Skyrim Marriage Guide: How To Tie The Knot

To begin your journey of marital bliss in Skyrim, first, you should secure an Amulet of Mara. Amulet of Mara serves as a symbol of your interest in marriage to potential partners. Once the amulet is acquired, you need to find a suitable NPC who is willing to marry the Dragonborn, increasing the character’s immersion. After discovering a compatible NPC, proceed to the Temple of Mara in Riften to arrange your marriage, because Temple of Mara functions as the central location for marriage ceremonies. If you are successful in that step, you are prepared to participate in the Skyrim wedding ceremony, formalizing your union with your chosen partner in the game world.

Finding Love and Loyalty in Skyrim: A Beginner’s Guide to Tying the Knot

Skyrim, the land of dragons, magic, and… marriage? That’s right, Dragonborn! Amidst all the adventuring, dungeon crawling, and shouting at giants, you can actually find love and companionship. Who knew?

The marriage feature in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim isn’t just a tacked-on mechanic; it’s a fully integrated system that adds depth and a personal touch to your gameplay experience. Forget solitary quests and lonely nights in a Whiterun tavern; with a spouse by your side, your adventures become all the more meaningful (and profitable, wink wink). Think of it as upgrading from a lone wolf to a dynamic duo.

But why bother getting hitched in a virtual world? Well, for starters, it’s an amazing opportunity for role-playing! Imagine crafting a backstory where your character is searching for love after a traumatic event or perhaps seeking a powerful ally through marriage. The possibilities are endless, and the emotional connections you can forge with your chosen spouse (even if they’re just pixels) can be surprisingly rewarding.

Beyond the warm fuzzy feelings, marriage in Skyrim actually comes with some sweet gameplay benefits. Your spouse can open a shop, providing you with a steady stream of income, and they’ll even cook you meals that boost your stats! Plus, having someone who always has your back in a dragon fight is never a bad thing. Talk about a win-win situation!

Now, who are the most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes in Skyrim? Well, that’s a matter of personal preference. Some players go for the fierce warriors like Aela the Huntress, while others prefer the wise mages like Brelyna Maryon. Then there are those who simply want someone reliable and hardworking, like Lydia (your housecarl). Each spouse has their own unique personality, skills, and background, so choosing the right one is a fun and important decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours, Dragonborn.

Preparing for the Proposal: Essential Prerequisites

Alright, Dragonborn, so you’ve decided to settle down and find that special someone in the vast lands of Skyrim? Smart move! But before you go shouting sweet nothings from the Throat of the World, there are a few essential steps you need to take. Think of it as preparing for the ultimate quest – the quest for love (and maybe someone to cook you dinner after a long day of slaying dragons).

This preparation primarily involves procuring the Amulet of Mara, visiting Riften, and, most importantly, speaking to Maramal at the Temple of Mara. Let’s get you ready for your big day!

Obtaining the Amulet of Mara

So, you’re wondering what the Amulet of Mara is? Well, it’s not just any old piece of jewelry. This little trinket is basically a “I’m single and ready to mingle” sign in Skyrim. Wearing it lets potential spouses know you’re on the market. Without it, you might as well be yelling at a frost troll – no one’s going to get the message.

There are a few ways to get your hands on this must-have amulet:

• Buying it from Maramal: This is the easiest and most common method. Head to Riften’s Temple of Mara, find Maramal (we’ll talk more about him later), and he’ll gladly sell you the amulet for a reasonable price (usually around 200 gold). Consider it an investment in your future happiness!
• Quest Reward: Although less common, you might find the Amulet of Mara as a reward for completing certain quests. Keep an eye out for quests involving helping others with their relationships or acts of kindness.

Visiting Riften: The City of Opportunity

Now, why Riften? Well, Riften is the heart of the marriage process in Skyrim. It’s a city known for its… entrepreneurial spirit (some might call it thievery). It’s also where you’ll find the Temple of Mara, the central hub for all things marriage.

