Courthouse weddings aren’t just for Vegas movies or spur-of-the-moment decisions anymore. They’re a legitimate, beautiful way to tie the knot without the stress, expense, or family drama that can come with traditional weddings.
Why Choose a Courthouse Wedding
Skip the Wedding Industrial Complex
The average wedding costs more than many people’s cars, and frankly, that’s ridiculous. Courthouse ceremonies typically run between $25-$100 for the license and ceremony combined, depending on your location.
You’re not being cheap—you’re being smart. That money you’re not spending on centerpieces and chicken-or-fish menus? It could go toward a house down payment, an epic honeymoon, or just staying in your savings account like a responsible adult.
Intimacy Over Instagram
There’s something deeply romantic about exchanging vows with just the two of you (plus required witnesses) in a quiet courthouse room. No distant relatives judging your flower choices or wondering if Uncle Bob will behave himself during the reception.
The focus stays exactly where it should be: on your commitment to each other. Plus, you won’t spend your wedding day managing other people’s emotions, dietary restrictions, or seating chart feuds.
Speed and Simplicity
Most courthouse weddings can be arranged within days or weeks, not months of planning. If you’re pregnant, military, or just ready to be married without the circus, this timeline feels like a breath of fresh air.
The paperwork is straightforward, the requirements are clear, and you won’t need a wedding planner to decode what needs to happen when.
Legal Requirements and Paperwork
Marriage License Basics
Every state requires a marriage license, but the specifics vary wildly. Some states have waiting periods between getting your license and using it, while others let you marry the same day.
Most licenses expire within 30-90 days, so don’t get yours too early. Research your specific county’s requirements online or call their clerk’s office directly—don’t rely on your friend’s experience from three states over.
Required Documentation
Bring government-issued photo ID for both of you. If either of you was previously married, you’ll need divorce decrees or death certificates to prove those marriages ended legally.
Some counties require birth certificates or Social Security cards, though this is becoming less common. Call ahead rather than showing up empty-handed and disappointed.
Waiting Periods and Residency Rules
Waiting periods range from zero to several days, depending on your state. A few states still require blood tests, though most have abandoned this antiquated requirement.
Residency requirements also vary—some states require at least one person to be a resident, while others welcome anyone with proper documentation. Nevada and Georgia are particularly welcoming to out-of-state couples.
The Courthouse Wedding Process
Making Your Appointment
Most courthouses require appointments for ceremonies, especially in busy urban areas. Don’t assume you can walk in on a Tuesday afternoon and get married immediately.
Popular dates like Valentine’s Day or 11/11 book up months in advance. If you want a specific date, call as early as possible to secure your spot.
What Happens During the Ceremony
Courthouse ceremonies are brief—typically 5-10 minutes. The officiant (usually a judge or court clerk) will ask if you take each other as spouses, you’ll exchange rings if you brought them, and they’ll pronounce you married.
Don’t expect elaborate vows or lengthy readings. Some courthouses allow you to write your own vows, but others stick to standard legal language. Ask when you make your appointment if you have specific requests.
Witness Requirements
Most states require one or two witnesses who are at least 18 years old. These can be friends, family members, or sometimes even courthouse employees if you’re flying solo.
Your witnesses need to sign your marriage certificate, so make sure they bring ID too. Some courthouses can provide witnesses for a small fee if you don’t have anyone available.
What to Wear and Bring
Dress Code Considerations
Courthouses are government buildings with dress codes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look fabulous. Business casual to formal attire works perfectly—think job interview or nice dinner out.
Avoid anything too revealing, flip-flops, or clothing with inappropriate messages. Some couples go full formal wear, while others choose nice street clothes. Both are perfectly acceptable.
Essential Items Checklist
| Must-Have Items | Optional but Nice |
|---|---|
| Government-issued ID (both partners) | Wedding rings |
| Marriage license payment (cash/card) | Small bouquet or boutonniere |
| Witness contact information | Camera or phone for photos |
| Divorce decrees (if applicable) | Celebratory champagne for after |
| Birth certificates (if required) | Special outfit or accessories |
Photography Considerations
Many courthouses allow photography, but some restrict it to certain areas or require permission. Ask about photo policies when you book your appointment.
