One thing’s for sure, getting married on Ocracoke offers a variety of settings for everything from the ceremony and reception to the honeymoon bridal suite.

Whether you decide to be barefoot on the beach or tie the knot in the shadow of the oldest operating lighthouse on the eastern seaboard, or even if you prefer a more intimate setting in one of the village churches – your Ocracoke wedding is sure to be a memorable occasion.

However, the very things that make Ocracoke a unique location also present challenges to the wedding planner. It is wise to consider that our remoteness often creates a lack of services and conveniences. Our businesses are more than will-ing to work with you, but they must work within their limited resources. Keep this in mind as you are making your plans, and your wedding will be the happy event you intended when you chose Ocracoke in the first place.

Ocracoke is in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, so getting married on the beach or the grounds at the Ocracoke Lighthouse requires a Special Use Permit. The current $100.00 fee is nonrefundable, so applicants are encouraged to wait until thirty days before the ceremony. The request must be in writing, and there are several requirements that must be adhered to. The permit is good only for four hours (two hours on each side of the stated ceremony time). For more information, call the Special Use Coordinator at 252-473-2111, x121.

Ocracoke Wedding Resources

Click Here to View an Adobe .pdf of Ocracoke Wedding Resources for Apparel, Associations, Caterers/OnSite Receptions, Florists, Hair Stylists/Salons/Spas, Jewelry, Ministers, Musicians, Photographers/Videographers, Planners, Supplies/Equipment, Wedding Cake Bakers & Wedding Locations.

We would like to thank Sunny Day Guide for the use of the information found in our Wedding Planner. They are the publishers of our very informative Visitor's Guide.

Marriage License Requirements

Marriage licenses must be obtained from a NC Register of Deeds Office. The license can be obtained in any county in NC and the ceremony performed in another county; however, the license must be returned to the issuing county. No waiting period is required before the ceremony may take place. The license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued. The cost is $50.00. Proofs and requirements may vary from county to county.

Prior to their arrival, applicants should call the Register of Deeds Office in the county where they plan to purchase the license to ascertain all requirements.

Any magistrate or ordained minister may perform the marriage ceremony. There must be two witnesses at any marriage ceremony, whether it is civil or religious. After the ceremony, whom ever performs the ceremony is required to give the couple a marriage certificate. The minister or magistrate must sign the license and return it to the Register of Deeds Office in the issuing county.

Helpful Contact Information:

Hyde County Register of Deeds Office:

• Swan Quarter (Mainland) 252-926-4182

Clergy:

• Assembly of God 252-928-9011
• Catholic 252-928-1661/3543
• Interfaith/Creative 252-928-1311
• Nondenominational 252-928-7213
• United Methodist 252-928-4211

Magistrates:

• Lonnie Burrus 252-928-5381
• John Fletcher 252-928-413