Belleville Mayor Officiates His First Wedding, Opens Door For More

BELLEVILLE, NJ — There are lots of stressful aspects to being mayor of a New Jersey town. One of the perks? Officiating a wedding.

Belleville Mayor Frank Vélez recently shared a post about a new milestone in his political career, noting that he "had the honor of officiating my first wedding."

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"Congratulations to the newlyweds, Frances and Christopher, and thank you for allowing me to be part of such a meaningful milestone in your lives," he wrote. "Wishing you a lifetime of love, happiness and good health!"

Vélez said it's a privilege to be asked to participate in a couple's special day – and opened the door for more such occasions.

According to Vélez, he's willing to officiate other local wedding ceremonies. Interested parties can contact the mayor's office at fvelez@bellevillenj.org for scheduling and availability.

Couples must also coordinate with Belleville Vital Statistics at 973-450-3400 or 973-450-3401 to complete the required marriage license application and issuance process, he noted.

As per the municipal website, here's what to know about obtaining a marriage license from the Township of Belleville (applications must be made at least 30 days prior):

• Bride or groom must live in Belleville and show proof of residency
• Must have name and phone number of person performing ceremony
• Date and place the marriage will take place
• Both bride and groom must apply in person
• Both bride and groom must have birth certificates, which should be translated if necessary
• If applicable, divorce papers, death certificates or certificate of civil union or domestic partnership must be presented
• Bring one witness when you apply who knows both of you, is 18 years of age or older, is able to read, write and understand English, and has proper ID with address
• There is a three-day waiting period from the day of application
• License may only be used in the state of new jersey within 30 days of issue

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