Historic Site Visits
- Description: Visit Maryland’s historic sites and landmarks.
- Sites: Fort McHenry (Baltimore), Antietam National Battlefield (Sharpsburg).
- Spa Treatments
- Description: Relax and rejuvenate with a couple’s spa treatment.
- Providers: The Ivy Hotel Spa (Baltimore), Pearl Spa (Columbia).
- Contact: The Ivy Hotel Spa – (410) 514-6500
4. Best Restaurants
Celebrate your love with a meal at one of Maryland’s top restaurants in our Guide to MD Elopements & Weddings:
Southern Maryland
- The Front Porch (Leonardtown)
- Cuisine: American, Southern.
- Features: Historic building, charming ambiance.
- Contact: (301) 997-1009
- Captain Billy’s Crab House (Newburg)
- Cuisine: Seafood.
- Features: Waterfront dining, casual setting.
- Contact: (301) 932-4323
Central Maryland
- Charleston (Baltimore)
- Cuisine: American, fine dining.
- Features: Elegant setting, award-winning cuisine.
- Contact: (410) 332-7373
- Woodberry Kitchen (Baltimore)
- Cuisine: American, farm-to-table.
- Features: Rustic ambiance, locally sourced ingredients.
- Contact: (410) 464-8000
Northern Maryland
- Laurrapin Grille (Havre de Grace)
- Cuisine: American, farm-to-table.
- Features: Cozy setting, seasonal menu.
- Contact: (410) 939-4956
- The Manor Tavern (Monkton)
- Cuisine: American.
- Features: Historic building, charming atmosphere.
- Contact: (410) 771-8155
Eastern Shore
- Inn at Perry Cabin (St. Michaels)
- Cuisine: American, fine dining.
- Features: Waterfront dining, elegant setting.
- Contact: (410) 745-2200
- The Robert Morris Inn (Oxford)
- Cuisine: American, seafood.
- Features: Historic inn, waterfront views.
- Contact: (410) 226-5111
5. Best Times of Year to Elope or Get Married in Maryland
- Spring (March to May):
- Pros: Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, fewer tourists.
- Cons: Potential for rain.
- Ideal For: Outdoor ceremonies and photography.
- Fall (September to November):
- Pros: Cooler temperatures, stunning fall foliage, fewer tourists.
- Cons: Variable weather, early sunsets.
- Ideal For: Intimate ceremonies with vibrant natural backdrops.
- Summer (June to August):
- Pros: Warm and sunny weather, vibrant landscapes.
- Cons: Hot temperatures, crowded, higher accommodation costs.
- Ideal For: Beach and outdoor ceremonies.
- Winter (December to February):
- Pros: Quiet, serene landscapes, lower costs.
- Cons: Cold weather, potential for snow.
- Ideal For: Cozy indoor ceremonies or unique winter experiences.
6. Ideas for Making Your Day Special
Incorporate Family Virtually
- Live Streaming: Use platforms like Zoom or Facebook Live to share your ceremony in real-time.
- Virtual Toasts: Schedule a time for family and friends to join via video call for speeches and toasts.
Celebrate Your Love Story
- Personal Vows: Share heartfelt, personalized vows that highlight your journey together.
- Memory Box: Create a time capsule with mementos from your day to open on a future anniversary.
Unique Elopement Ideas
- Adventure Elopements: Incorporate activities like hiking, boating, or visiting historic sites to reflect your adventurous spirit.
- Picnic Setup: Hire a local company to set up a romantic picnic at your ceremony site, complete with local delicacies and a cozy setting.
7. FAQ: Guide to MD Elopements & Weddings
Permitting
Do I need a permit?
- Public Lands: Permits may be required for ceremonies in state parks, beaches, and other public areas. Contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources or the specific park office for details.
- Contact Information: Maryland Department of Natural Resources – (877) 620-8367
- Website: MD DNR
Cost of permits:
- State Parks and Beaches: Varies by location, typically around $50-$200.
- Other Public Lands: Fees vary; contact the managing office for specific fees.
How to apply for a permit:
- Process: Applications usually require details about the ceremony, including date, time, location, number of guests, and any special requests. It’s advisable to apply several months in advance to secure your preferred date and location.
- Documentation: Provide a detailed itinerary and any other required documents. Include a copy of your marriage license if applicable.
Guest limits and restrictions:
- State Parks and Beaches: Generally limit the number of guests to ensure minimal impact on the environment. For example, popular spots may have restrictions on group sizes.