The city itself has a unique atmosphere, full of shady characters, bustling markets, and a distinct autumn feel. Don’t let the Thieves Guild deter you; Riften is also a place of opportunity, especially when it comes to finding love. Key locations to remember are the marketplace, the Bee and Barb Inn (a good place to pick up rumors), and, of course, the Temple of Mara.

The Temple of Mara: Where Love Begins

Nestled within Riften’s walls is the Temple of Mara, a beacon of hope for lonely hearts across Skyrim. It’s hard to miss – just look for the grand building dedicated to the goddess of love, Mara. This is where you’ll find Maramal, the priest who oversees the marriage ceremonies.

Maramal is your go-to guy for understanding the ins and outs of Skyrim marriage. Talking to him is crucial; he’ll explain the entire process, from the significance of the Amulet of Mara to the responsibilities that come with marriage. He’s basically the wedding planner of Skyrim. So, head to the Temple of Mara, find Maramal, and listen carefully – your future happiness depends on it!

Starting Your Journey to Wedded Bliss: Initiating the Marriage Quest

Alright, you’ve got the Amulet of Mara swinging jauntily around your neck, and you’ve absorbed all the romantic vibes Riften has to offer. Now it’s time to officially kick off your journey down the aisle (or, well, the stone-paved path to the Temple of Mara). This is where you’ll actually begin the marriage quest and start thinking seriously about who you want to spend your days adventuring—and sharing your hard-earned gold—with.

Speaking with Maramal: Understanding the Rituals

Remember good ol’ Maramal? He’s not just there for decoration; he’s your guide to all things matrimonial in Skyrim. Chatting with him is essential. Initiate a conversation about marriage, and he’ll lay out the nitty-gritty details. Be prepared to learn about the expectations and responsibilities that come with tying the knot in Skyrim.

Now, let’s talk cost. Like any good wedding, there’s a fee involved. It’s not going to break the bank, but you should be prepared to shell out a bit of gold. Think of it as an investment in your future happiness! Maramal will explain what’s expected of a married couple in Skyrim, so listen closely. It’s not just about slaying dragons together; it’s about building a life together (and maybe deciding who does the dishes).

Finding Your Perfect Match: Potential Spouses in Skyrim

Okay, this is the fun part! Skyrim is full of eligible bachelors and bachelorettes, each with their own unique charm (and set of skills). Finding the right one can feel like a quest in itself, so let’s break down some options.

Nordic Heartthrobs (and Heartbreakers)

• Aela the Huntress: A fierce warrior of the Companions. If you’re looking for someone who can handle themselves in a fight and enjoys a good howl at the moon, Aela might be your soulmate.
• Farkas: Another member of the Companions, Farkas is a strong and loyal (if slightly dim) warrior. He’s the kind of spouse who will always have your back, even if he doesn’t quite understand the plan.

Elven Elegance

• Brelyna Maryon: A Dunmer mage from the College of Winterhold. If you’re into casting spells and experimenting with magic, Brelyna could be your intellectual equal and a fascinating companion.

Beastly Beauties

• Mjoll the Lioness: A Nord warrior with a strong sense of justice. If you’re looking for someone who is brave, principled, and always ready to fight for what’s right (even if it means disagreeing with you), Mjoll might be your ideal partner.

Criteria to Consider

When choosing a spouse, think about what’s important to you. Do you want someone who is a skilled fighter? A powerful mage? A wealthy merchant? Or are you more interested in personality and companionship? Consider these questions:

• Combat Prowess: Do they have skills that complement your own?
• Personality: Do you get along with them? Do you share similar interests?
• Location: Are you willing to travel to their location to woo them?
• Unique Quests: Does marrying them unlock any special quests or benefits?

Important Note: Some spouses have unique quests you need to complete before they become marriageable. For example, you may need to help them with a personal problem or complete a favor for them.

Arranging the Wedding: Confirming Your Commitment

Alright, so you’ve popped the question (or rather, showed off that shiny Amulet of Mara) and found someone who’s willing to spend their days adventuring (and maybe cooking) alongside you. Now comes the slightly less romantic, but equally important, part: making it official with good ol’ Maramal.

