It's that time of year!

The following was in the Harrison Report today:

It’s May, and that means that wedding season is upon us. If you or someone you know is getting married over the next few months, then there are a great many things to do: find a wedding hall, order the cake, make sure your gowns and tuxedos fit just right and, of course, try to figure out where everyone is going to sit.

But for the bride and groom, there is one other little thing that must be done before you walk down that aisle together – getting a license to do so! In this great state (as well as the other 49), you need a license to drive a car, go hunting, buy a gun and even catch a fish. Similarly, before you say, “I do,” you must first sign your name to it.

Our office can help; in fact, we take great pride in helping you begin the rest of your lives together.

First, there are a few things you need to know before you both come to my office together. While some couples call for an appointment, others just come in. Whichever you choose, keep in mind that if you decide to just walk in, we can only give out licenses between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday without an appointment.

Next, you need to prove you are who you say you are. The New York State Department of Health requires the bride and groom to establish proof of age and identity by submitting one of the following age-related documents to me:

• Birth Certificate

• Baptismal Record

• Naturalization Record

• Census Record

But that’s not all. You also need to produce one of the following identity-related documents in-person:

• Driver's License

• Passport

• Employment Picture ID

• Immigration Record

Our office takes this procedure very seriously in order to prevent marriage fraud, so be safe and bring as many documents as possible for proof of age and identity. If any of these documents are not in English, you must submit a certified translated copy, along with the original.

If either the bride or groom has been married prior, the previously married person is required to furnish a certified copy of the Decree of Divorce or a Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage. Check with your attorney if you do not have a certified copy. Also, although physical exams were once required, they are no longer part of the application process (I’ve been asked this question on occasion).

The New York State license fee is $40 payable by cash or check. The license is issued immediately upon my signature; however, the marriage ceremony may not take place within 24 hours from the time it is issued, and the license is only valid for sixty (60) days from that period as well.

I understand that nobody has a 9-to-5 schedule anymore. So, I am keeping the office open until 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, and will also be open from 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Sunday, June 7, for those couples who find these hours more accommodating for obtaining a license.

If you or your future spouse have any questions, feel free to call our office at 914-670-3030 and we will be happy to help you. Also, anyone with a business in town that specializes in services for wedding ceremonies, please send us your business card or info and we will include it in our Wedding Album — a project I am creating for display during license visits so that future couples can view some local recommendations.

Congrats and hope to see you soon!