Getting Hitched in Vegas: Why “I Do” is Just $102 and an ID Away

In August 2023, I had the immense joy of marrying the love of my life, Dr. Dwayne Rollins. Our journey together spanned nearly a decade of laughter, adventures, and unwavering companionship. Dwayne had previously navigated the complexities of marriage, and by the time our paths intertwined, he had been three years removed from that chapter of his life. Our romance blossomed beautifully, and we always envisioned a future together filled with love and commitment.

Dwayne is a devoted father of three, and with his youngest child heading off to college, we felt that the time was finally right for us to take the leap into marriage. Excitement filled the air as we waltzed into our local courthouse, only to be met with a surprising revelation: due to Dwayne’s previous marriage, he needed to produce specific paperwork—original documents, no less. This meant he had to carve out time from work at the last minute to gather what was required, which became a bit of a challenge considering we had already set aside vacation days to revel in Dwayne’s birthday celebrations in Las Vegas and catch an electrifying Beyoncé concert.

Amidst the hustle, my father chimed in with a suggestion that illuminated our path: why not get married in Las Vegas? “It’s quick, easy, and affordable,” he urged. Intrigued, I conducted some research and soon discovered that a Vegas wedding could indeed be a delightful and pragmatic choice.

As a woman who has never yearned for a grand, extravagant wedding, I felt the burden of planning dissipate. With six sisters and a constellation of friends, selecting who to invite was a daunting thought. Dwayne’s previous marriage cast an additional shadow over the idea of a lavish ceremony, making our desire for simplicity clear. The prospect of slipping into a beautiful wedding dress from Fashion Nova for under $40 felt like a dream come true.

In the end, the total cost of our intimate wedding was a modest $750, with the bulk—a remarkable $400—going towards a talented photographer who captured our joyful day in stunning detail.

For those considering a Vegas wedding, I wholeheartedly recommend the Palazzo at the Venetian, a magnificent venue with sprawling spaces perfect for taking breathtaking photos in front of their enchanting waterfall.

Below, I’ve included an itinerary for planning a Vegas wedding, sharing our experience for readers contemplating a small, heartfelt ceremony.

Las Vegas: land of neon lights, 24/7 entertainment, Elvis impersonators, and… lightning-fast weddings. If you’re thinking about tying the knot and want a ceremony that skips the stress and embraces spontaneity, getting married in Vegas might be your perfect match. Whether it’s a spur-of-the-moment decision or a planned elopement with flair, Sin City makes saying “I do” incredibly easy.

Let’s break it down—what you actually need, how much it’ll cost, and why A Little White Wedding Chapel is the crown jewel of quickie weddings.

Why Vegas?

Vegas weddings are legendary. Over 70,000 couples get married there every year, and for good reasons. The city has created a kind of wedding utopia where red tape is minimal, open hours are generous, and the vibe is fun, light-hearted, and utterly iconic. You can get married at a drive-thru, under the stars, in a vintage Cadillac, or even dressed as your favorite pop culture duo. Want Elvis to officiate? Done. A live stream for Grandma back in Michigan? Easy.

Vegas turns marriage into an experience—not just a legal formality.

What You Need (Spoiler: Not Much)

Here’s where it gets refreshingly simple. To legally marry in Las Vegas, Nevada, here’s all you need:

A valid government-issued photo ID: This can be a driver’s license, passport, or military ID.

Both parties must be at least 18 years old (though with parental consent and court approval, younger individuals can marry under certain conditions).

$102 for a marriage license: This is a flat fee, paid directly to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau. No blood tests, no waiting period, and no appointment needed.

That’s it. No kidding.

Once you have the license, it’s valid immediately and for up to one year, anywhere in the state of Nevada. But let’s be honest—if you’re getting a Vegas marriage license, odds are you’re walking straight from the bureau to a chapel with a big grin and a bouquet of silk roses.

The Marriage License Bureau: Open When You Are

Located just a short Uber from the Strip, the Clark County Marriage License Bureau is your first stop. It’s open every day from 8 a.m. to midnight, including weekends and holidays. Yes, you can walk in on New Year’s Eve at 11:30 p.m. and still walk out married before the countdown if you hustle.

You can even fill out the marriage license pre-application online beforehand to speed up the process. Just show up with your ID and confirmation number, pay your $102, and you’re officially ready to wed.

The Best Place for a Quick Ceremony: A Little White Wedding Chapel

Ah, A Little White Wedding Chapel. This place isn’t just famous—it’s a Vegas institution. Since 1951, it’s hosted thousands of weddings, including those of celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Britney Spears, and Bruce Willis. But don’t let the star-studded guestbook intimidate you. This chapel is surprisingly affordable, ultra-convenient, and full of charm.

Here’s why it’s the go-to spot:

1. Speed and Convenience

This chapel practically invented the fast wedding. They’re pros at getting couples in and out with all the flair and none of the fuss. You can literally get married in 10 minutes if you’re in a hurry, but there are options for more elaborate packages too.

2. The Tunnel of Love Drive-Thru

Yes, drive-thru weddings are real—and wildly popular. You can pull up in your own car or rent a pink Cadillac for extra flair. Don’t even want to get out of your ride? You don’t have to. It’s kitschy, it’s iconic, and it’s pure Vegas.

3. Elvis Ceremonies

Want a King-sized memory? Hire an Elvis impersonator to walk you down the aisle and serenade you while officiating. It’s equal parts hilarious and oddly heartfelt.

4. Affordability

Ceremony packages start at around $75 and range up depending on extras like flowers, photography, video, limo service, and themed costumes. Even the “everything included” packages rarely crack $500, making this one of the best-value weddings you can get anywhere in the U.S.

What Happens After?

Once you’re married, the chapel will typically file your paperwork with the state. But you’ll want to order an official marriage certificate from the Clark County Clerk’s Office to use as legal proof of your union (especially if you need to change your name or file joint taxes). This can be done online or in person, and it’s a small additional fee.

Tips for a Smooth Vegas Wedding

Bring your IDs – Obvious, but crucial. No ID = no license.

• Pre-fill your marriage application online – Saves time at the bureau.
• Dress however you want – Seriously, there’s no dress code. Go full tux and gown, or wear jeans and a T-shirt. Anything goes.
• Book a chapel ahead of time if it’s a weekend or holiday – Vegas weddings are popular. Reservations help.
• Don’t forget to smile and have fun – It’s your wedding day!

Final Thoughts: Love, Vegas Style

A Vegas wedding is fast, affordable, and unforgettable. Whether you’re eloping, renewing vows, or just love the idea of skipping the guest list and going straight to the “I do,” there’s no place quite like Las Vegas to get married. All it takes is a government-issued ID, $102 for your license, and a few minutes at A Little White Wedding Chapel to seal the deal.

In a world that can make weddings feel like massive productions, Vegas reminds us that love doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs two people ready to commit, and maybe a rhinestone-studded Elvis on standby.

So go ahead. Say yes. Say “I do.” Say it loud, say it proud, say it with neon lights and confetti. Vegas is waiting.