Love is in the air—and now, thanks to New Hampshire’s newest contest, it’s about to be in full color too.
To celebrate the 139th wedding anniversary of one of the state’s earliest married couples, Moses and Hannah Colby of Salisbury, the State of New Hampshire is launching its first-ever Heirloom Marriage Certificate Design Contest.
But wait—marriage certificates now have designs?
They sure do! Let’s break down what an heirloom marriage certificate is, why it’s not the same as a certified copy, and why you might want both hanging on your wall.
New Hampshire Joins States Offering Keepsake Marriage Certificates
You’re not dreaming—marriage certificates are getting a charming makeover across the country. New Hampshire is the latest state to join others, such as Alaska, Iowa, Florida, and Colorado, which already offer decorative marriage certificates that make for perfect keepsake memory books.
In Alaska, couples can choose from artistic heirloom marriage certificate designs themed options like McKinley Moonlight or Ravens in Love—available for order by the couple or their loved ones. These aren’t legal documents, but beautiful artistic versions meant for display.
Meanwhile, in Iowa, you can order a stunning commemorative marriage certificate featuring a gold foil border, a calligraphy-style print, and images like the state capital. The Governor and the State Registrar sign each one, embossed with official seals, and delivered in a protective envelope—ready to be framed on the day you said “I do”.
Over in Florida, the state’s Vital Statistics bureau offers commemorative certificates signed by the Governor and State Registrar, explicitly intended as framed heirlooms—not legal paperwork. They cost around $30 and are available only for marriages recorded in the state.
Now, New Hampshire residents who win the design contest will see their creation become the official heirloom certificate statewide in 2026. This means couples can soon order a beautifully designed New Hampshire heirloom certificate—official artwork celebrating their marriage alongside their certified legal copy.
What’s the Buzz? New Hampshire’s Design Contest
New Hampshire is inviting residents to help design the state’s very first heirloom marriage certificate. The contest launched on June 6, 2025—the 139th wedding anniversary of a couple from Salisbury, NH—and closes on September 5.
Here’s what to know if you’re thinking of submitting a design:
- You must be 18 or older and a New Hampshire resident
- Designs must be secular (non-religious)
- The design should highlight the spirit of New Hampshire
- It must be an original creation
The winning design will be used statewide by the New Hampshire Department of State. Whether you’re a professional designer or a passionate creative, this is your chance to become part of the Granite State’s history.
Certified Marriage Certificate: The Official One
Let’s start with the basics. A certified marriage certificate is the legal document that proves you’re married. This is the one you’ll need if you want to:
- Change your last name on your ID or passport
- Add your spouse to your health insurance
- Apply for a mortgage
- Handle taxes or estate matters
It’s issued by the state or county vital records office and comes with security features such as watermarks, raised seals, or signatures. It’s serious stuff—and essential for navigating legal life as a married couple. If you need to prove you’re married, you need a certified copy.
Heirloom Marriage Certificate: The Pretty One
Now for the fun part! An heirloom marriage certificate is a decorative, commemorative version of your marriage certificate. It’s not legally valid—so don’t try using it to change your last name—but it’s perfect for:
- Framing and displaying in your home
- Giving as a first anniversary gift (paper anniversary, anyone?)
- Including it in a wedding scrapbook or memory box
- Replacing that boring printout with something a little more Pinterest-worthy
New Hampshire’s upcoming heirloom design will join a growing trend of states offering these keepsake versions—think colorful art, calligraphy, and design details that make it feel special.
Why You Might Want Both
Here’s the thing: you don’t have to choose between practical and pretty—you can have both. Use your certified marriage certificate for all your official needs. Keep your heirloom certificate for the sentimental ones. They each serve a different purpose, and both help celebrate your marriage in their way.
How to Get Them
Certified Copy
To request a certified marriage certificate, go through your state’s vital records office. You’ll typically need:
- A completed application
- Proof of identity
- A small fee
You can also use a trusted online service, such as Vital Records Online, to guide you through the process step-by-step, securely and conveniently.
Heirloom Copy
Once New Hampshire finalizes its heirloom design after the contest, you’ll be able to order one directly from the state, likely through the same office that handles vital records. Other states already offer heirloom birth or marriage certificates with unique state-specific artwork.
Please note: Although it’s decorative, you may still be required to present identification or provide proof of being listed on the original marriage certificate to place an order.
A New Chapter for Marriage Certificates
New Hampshire’s heirloom marriage certificate contest is more than just a design competition—it’s part of a growing movement to make vital records more personal. Legal documents don’t have to be boring, and celebrating life milestones like marriage deserves something beautiful.
So, if you’re newly married (or just nostalgic), consider adding an heirloom certificate to your keepsake box. And don’t forget to hang onto that certified copy—you never know when the DMV will ask to see it.