Honor Your Love Story with a Courthouse Wedding
There’s something beautifully romantic about stripping a wedding back to what matters most: the two of you. Whether the idea of planning a year-long wedding feels overwhelming or you simply want to fast-forward into married life, a courthouse wedding could be the perfect choice. Far from being a “lesser” option, courthouse weddings are a growing trend — and for good reason. They’re intimate, budget-friendly, and surprisingly versatile. With the right planning, your courthouse ceremony can be just as meaningful and memorable as any grand celebration.
The key to a perfect courthouse wedding is doing your homework early. Requirements vary widely depending on where you live, so understanding the rules in advance will save you from any last-minute stress. You’ll also want to get comfortable with the idea that you can’t choose your officiant — but the good news is that civil ceremony officials are typically well-practiced professionals who do this every day.
Ready to get started? Here’s everything you need to know to plan a courthouse wedding that feels authentically you.
What to Know About Courthouse Weddings in 2026
Courthouse weddings have surged in popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why.
They offer simplicity, cost savings, and an intimate atmosphere that puts the focus squarely on the couple.
A typical courthouse ceremony involves a civil officiant — such as a judge, justice of the peace, notary, or city clerk — presiding over your vows inside a courthouse or civic building. The ceremony itself usually lasts between 10 and 30 minutes, and most courthouses allow a small number of guests to witness the moment.
That said, the experience can look quite different depending on your location. The format of your ceremony, the fees involved, whether you need an appointment, and how many guests you can bring are all dictated by local rules. For example, New York City requires an appointment and does not permit walk-in ceremonies, while some other jurisdictions are more flexible. Costs typically range from $50 to $200 for the basics — covering the marriage license application and the ceremony itself — though extras like attire, photography, and a post-ceremony celebration will add to the total.
One exciting modern addition: many courthouses now offer or support livestreaming options, allowing loved ones who can’t be there in person to watch the ceremony in real time. Some counties even provide this service for free through platforms like Zoom.
Pro Tip: Always research your specific city or county’s requirements well before your planned date. Policies change, and the last thing you want is a surprise on your big day.
How to Plan a Courthouse Wedding in 10 Simple Steps
1. Choose a Location That Feels Right
Start by choosing a courthouse that holds meaning for you as a couple — whether it’s in the city where you met, where you currently live, or even a destination you’ve always dreamed of visiting. Don’t feel limited to your nearest government building. Some of the most stunning courthouse weddings happen at historic buildings with gorgeous architecture: think grand staircases, marble columns, or beautiful gardens. It’s worth visiting potential venues beforehand to scout out photo spots and get a feel for the space.
If you’re considering a destination courthouse wedding, keep in mind that you may need to obtain your marriage license before you travel, depending on local laws.
2. Research Your Local Marriage License Requirements
Not all courthouses operate the same way, so it’s essential to understand the rules in your area early on. Some key things to look into include waiting periods (some states require a waiting period between obtaining your license and holding the ceremony), license validity (licenses typically expire after 60 to 90 days, so don’t get yours too far in advance), and whether appointments are required for the license application, the ceremony, or both.
Even if walk-ins are technically allowed at your courthouse, experts recommend making an appointment anyway to secure your spot — especially if you have a specific date in mind.
3. Apply for Your Marriage License
Once you know what’s required, gather your documents and apply. You’ll typically need government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) for both partners, certified copies of both birth certificates, social security numbers, and divorce decrees if either partner has been previously married.
Some locations now allow you to start or complete the application online, which can save a trip. Be sure to check your courthouse’s accepted payment methods ahead of time — some only take credit cards or money orders, while others prefer cash or check.
4. Book Your Ceremony Date
Popular dates and times can fill up quickly, so try to secure your appointment as early as possible. Most courthouses operate Monday through Friday during business hours, with limited or no weekend availability. If a weekend ceremony is important to you, check with your local courthouse well in advance, as some do offer limited Saturday options.
One insider tip: courthouses can have certain times of day when the light inside is particularly beautiful, usually between mid-morning and mid-afternoon depending on the building’s architecture. If photography matters to you, this is worth considering when choosing your time slot.
Pro Tip: Work backward from your ceremony date to make sure your marriage license will still be valid on the day.
5. Put Together Your Wedding Day Checklist
A little preparation goes a long way. Before your ceremony, make sure you have the following sorted out:
- Your valid marriage license and any associated paperwork.
- Government-issued photo ID for both partners.
- Your witnesses — most states require one or two, and they must be adults.
- Confirmation of any special elements you’d like to include, such as personal vows, flowers, or photography (some courthouses have rules about what’s allowed inside).
It’s also a good idea to arrive early on the day. Give yourself extra time to park, go through security, and locate the correct office or courtroom.
6. Think About Your Guest List — Including Virtual Guests
Courthouse weddings are naturally intimate, and most locations cap in-person attendance at around 10 to 15 people. Before inviting anyone, confirm your courthouse’s guest limit so there are no awkward surprises.
