The world may be paused due to COVID-19 but life goes on and love cannot wait. So, San Bernardino County is now issuing online marriage licenses with ceremony services to couples longing to make it official from a distance. Reporter Heather Clisby has the details…
On May 11, Yucca Valley residents Trent and Crystal Bell took their vows of marriage surrounded by absolutely no one. Their officiant, Chief Deputy Recorder Melissa Garcia, performed the very first remote nuptials in San Bernardino County via online video.
To view a one-minute clip of the Bell’s ceremony, go here:
Couples interested in this cyber ceremony, must meet certain criteria:
- At least one of the parties must be a San Bernardino County Resident.
- The couple must be physically in the state of California and in the same room during the ceremony.
- The couple can connect with both video and audio functionality via Zoom.
- The couple and witness must be able to access their email during the session.
- The witness must be available to sign the license and join the ceremony via Zoom.
Thankfully, wedding guests can join the online celebration after all paperwork is completed and received by the county, about 10-20 minutes after the exchange of vows.
Hopeful brides and grooms can obtain marriage licenses and book an online ceremony through June 29, 2020. Call the county clerk at 909-252-5651 or send an email to [email protected] to arrange.
The county clerk is also still accepting appointments for in-person marriage licenses and ceremonies for county residents. Daily appointments are limited. Call 909-387-8306 to arrange.
