FAQ's Marriage & Renewal Ceremony
- What is the charge for Pastor Greg’s service?
Pastor Greg does not charge a set fee for this ministry service. He relies on the Lord and the love of God's people to meet his needs. A gratuity, or love offering for his service is greatly appreciated.
- Does Pastor Greg have certain guidelines and convictions?
Pastor Greg does not endorse, or perform the following: 1) same sex marriage; and 2) the union of Christian to non-Christian* (See Disclaimer at page end).
- How do I obtain a Marriage License?
Couples must have a Tennessee marriage license to be married in Tennessee, but the process is very easy. Simply appear in person at any Tennessee County Clerk's office or one of the Marriage License Centers in Sevier County. No appointment is necessary.
Both the bride and the groom must appear in person and present a valid photo ID such as a driver's license or a passport. Both must also present a social security card or other ssn documentation. Both parties must be at least 18 years of age. If either applicant is under age 18, please call the Marriage License Center for additional instructions.
Due to Sevier County's tourism status, the cost of a marriage license in Sevier County for out-of-state couples is either $38.50 in cash or $45.50 with either Mastercard or Visa. Out-of-state couples may purchase a marriage license in any other county in Tennessee, but it will cost approximately $60 more. Marriage licenses are only valid for thirty days.
Couples who reside in Tennessee pay a fee of $98.50 in cash or $105.50 with credit card (Sevier County rate; rates may vary slightly in other TN counties). In-state couples who complete a four-hour premarital preparation course can receive a $60 credit with proper documentation. (Note that the premarital course option only applies to couples who live in Tennessee.) Please call the Marriage License Center for more information.
No witness is needed for the marriage to be recognized, but there is room on the Tennessee marriage license for one optional witness to sign.
You may also fill out a pre-application on-line and save a lot of time when you go pick up your license. A link to that site is included on our links page
Here is the contact information for the Marriage License Centers
Sevier County Courthouse (Website)
125 Court Avenue
Sevierville, TN 37862
865/453-5502
HOURS:
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Gatlinburg Shilling Center
405 Reagan Drive
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865/430-3404
HOURS:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Closed Tuesday and Thursday
Saturday: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Pigeon Forge City Hall
300 Pine Mountain Road
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
865/908-6613
HOURS:
Saturday only: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Please call for holiday hours as these will vary.
- Where can we be married?
Pastor Greg will come to any place within the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville area to perform your ceremony. Some popular places include: the Old Mill, Patriot Park Gazebo, various covered bridges, in your cabin, along a babbling stream, etc.
NOTE: Due to the regulations and fees associated with performing marriage/renewal ceremonies, Pastor Greg cannot perform the ceremony within the Park.
- What type of ceremony can we expect?
Pastor Greg will perform a non-denominational type wedding. This includes prayer, scripture reading, exchange of vows and rings, blessing of the union and presentation of the couple. However, you may choose to write and present your own wedding/renewal ceremony, along with a unity candle, etc. It is your special day, so why not make it special!
- What other services do you provide?
Pastor Greg will arrive approximately 30 minutes prior to the commencement of the ceremony. He will work with the caterers, florist, etc. and try to answer any questions or concerns you may have. After the ceremony, Pastor Greg will sign your license and return it to the Sevier County Courthouse and file it.
If you prefer, Pastor Greg will take some photo's of your special day with his or your camera.
- Disclaimer: Pastor Greg reserves all rights to refuse to perform any ceremony that is contrary to his code of ethics and moral standards as established in the Holy Scriptures.