Courthouse weddings are becoming increasingly popular for couples looking for an intimate, budget-friendly, and straightforward way to tie the knot. Whether you’re opting for a courthouse ceremony for simplicity, financial reasons, or personal preference, preparation is key to ensuring your big day goes smoothly. Here’s a comprehensive courthouse wedding checklist to guide you through planning your courthouse wedding.
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Courthouse weddings are gaining popularity and it’s no wonder! You can get married (basically for free) at a gorgeous location. Low stress, minimal planning, and a focus on saying “I do”. Plus, saving all that money on a venue opens up a ton of opportunities for your honeymoon or post ceremony celebration.
Do Your Research
Before diving into the details, take time to research your local courthouse. Procedures, fees, and requirements vary depending on the location. Start by answering the following:
Where can you get married? Not all courthouses perform wedding ceremonies. Pick your city and then start researching which ones will marry you.
Do you need an appointment? Some courthouses require appointments, while others allow walk-ins.
What is the cost? Fees for a marriage license and the ceremony itself can vary. Be prepared to budget for both.
Who can officiate your wedding? Confirm if a judge, justice of the peace, or court clerk will officiate your ceremony.
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The marriage license is a crucial document for your courthouse wedding. Here’s what you’ll need:
Application Requirements: Check your courthouse’s website for application details. Typically, both parties need to apply together in person.
Valid Identification: Bring a government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) for both parties.
Proof of Divorce (if applicable): If either of you has been previously married, you may need to provide a divorce decree.
Waiting Periods: Some states have a waiting period between obtaining the license and the ceremony, so plan accordingly.
License Fee: Bring cash or check, as some courthouses do not accept credit cards.
Choose Your Date and Time
The unique thing about choosing a wedding date (and time) for courthouse weddings is that they're only open during business hours. When scheduling your ceremony, consider the following:
Peak Hours: Courthouses can get busy, especially during lunch breaks and on Fridays. Choose a time that works best for you and avoids potential crowds.
Flexibility: If you’re opting for a walk-in ceremony, be prepared to wait. Bringing something to pass the time, like a book or playlist, can help.
Witnesses: Most courthouses require at least one witness for the ceremony. Check if your courthouse has specific requirements regarding witnesses, including age or ID requirements.
Plan Your Attire
One of the joys of a courthouse wedding is the freedom to choose your style. Whether you go casual, formal, or somewhere in between, make sure your attire fits the occasion:
Dress Code: Research if the courthouse has any guidelines or restrictions on attire.
Comfort: Remember, you’ll likely be walking through metal detectors and sitting in public waiting areas.
Personal Touch: Add a special accessory, like a veil, boutonnière, or statement jewelry, to make your outfit feel celebratory.
While courthouse weddings are simple, it’s important to be prepared:
Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time to park, go through security, and locate the correct office or courtroom.
Required Documents: Bring your marriage license, IDs, and any other required paperwork.
Rings: If you’re exchanging rings, make sure you have them ready.
Vows: Decide if you’ll recite traditional vows or exchange personal ones. Confirm if the officiant allows customized vows.
Capture the Moment
Even if you’re skipping a traditional wedding, I highly recommend hiring an experienced courthouse wedding photographer. Not only will they capture your ceremony but they can help you plan a fun photo session to follow.
Additional Tips for a Memorable Courthouse Wedding
Personalize the day: Even with a courthouse wedding, you can add meaningful touches, such as writing love letters to each other or exchanging small gifts.
Keep it simple: Focus on the reason you’re getting married rather than the details.
Stay flexible: Things might not go exactly as planned, but remember that the most important part is celebrating your love story!
A courthouse wedding is a beautiful and meaningful way to start your marriage. With the right preparation and a positive mindset, your special day can be as memorable and unique as any traditional ceremony. Use this checklist to guide your planning and enjoy every moment of this intimate celebration of love.
Author Bio
Jennie Swenson is a former micro wedding bride, and she now supports countless couples in planning their own intimate celebrations through her blog, featuring real micro wedding stories and a curated vendor directory. Her practical advice and firsthand experience make her a go-to resource for those seeking to create memorable and meaningful micro weddings.
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