Head back to the Temple of Mara in Riften and have a chat with him. Let him know you’ve found your soulmate (or at least someone who doesn’t mind your dragon-slaying habit). You’ll need to confirm your choice with him, basically saying, “Yep, this is the one!” Once you’ve done that, Maramal will set the wheels in motion.

Now, patience, young adventurer! There’s a 24-hour waiting period before the ceremony can begin. This is Skyrim time, mind you, so find a comfy chair, do some crafting, or maybe take on a quick quest. Just don’t wander off too far and forget about your big day! Think of it as the Skyrim equivalent of a bachelor/bachelorette party, only less…boisterous.

Finally, and this is crucial, arrive at the Temple of Mara on time! The ceremony starts promptly at dawn the next day. Don’t be late, or your betrothed might think you’ve gotten cold feet (or were eaten by a troll – either is possible in Skyrim). Set an alarm, fast travel – do whatever it takes to be there when the sun rises!

The Ceremony Event: A Sacred Union

As you step into the Temple of Mara for your wedding, take a moment to soak it all in. The atmosphere is surprisingly touching, with soft lighting, gentle music, and an overall feeling of…well, love! Even in the harsh world of Skyrim, there’s room for a little romance.

Maramal will be waiting patiently at the altar, ready to guide you through the ceremony. The dialogue is pretty straightforward, a few vows here and there, and a confirmation of your commitment to each other. It’s not exactly Shakespeare, but it’s heartfelt enough to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. You will hear Maramal speak the following words to you: “We gather here today, under the sight of Mara, goddess of love, to join these two in wedlock. Let all assembled bear witness to this union.”

Look around, and you might even spot some familiar faces in the crowd. Friends, family, perhaps even a Jarl or two might attend your wedding. They’re there to show their support and celebrate your union. After the ceremony, you will be able to speak with your attendees where you will be given gifts.

Happily Ever After? Post-Marriage Life and Benefits

So, you’ve tied the knot, tossed the bouquet (figuratively, of course), and are officially hitched in the wild world of Skyrim. Congratulations, Dragonborn! But what happens after the “I do’s”? Fear not, because married life in Skyrim offers some pretty sweet perks, a roof over your head, and maybe even some rugrats running around if you’re feeling ambitious. Let’s dive into the benefits of being a spouse in Skyrim, shall we?

Spouse Benefits: Sharing is Caring

Marriage in Skyrim isn’t just about love, it’s also about cold, hard cash! One of the best perks is that your spouse will open up a little shop and share their profits with you. Think of it as a daily allowance for being an awesome husband or wife (or both – Skyrim doesn’t judge!). Just pop in for a visit and they’ll hand over a cut of their earnings. Sweet!

But wait, there’s more! Forget microwave dinners; your spouse will also cook you home-cooked meals. These aren’t just any meals, mind you. They provide useful buffs to your skills, giving you that extra edge when facing down a dragon or dungeon-crawling. A full belly makes for a happy (and powerful) Dragonborn.

And speaking of comfort, sleeping near your spouse grants you the “Lover’s Comfort” bonus. This is a special resting bonus that gives you a whopping 15% skill increase. It’s like the best power nap ever, fueled by love (and pixels).

Finally, if you’re ever in a pinch, remember that your spouse can also become a follower. That’s right, they’ll grab a weapon and join you in combat. Talk about a supportive partner!

Choosing Your Home: Houses and Hearthfire

Now that you’re a married adventurer, it’s time to settle down and pick a place to call home. Skyrim offers several houses you can purchase, from the cozy Breezehome in Whiterun to the grand Proudspire Manor in Solitude. Each house offers its own advantages, so choose wisely based on your needs and personal style.

But if you’re feeling creative, and have the Hearthfire DLC, you can build your own house from the ground up! You’ll start with a humble homestead and slowly expand it into a mansion, complete with gardens, a laboratory, and even an armory. It’s like “Extreme Home Makeover: Skyrim Edition”!

The Hearthfire DLC also allows you to adopt children. If you and your spouse are looking to expand your family, you can adopt up to two kids from orphanages or the streets of Skyrim. Just be prepared for a lot of running around and requests for sweetrolls.

