30-Day Timeline for a Civil Wedding

A one month runway is enough for a simple civil wedding if you map out documents, posting dates, and supplier bookings early. If you want hands on help with queues and schedules, a trusted planner and coordinator can keep your paperwork and timeline moving.

How to use this timeline

• Dates assume you can gather PSA documents quickly and your LCR follows a 10 day posting period.
• If you are unsure about requirements, skim the Civil Wedding Requirements – Complete Checklist for a quick audit before you line up.
• Ages 18 to 25 should confirm whether parental consent or advice applies. Details live in Parental Consent vs Parental Advice.

Week 1 Day 1 to Day 4 set up and file

Day 1
List required IDs and PSA documents. Order any missing copies. Block a half day for errands.

Day 2
Book or attend premarriage counseling if your LCR requires it. Prepare two ID photos per person following LCR specs.

Day 3
Complete the Marriage License application. Photocopy everything twice. Place originals and photocopies in separate folders.

Day 4
File at your Local Civil Registry and pay fees. Ask for the exact release date after the 10 day posting period. If you need a reminder of the rules around validity and where to apply, the Marriage License guide has the essentials.

Week 2 Day 5 to Day 14 posting period

Day 5 to Day 7
Hold your ceremony date with an officiant and confirm jurisdiction for your chosen venue. Create a short guest and witness list.

Day 8 to Day 10
Line up simple coverage. A dependable photographer can offer a two hour package for City Hall rites. Prepare attire and rings. Draft a 30 minute program and assign a point person to manage documents on the day.

Day 11 to Day 14
Double check witness IDs and transport. Prepare a small contingency plan for weather and traffic. If you plan a quick meal after the rite, pencil options and head counts.

Week 3 Day 15 claim and confirm

Day 15
Claim your Marriage License. Photograph the license for your records. Reconfirm ceremony time, location pin, and officiant details.

Day 16 to Day 18
Finalize contract pages, program script, and seating or standing plan if needed. Touch base with family members who will sign or speak.

Day 19 to Day 21
Pack a clear folder with IDs, license, pens, and receipts. Prepare tip envelopes and settle any balances.

Week 4 Day 22 to Day 30 ceremony and registration

Day 22 to Day 26
Run a brief rehearsal at home using your script and timing. Check outfits and do a steam or press as needed.

Day 27 or chosen date
Ceremony day checklist

• Bring IDs, Marriage License, rings, and contract pages
• Have two witnesses of legal age with IDs
• Keep a copy of your program for the officiant
• Assign one person to handle documents from signing to handoff

Day 28 to Day 30
Coordinate with the officiant or authorized representative for filing with the LCR that has jurisdiction over the venue. Track when certified copies will be available and when PSA encoding typically appears.

Day by day quick view

• D1 gather and order PSA docs
• D2 counseling if required
• D3 complete forms and photocopy
• D4 file at LCR and pay fees
• D5–14 posting and supplier bookings
• D15 claim license
• D16–21 finalize program and packs
• D22–26 rehearse and prep outfits
• D27 ceremony and signing
• D28–30 LCR registration follow up

Budget and buffer tips

• Add a small reserve for photocopies, courier, and last minute ID photos
• Build time buffers around holidays and peak days at City Hall
• Keep digital scans of all documents in a shared folder

Lightweight add ons that elevate the day

• A simple bouquet and minimal styling can go a long way. Browse ideas with friendly florists and event stylists.
• If you plan a quick toast after the ceremony, shortlist a cozy reception venue within 15 minutes of your LCR or City Hall.

After the ceremony

• Confirm when local copies will be ready and typical timing for PSA availability.
• If you will change your surname or update records, list agencies in order of priority and prepare ID photos in advance.

Packing list for the day

• Valid IDs for both of you and your witnesses
• Marriage License and contract pages
• Rings, pen, small envelope for receipts
• Program printout, phone with shot list, light snacks and water

Final checks before you go

• Share the location pin and parking plan with witnesses
• Keep a paper and digital copy of your license and IDs
• Prepare a simple, photogenic corner for signing if you are at home or a private space

Wrap it up and enjoy

End the day with a few keepsake clips from a capable videographer if budget allows. For deeper planning references after this timeline, the full workflow lives in the Civil Weddings in the Philippines – Requirements, Costs, and Step by Step Process.