Courthouse Wedding
How to Plan a Courthouse Wedding: 10 Simple and Stress-Free Steps
Planning a courthouse wedding can be an intimate, budget-friendly, and elegant way to say “I do” without the complications of a traditional ceremony. Whether you’re looking for something low-key or a quick, no-fuss approach to getting married, a courthouse wedding offers an easy, streamlined process. This guide will walk you through the steps of planning a courthouse or city hall wedding, from understanding legal requirements to choosing your attire, so you can have the perfect day.
What is a Courthouse Wedding?
A courthouse wedding, also known as a civil wedding, is a legally binding ceremony performed by a government official, usually a judge or magistrate, at a courthouse or city hall. Unlike traditional weddings, which are often religious and involve many guests, courthouse weddings are simple, cost-effective, and typically attended by just a few close friends or family members.
For many couples, a courthouse marriage is an ideal choice. It allows you to skip much of the stress that comes with planning a large event and focus on what truly matters: making your union official.
How Do We Get Married at Courthouse?
If you’re considering getting married at the courthouse, it’s important to understand the process, which may vary slightly depending on your location. Whether you’re looking for a quick, no-fuss ceremony or an intimate alternative to a traditional wedding, here’s everything you need to know about getting married at the courthouse:
Decide on Your Location
The first step in planning your courthouse wedding is choosing where you’d like to get married. Not every courthouse offers wedding services, so you’ll need to research your local options. Consider factors like proximity, convenience, and the atmosphere of the courthouse. Many couples prefer a city hall wedding in a larger city for its iconic backdrop, while others choose a smaller courthouse for a quieter, more intimate setting.
Check Legal Requirements
Each state and county may have different requirements for getting a marriage license, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules in your area. Typically, you’ll need valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and proof of age. Some states have a waiting period between applying for and receiving the license, while others allow you to get it the same day. Also, double-check whether there are any residency requirements or if you’ll need additional documents like a birth certificate.
Schedule Your Appointment
Once you’ve decided on the courthouse, it’s time to schedule your wedding ceremony. Some courthouses allow walk-in weddings, but many require you to book an appointment in advance, especially if you’re planning to get married during a busy season or on a popular date. Check the courthouse’s calendar and make sure you leave enough time to obtain your marriage license before the ceremony.
Gather Necessary Documents
You’ll need to bring certain documents with you to both obtain your marriage license and to present at the courthouse on the day of your wedding. Make sure you have valid government-issued ID (for both of you), proof of residency if required, and your marriage license if you’ve already applied.
Choose Your Witnesses
Most courthouses require at least one or two witnesses to be present at the wedding. If you want to invite a close friend or family member to serve as a witness, make sure they are over 18 and available on your chosen wedding date. In some locations, the courthouse may provide witnesses for you, so be sure to ask in advance if you need one.
Plan Your Attire
Even though it’s a courthouse wedding, you can still make it special by choosing the right attire. The beauty of a courthouse wedding is the freedom to wear whatever makes you feel great. You can go as formal or casual as you like, from a traditional white wedding gown to a chic pantsuit or casual sundress. Grooms often opt for a suit or a stylish blazer and slacks. Just be sure to check if the courthouse has any dress code restrictions (though this is rare).
Consider Hiring a Photographer
Just because it’s a courthouse ceremony doesn’t mean you should skip capturing the memories! Hiring a photographer can help you preserve the special moments of your day. You can ask your photographer to take photos during the ceremony and then head outside the courthouse or to a nearby scenic spot for a fun photo session after the ceremony. If you prefer something simpler, ask a friend or family member to snap a few candid shots.
Invite a Small Group of Guests (Optional)
While courthouse weddings are typically small and intimate, you can still invite a few close friends or family members to share the day with you. Keep in mind that some courthouses have guest limits due to space constraints, so be sure to check how many people are allowed to attend. If your courthouse wedding will be just the two of you and your witnesses, you can always plan a small celebration with friends and family afterward.
Personalize the Ceremony
While courthouse weddings are generally short and formal, there are still ways to make the ceremony feel more personal. Some courthouses allow couples to exchange personal vows in addition to the standard ones, so check if this is an option for you. You might also want to bring small, meaningful elements into the ceremony, like exchanging rings, reading a favorite poem, or asking a close friend or family member to say a few words.
Celebrate Afterwards
After your courthouse wedding, plan a special way to celebrate your newlywed status! Many couples head out for a romantic dinner, host a small gathering with close friends and family, or plan a weekend getaway. Whether it’s a simple toast, a full reception, or an intimate dinner at your favorite restaurant, make sure to celebrate in a way that reflects your style and the significance of the day.
These 10 steps make the process of getting married at the courthouse straightforward and stress-free. From securing the right documents to adding personal touches, following these steps ensures that your courthouse wedding will be everything you want it to be—simple, meaningful, and memorable.