Once you’ve got your house, it’s time to decorate! You can customize your home with furniture, decorations, and trophies from your adventures.

The Honeymoon Phase: Settling into Married Life

After the wedding, there’s a little honeymoon period where you’ll experience some unique interactions and routines with your spouse. Expect some affectionate dialogue and maybe even a small gift or two. They might comment on your adventures or share stories from their past. It’s a great way to bond and learn more about the person you’ve chosen to spend your days (and nights) with.

Life with your spouse will become part of your routine, adding a sense of stability to your Dragonborn’s life. Come home after a long day of adventuring, and you’ll find a warm meal waiting, someone to share your stories with, and a comfy bed to rest in. It may not be as exciting as slaying dragons, but it sure beats sleeping in a bandit-infested cave!

Spouse Disappearance: Where Did They Go?

Okay, so you’ve tied the knot, settled into married life, and everything’s peachy… until your beloved spouse suddenly vanishes. Don’t panic! This is a surprisingly common occurrence in the wilds of Skyrim. There are a few likely culprits for your spouse’s sudden vanishing act:

• Glitches: Ah yes, the infamous Skyrim glitches. Sometimes your spouse just poofs out of existence due to a hiccup in the game’s code. It happens to the best of us (and the best-programmed games, apparently).
• Combat Casualties: Did you recently take your spouse on a dragon-slaying adventure? Even though they’re (hopefully) a competent warrior, they can still get knocked down in battle and, well, sometimes they don’t get back up. Harsh, I know!

So, how do you find your missing better half? Here’s a step-by-step guide to tracking them down:

1. Check Their Default Location: Every spouse has a default location – either their original home or the home you’ve shared with them. Fast travel there and see if they’ve wandered back. Sometimes, they just needed a little alone time.
2. Retrace Your Steps: If you last saw them on an adventure, try retracing your steps. They might be stuck somewhere along the way, battling a rogue mudcrab or admiring the scenery a little too long.
3. Waiting (and Waiting): Sometimes, the game just needs a nudge. Try waiting for a few in-game days (using the wait function). This can reset their AI and get them moving again. Patience, young Padawan.
4. Console Commands (PC Only): If you’re playing on PC, you can use console commands to teleport your spouse to your location. Open the console (usually with the ~ key), type prid <refID>, and then type moveto player. You’ll need to find your spouse’s RefID first, which you can usually find on the Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages website. Console commands are your friend!

Divorce and Remarriage: Is it Possible?

Let’s face it: sometimes love fades, even in Skyrim. Maybe your spouse keeps nagging you about leaving their armor on the floor, or perhaps you’ve just found a new dragonborn to steal your heart. So, can you get a divorce and remarry in Skyrim?

The short answer is: not really, not without help. Divorce isn’t a standard feature in the base game. But where there’s a will, there’s a way, thanks to the wonderful world of mods and console commands!

• Console Commands (Again, PC Only): Technically, you can use console commands to remove your spouse from your life (permanently, if you catch my drift) and then remarry. However, this is a very messy process and can cause all sorts of glitches. Proceed with caution, and back up your save first!
• Mods: The Savior of Broken Hearts: Several mods are available that add a proper divorce system to Skyrim. These mods usually involve a questline, some dialogue, and maybe even a bit of legal wrangling. They’re a much cleaner and more immersive way to end your marital woes. Highly recommended if you’re serious about moving on. Just search for “divorce mod Skyrim” on NexusMods or your favorite mod site.

Important Note: Messing around with console commands and mods can sometimes cause unexpected issues. Always save your game before making any changes, and be prepared to troubleshoot if things go wrong.

---

Disclaimer: This information is based on general knowledge of Skyrim and its modding community. Specific mods and their features may vary. Always read the mod descriptions carefully before installing them.

So there you have it! Getting hitched in Skyrim is more about dragons and quests than RSVP cards and seating charts. Now, go forth, find your pixelated sweetheart, and may your adventures together be filled with more treasure than trouble!