- Other Public Lands: Guest limits vary by location and specific site capacity. Always check with the managing office.
Travel Costs and Hubs
Nearest Airports:
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI):
- Location: Approximately 10 miles from downtown Baltimore.
- Airlines: Major hub with numerous national and international flights.
- Contact: (410) 859-7111
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA):
- Location: About 40 miles from Baltimore, closer to the DC metro area.
- Airlines: Major hub with numerous national and international flights.
- Contact: (703) 417-8000
Travel Costs:
- Flights: Vary significantly based on season and advance booking. Off-peak times generally offer lower prices.
- Accommodation: Range from budget motels to luxury resorts. Booking well in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall).
- Transportation: Car rentals are essential due to the spread-out nature of many scenic spots.
Rental Vehicle Companies:
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car:
- Location: Various locations throughout Maryland.
- Contact: (800) 261-7331
- Website: Enterprise
- Hertz Car Rental:
- Location: Various locations throughout Maryland.
- Contact: (800) 654-3131
- Website: Hertz
Accommodation Options
Hotels:
- Southern Maryland:
- The Inn at Leonardtown: Historic inn with charming accommodations. (301) 475-8040
- Solomons Victorian Inn: Cozy bed and breakfast with waterfront views. (410) 326-4811
- Central Maryland:
- The Ivy Hotel (Baltimore): Luxurious boutique hotel with historic charm. (410) 514-6500
- Annapolis Waterfront Hotel: Elegant hotel with waterfront views. (410) 268-7555 | Annapolis Waterfront Hotel
- Northern Maryland:
- Vandiver Inn (Havre de Grace): Historic bed and breakfast with elegant rooms. (410) 939-5200
- The Wayside Inn (Ellicott City): Charming bed and breakfast in a historic building. (410) 461-4636
- Eastern Shore:
- Inn at Perry Cabin (St. Michaels): Luxury waterfront hotel with upscale amenities. (410) 745-2200
- The Tidewater Inn (Easton): Historic inn with elegant accommodations. (410) 822-1300
Camping:
- Assateague Island National Seashore:
- Features: Beachfront camping with wild horses.
- Reservations: Required
- Contact: (410) 641-1441
- Patapsco Valley State Park:
- Features: Forested setting with trails and river views.
- Reservations: Required
- Contact: (410) 461-5005
Other Options:
- Vacation Rentals: Numerous options available through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, ranging from beachside condos to luxurious homes.
- Bed and Breakfasts: Quaint and charming options such as The Inn at Huntingfield Creek (Rock Hall) or Brampton Bed and Breakfast Inn (Chestertown).
General Tips
Weather Considerations:
- Spring and Fall: Best times to visit, with mild temperatures and less chance of extreme weather.
- Summer: Warm temperatures, often exceeding 85°F. Plan for early morning or late evening activities.
- Winter: Can be cool with occasional snow, offering a unique but quieter experience.
Attire:
- Outdoor Ceremonies: Consider the terrain and weather. Sturdy footwear is recommended for sandy or uneven ground.
- Layering: Evenings can be cool, so layering is advisable.
Health and Safety:
- Hydration: Carry plenty of water, especially during summer months.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear hats, and bring sunglasses to protect against strong sun exposure.
- Emergency Services: Know the location of the nearest medical facilities. Major hospitals are available in all regions.
- Southern Maryland: MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital (Leonardtown) – (301) 475-8981
- Central Maryland: Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore) – (410) 955-5000
- Northern Maryland: Upper Chesapeake Medical Center (Bel Air) – (443) 643-1000
- Eastern Shore: University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton – (410) 822-1000
Additional Planning Resources
- Maryland Office of Tourism: Offers extensive information on activities, accommodations, and events in the area.
- Wedding Planners: Local wedding planners can help coordinate your elopement or wedding, ensuring all details are managed.
- Southern Maryland: Little Miss Lovely – (410) 251-1598
- Central Maryland: Moongate Wedding Event Planner – (443) 345-1145
- Northern Maryland: A Bride’s Best Friend – (410) 459-3735
- Eastern Shore: Eastern Shore Wedding & Events – (410) 708-1144
Planning an elopement or wedding in Maryland offers a magical and memorable experience, thanks to its diverse landscapes and numerous activity options. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a serene setting, Maryland provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. Was our Guide to MD Elopements & Weddings useful, let us know in the comments, and be sure to check out more of our helpful guides, tips and tricks below:
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