But here’s the exciting part: if space is limited, you don’t have to leave loved ones out entirely. If space is limited or you’re keeping things private, consider livestreaming or video calling loved ones. Dedicated wedding livestream apps and platforms have become increasingly sophisticated, and virtual attendance now feels surprisingly immersive, with some services offering features like virtual guest books, chat functions, and automatic recordings that guests can rewatch later. Some courthouses even offer livestreaming through Zoom at no extra cost to the couple.
Pro Tip: Consider having your maid of honor or best man serve as one of your witnesses. If it’s just the two of you, your photographer can often fill this role as well.
7. Hire a Photographer You Love
If there’s one place worth investing your budget, it’s photography. A talented photographer will capture the emotion and beauty of your day in a way that you’ll treasure for decades. Ideally, look for someone who has experience shooting at courthouses or civic buildings — they’ll know the best angles, lighting, and nearby spots for stunning portraits.
When planning your photo timeline, keep in mind that a Dallas-based photographer recommends budgeting around 45 to 60 minutes for courthouse portraits. And don’t limit yourself to the building itself — extending the magic by exploring photogenic locations around the courthouse can turn your wedding into a mini-adventure, with portraits at murals, gardens, or rooftop bars.
8. Choose an Outfit That Makes You Feel Amazing
Just because your wedding is happening at a courthouse doesn’t mean you can’t feel like a million bucks. Wear whatever makes you feel confident and joyful — whether that’s a classic white dress, a chic pantsuit, a tailored tuxedo, or something entirely unexpected. Many designers now offer collections specifically designed for civil ceremonies, so finding something beautiful and affordable has never been easier.
You might also consider shopping for a short cocktail dress or a bridesmaid-style dress, which can offer a stunning look at a fraction of the price of a traditional wedding gown. The most important thing? That you and your partner feel great.
9. Add Personal Touches That Make It Yours
Even within the structure of a civil ceremony, there are plenty of ways to make the day feel special and personal. Carry a meaningful bouquet — choose blooms that tell a story, like your birth flower or a variety from a place that’s important to your relationship. Exchange rings that carry sentimental value, whether brand new or passed down through your family. If your courthouse allows personal vows, take the time to write something from the heart.
You can also bring along small, meaningful keepsakes like a guest book, framed photos of your journey as a couple, or even a small plant to celebrate new beginnings. Pieces that are personal and easy to carry tend to work best in a courthouse setting.
10. Celebrate in a Way That Feels Right for You
The ceremony might be short, but the celebration doesn’t have to end there. After you say “I do,” the rest of the day is yours to enjoy however you like. Plan something spontaneous after the ceremony — grab coffee, visit a museum, or go for a scenic walk. Or, if you’d like something bigger, host a reception later that evening or even at a later date with a broader guest list.
Your celebration could be anything from an elegant dinner for two to a casual pizza and champagne party with friends, a dessert-and-cocktails gathering, or a full-blown reception. There’s no rulebook here — just do what feels authentic to you as a couple. And if you’d rather keep things quiet and intimate with no party at all? That’s perfectly beautiful too.
Frequently Asked Questions About Courthouse Wedding
How long does a courthouse wedding ceremony take? The ceremony itself is usually quite short, typically lasting between 10 and 30 minutes. The entire process — from arriving at the courthouse to leaving — may take a bit longer depending on check-in and any paperwork involved.
Can you write your own vows for a courthouse wedding? Many courthouses do allow couples to exchange personalized vows, but this isn’t universal. Check with your chosen location ahead of time, as there may be limits on length or format. If personal vows aren’t permitted, you can still make the moment meaningful through other personal touches.
How many people can attend a courthouse wedding? Most courthouses allow somewhere between 10 and 15 guests, including witnesses, family, friends, and your photographer. Always confirm the exact limit with your courthouse before sending out invitations.
How much does a courthouse wedding cost? The bare bones of a courthouse wedding — the marriage license and ceremony fee — typically runs between $50 and $200, though this varies by location. Once you factor in attire, photography, flowers, and any post-ceremony celebration, costs will increase, but you’ll still likely spend a fraction of what a traditional wedding costs.
Can I livestream my courthouse wedding? Absolutely. Livestreaming has become a popular and accessible option for courthouse weddings, especially for couples with loved ones who can’t attend in person. Several dedicated apps and platforms make it easy to broadcast your ceremony in high definition, and some courthouses even offer this as a complimentary service.
Is a courthouse wedding the same as an elopement? They’re similar in spirit but not quite the same. Courthouse weddings are planned civil ceremonies that often include a small group of guests, while elopements tend to be more spontaneous and private — sometimes with no guests at all. Both are wonderful ways to celebrate your love.
What documents do I need? You’ll typically need valid photo ID, certified birth certificates, and social security information for both partners. If either partner has been previously married, divorce documentation will also be required. Some locations allow online applications, so check your courthouse’s website for the most up-to-date guidance.
Requirements and policies vary by location and can change at any time. Always verify the most current information directly with your chosen courthouse before making plans. And remember — no matter how you choose to celebrate, the most important thing is the love you’re honoring together.
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