In order to be in a legally binding marriage, a marriage license is a necessity. In Milwaukee, licenses can be obtained from The Office of the County Clerk.

The time frame for applying for a marriage license is at least eight days before the wedding ceremony, but no more than 30 days prior. The fee for a marriage license is $100 at the time of applying and it must be in cash.

It's best to be prepared before going in to apply for the license. Here are the requirements for Milwaukee County:

• Bride and Groom must apply together.

• A certified birth certificate is required from both parties and no copies are allowed.

• Proof of residency with a current address -- at least 30 days -- must be shown in Milwaukee County.

• If the bride or groom has been in a previous marriage, proof of divorce, legal annulment or a certified death certificate must be shown. (Wisconsin law also states that six months since the date of the divorce was granted need to have elapsed before it's possible apply for a new marriage license).

• Both bride and groom must bring in their Social Security cards.

• The full name, address and phone number of the person performing the wedding ceremony must be supplied.