Marriage Licenses. How early?

1 month before. No need to do any earlier.

You should call the EXACT OFFICE that will be issuing your license; even in NJ where the town of residence is usually where you get it, each town will be a bit different in the way they schedule appointments (or if they need them at all), the ID required and how to pick it up. In one town, I was allowed to pick up the license for my out of state couples; in another, no one but the couple could. Make sure you have EVERYTHING you need so you get this in ONE visit.

Do NOT wait until the last week. Things happen; snow (closed offices) hurricanes (closed offices), emergencies (closed offices......)

And then, of course, bring it to the ceremony.

NC, sixty days

I think we have a 30 day window. I'll probably get it 3 weeks before.

FL residents have a 3-day waiting period between picking up the license and using it.

Non-residents don't have to wait -- they can get married the same day they apply for/get the license.

License is good for 60 days and must be returned to the same county courthouse that issued it within 10 days after the wedding.