Consider hiring a photographer for an hour to capture the ceremony and some portraits afterward. Even courthouse weddings deserve beautiful photos, and you’ll treasure them later.
Costs and Fees
License and Ceremony Fees
Marriage license fees typically range from $25-$100, depending on your location. The ceremony itself might be included or cost an additional $25-$75.
Some counties offer discounts for completing premarital counseling or education courses. It sounds cheesy, but these programs can actually be helpful, and saving money doesn’t hurt either.
Additional Expenses to Consider
| Expense Category | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Marriage license | $25-$100 |
| Ceremony fee | $0-$75 |
| Witness fees (if provided) | $10-$25 each |
| Certified copies of certificate | $5-$20 each |
| Parking | $5-$25 |
| Photography (optional) | $200-$800 |
Payment Methods
Most courthouses accept cash and credit cards, but some are cash-only operations. Call ahead to confirm payment methods and exact fees to avoid surprises.
Bring extra cash for parking, certified copies of your marriage certificate, and tips for courthouse staff if they go above and beyond.
Making It Special
Personal Touches Within Limits
Just because you’re in a government building doesn’t mean your wedding can’t feel personal. Bring meaningful rings, wear something that makes you feel beautiful, or carry a small bouquet.
Write your own vows if the courthouse allows it, or save them for a private moment immediately after the ceremony. Small gestures make big differences in how the day feels.
Celebration Ideas
Plan something special for after the ceremony. Book a nice dinner, organize a small gathering with close friends, or head straight to the airport for your honeymoon.
Some couples throw a casual party later, while others prefer to keep the celebration intimate. There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate—just do what feels authentic to you both.
Including Loved Ones
If you want family involved but not at the actual ceremony, consider live-streaming it or having someone FaceTime relatives who can’t attend. Technology makes it easy to include people without the complexity of a large wedding.
Alternatively, plan a casual reception or dinner party for the weekend after your courthouse ceremony. You get the best of both worlds: an intimate ceremony and time with loved ones.
Common Concerns and Misconceptions
“It’s Not a Real Wedding”
This myth needs to die. Your courthouse wedding is just as legally and emotionally valid as any wedding with 200 guests and a six-figure budget.
The commitment you’re making is identical regardless of venue. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you’re missing out or doing it “wrong”—you’re doing it your way.
Family Reactions
Some families struggle with courthouse weddings, feeling excluded or disappointed about missing traditional elements. Have honest conversations beforehand about your decision and reasoning.
Consider compromises like a small dinner afterward or a larger casual party later. But ultimately, this is your marriage, and you get to decide how to start it.
Missing Traditional Elements
You might feel a pang about missing the walk down the aisle or first dance. These feelings are normal and valid—acknowledge them without letting them derail your decision.
Create new traditions that fit your style. Maybe it’s a special breakfast before the ceremony or a meaningful gift exchange afterward. Your traditions can be whatever you want them to be.
After the Ceremony
Getting Your Marriage Certificate
You’ll receive a temporary certificate immediately after the ceremony, but the official one takes several days to weeks to arrive. Order multiple certified copies—you’ll need them for name changes, insurance, and other legal matters.
Keep these certificates in a safe place. Replacing them later is possible but annoying and expensive.
Name Change Process
If either of you plans to change names, start the process promptly. Begin with Social Security, then move to your driver’s license, passport, bank accounts, and employer records.
The process takes time and patience, so don’t expect everything to be updated immediately. Make a checklist and work through it systematically.
Your Perfect Day, Your Way
Courthouse weddings aren’t consolation prizes or second-best options—they’re deliberate choices made by couples who value substance over spectacle. Your marriage begins the moment you say “I do,” not when you throw the perfect party.
The beauty of a courthouse wedding lies in its simplicity and focus on what truly matters: your commitment to each other. Everything else is just decoration.