Licenses, not just for driving!

Licenses - sometimes when we think of permits and licenses it gets frightening and intimidating. Yes, sometimes this is accurate, however, when it comes to our wedding licenses it really is simple and straightforward.

A special occasions license is sometimes required at places where you least expect it! As you know, at outdoor weddings you will, however most will ask that there be a structure at your venue to ensure that there are appropriate places for serving. Most halls also require a license as they are there to accommodate everyone and normally do not have these items on site. Venues themselves normally have their own licensing and insurance being as this is something that is a consistent service, but don’t get me wrong, you will find the odd venue that still requires this if they do not have a permanent liquor license on site.

Photo Courtesy of Milestone Events. (Photographer: Suzanne Le Stage)

So how do you apply for this license?

1. Head down to your local BC Liquor store to apply. The person applying must be Serving It Right Certified. The customer service rep will be able to assist you in filling out your application.
2. Once the application is complete you will then have to submit it to your local police department where your event is being held for approval. Approval could take days.
3. Once approved by the local police they will return the application to you with their stamp which you will return to the liquor store for final submission. The customer service rep will then FINALLY issue you a Special Occasions License.

We highly recommend obtaining your liquor license a couple months before your event date so you can focus on all the fun parts of the planning closer to the date!

Here is a link to the Special Occasions License Brochure from the BC Liquor Stores. It will provide you will all the details you need, and even assist you in calculating alcohol quantities encase you don’t have someone else like your planner guiding you through the process!

http://www.bcliquorstores.com/files/LDB_SOL_brochure.pdf

Now onto the easy one, your marriage license! Thank you technology because it is now just a mouse click away! Remember your marriage license is good for three months, so it’s best to be prepared. It is only $100 dollars and filling out your information, no trying to coordinate work schedules, the link below will take you right there!

http://www.vs.gov.bc.ca/marriage/howto.html#apply

Now if only everything to do with your wedding was just a click of a button! Please know that there is always someone to help walk you to the aisle even though these items that can sometimes be intimidating. I hope this week's information helps some of you a little more and next week we get back to the more wedding tips! 

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.