Courthouse Wedding Ceremony: What to Expect
A courthouse wedding ceremony is usually brief and straightforward, but it’s still a memorable occasion. Here’s what you can expect:
- Arrival: On the day of your wedding, arrive at the courthouse early. You’ll need time to check in and go through any necessary paperwork.
- Waiting Time: Depending on the courthouse and the time of day, there may be other couples getting married at the same time, so you might have a short wait.
- The Ceremony: Most courthouse ceremonies last about 10 to 15 minutes. The officiant will guide you through the process, ask if you have prepared vows, and then officially marry you.
- Celebration: After your ceremony, you can take photos outside the courthouse or at a nearby location. Many couples opt to have a small post-wedding celebration, like lunch or dinner with close friends and family.
Courthouse Wedding Attire: What Should You Wear?
One of the best things about a courthouse wedding is that you have complete freedom over what to wear. You can go as formal or as casual as you’d like. However, many couples still like to dress up for the occasion, even for a low-key ceremony. Here are some ideas for courthouse wedding attire:
- Bridal Attire: Some brides choose a simple white dress, while others opt for more casual attire like a jumpsuit or cocktail dress. You could also wear a tea-length dress, which is elegant yet practical. The key is to wear something that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful.
- Groom’s Attire: For grooms, a well-tailored suit or even a sharp blazer and trousers can look stylish and sophisticated. A courthouse wedding allows you to skip the traditional tuxedo, if that’s not your style.
- Accessorize Thoughtfully: Whether it’s a bouquet of flowers, a statement necklace, or a fun pair of shoes, you can add personal touches to your outfit to make it feel special.
Courthouse Wedding Dress: Finding the Perfect Look
Choosing the perfect courthouse wedding dress is an exciting part of planning your big day. Whether you prefer something sleek and modern or soft and romantic, there are plenty of options that fit a courthouse setting. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Minimalist Elegance: A simple, clean-cut dress with minimal embellishments works perfectly for a courthouse ceremony. Think about dresses with sleek lines and timeless silhouettes.
- Vintage Glam: If you love a bit of flair, consider a retro-inspired tea-length dress or something with lace and intricate details.
- Jumpsuits or Pantsuits: For brides who want something less traditional, jumpsuits or chic pantsuits are a stylish and unique alternative.
No matter what you choose, your courthouse wedding dress should make you feel like the best version of yourself.
How to Make Your Courthouse Wedding Special
Even though courthouse weddings are typically smaller and simpler than traditional ceremonies, there are plenty of ways to make the day special. Consider incorporating personal elements to make the day uniquely yours:
- Exchange Personal Vows: If the courthouse allows, writing your own vows is a great way to personalize your ceremony.
- Hire a Photographer: Having a professional photographer capture the moment can make your courthouse wedding feel even more memorable.
- Plan a Post-Wedding Celebration: After your ceremony, plan a fun outing or intimate reception to celebrate with close friends and family.
Can You Get Married at the Courthouse?
Yes, you absolutely can! Court house weddings are available for any couple wishing to marry legally without a traditional ceremony. All you need is a valid marriage license and the necessary identification. While courthouse weddings are often chosen for their simplicity and affordability, they can still be meaningful and special.
Whether you’re looking to elope or simply prefer the simplicity of a wedding at a courthouse, rest assured that your ceremony will be every bit as official as one held in a more formal setting. It’s a fantastic option for couples who want to bypass the pomp and circumstance while still marking their special day.
Can You Get Married at Your Local Courthouse?
In most cases, yes! You can usually get married at your local courthouse, provided it offers marriage services. Be sure to check ahead, as some courthouses may only offer specific days or times for weddings. If your local courthouse does not perform marriages, you may need to travel to a nearby city hall or courthouse.
Most courthouse marriages are simple affairs, held in small rooms or chambers. While the space may not have the grandeur of a traditional venue, many couples appreciate the intimate and low-pressure environment.
Planning a Courthouse Wedding
A courthouse wedding is the perfect option for couples who want a simple, meaningful, and affordable way to tie the knot. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate ceremony or simply prefer a low-stress approach to your big day, getting married at the courthouse allows you to focus on what truly matters: celebrating your love.
From applying for your marriage license to choosing the perfect courthouse wedding dress, every step of the process can be just as special as a traditional wedding—without the high costs or stressful planning. By following the 10 steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for a beautiful and stress-free wedding day.
No matter what your vision is for your wedding, the courthouse offers flexibility and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for couples seeking a more relaxed experience. With thoughtful planning, your courthouse ceremony will be a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Whether you choose to exchange vows in front of just a few loved ones or celebrate quietly as a couple, your wedding day will be uniquely yours.
