Planning guide updated October 15, 2026. Check the linked offices for current local procedures.
A New Bern wedding can be a small ceremony or a whole day with your family. Start with the paperwork, then make room for the people and photographs that matter to you.
Apply for your marriage license
Craven County currently accepts walk-ins; no appointment is needed. You can complete the optional online application before visiting. Both applicants must appear together with unexpired government photo identification, their Social Security numbers and the $60 license fee.
If a previous marriage ended in divorce, bring the required divorce decree. If a spouse died, check the county’s accepted supporting documents. Applicants under 18 should review the additional requirements directly with the office.
Craven lists several payment methods, including cash, checks and cards. Card processing fees apply. For questions, call 252-636-6617 or email [email protected].
Read the current Craven County requirements and start the application.
Arrange your ceremony
Your license and ceremony are separate arrangements. Choose an authorized officiant and bring at least two witnesses. For a civil ceremony, contact the county magistrate’s office to confirm availability before making plans. See the North Carolina Judicial Branch marriage guidance for the statewide requirements.
See a New Bern wedding
Browse Hayley and Joseph’s wedding at Maola at Riverside for a look at the photographs. Schedule a call to talk about your own day.
Let’s talk about your plans.
Choose a time and share your details through Calendly.
Schedule a call with Glenn