Courthouse Wedding Ideas: Simple and Chic Celebrations for Your Big Day

ByOMG Hitched Team Reading Time: 9 minutes

Courthouse weddings have been gaining popularity in recent years, as more couples opt for a more intimate and budget-friendly celebration of their love. Planning a small wedding at a courthouse provides an opportunity to focus on what truly matters: the bond between you and your partner.

A couple exchanging vows in front of a judge at a simple courthouse wedding ceremony

When considering a courthouse wedding, there are a few key ideas to keep in mind to ensure your day is special and memorable. Incorporating personal touches such as a unique wedding dress or a thoughtful ceremony will make your intimate wedding truly unforgettable.

Lastly, remember that your courthouse wedding can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like, from a spontaneous event to a meticulously planned day. No matter the size or scale, a courthouse wedding is a testament to your love and commitment to one another.

Essentials of Courthouse Weddings

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A courthouse wedding can be a simple and intimate alternative to a traditional wedding. In this section, we’ll cover some essential aspects to help you plan your special day.


  1. Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step for your courthouse wedding. Research the requirements and waiting periods in your area, as they can vary by location. You can learn more about this in the The Knot article.



  2. Schedule an appointment for your wedding ceremony at the courthouse. Courthouse weddings typically take place in city halls, but you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Check the Zola’s guide for more information on selecting the perfect location.



  3. Witnesses are an essential requirement for your wedding. Depending on the location, you may need one or two witnesses to attend your ceremony and sign your marriage license. Consult the rules specific to your courthouse.



  4. Courthouse weddings are performed by an officiant, usually a judge or justice of the peace. This person will preside over your ceremony and sign your marriage license.



  5. To stay organized, create a courthouse wedding checklist that includes all the necessary paperwork and items you need to bring on your wedding day. For example, this Brides article suggests preparing your marriage license and other essential documents.



  6. Finally, remember that a wedding checklist can help you plan your courthouse wedding while allowing you to focus on the things that make your day special. You can find more courthouse wedding ideas and tips in this Parade article.


Planning Your Courthouse Wedding

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A courthouse wedding can be a beautiful and budget-friendly option for couples who want to keep their celebration intimate and special. In this section, you’ll find some tips to help you plan a courthouse wedding that’s tailored to your personal preferences.

First, think about personal touches that can make your courthouse wedding stand out. Adding elements like a special outfit or a unique bouquet will enhance your ceremony and make it feel more customized to your style.

Next, focus on the logistics of planning a courthouse wedding. You’ll need to make sure you have the necessary documents for your marriage license and any additional requirements, as stated by The Knot. It’s important to double-check this information well in advance, as every city and state may have different regulations.

When considering the courthouse wedding cost, prioritize aspects that matter most to you. Many couples find that sources of savings come from the guest list, the venue, and skipping expensive wedding extras. You can also consider planning a bigger party in the future, as suggested by Parade.

In terms of your guest list, remember that courthouse weddings often have limitations on the number of attendees. Make sure to invite only your closest family and friends to keep the ceremony intimate.

While a wedding planner may not be necessary for this type of wedding, it can be helpful to have someone coordinate the day for you. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member in this role instead of hiring a professional.

Lastly, you may want to create a registry for gifts. Just because you’re having a courthouse wedding doesn’t mean you can’t receive gifts from loved ones. Choose items that are meaningful to you and your partner, rather than focusing on traditional registry items that may not suit your needs.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to planning a delightful courthouse wedding that reflects your personal style and preferences.

Attire for Your Big Day

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What to Wear

When preparing for your courthouse wedding, it is essential to choose an outfit that suits the occasion and reflects your personal style. A courthouse wedding outfit may include a dress, jumpsuit, or even a blazer dress. Remember, your attire should be comfortable yet elegant, showcasing your personality while adhering to the more formal courthouse environment.

Outfit Ideas

  1. The Little White Dress: A timeless classic, a little white dress is always a great option for a civil or city hall wedding dress. This versatile style can be paired with accessories like a veil or statement jewelry.
  2. Jumpsuits: If you prefer a modern twist, a stylish white jumpsuit is an excellent choice, offering the perfect combination of sophistication and comfort.
  3. Blazer Dress: A blazer dress is a chic option for courthouse weddings, providing a formal yet contemporary look.
  4. Cowl Neckline: For a romantic and elegant touch, consider a wedding dress with a cowl neckline that gracefully drapes at the front of the dress.
  5. Side Slit: Add a hint of allure to your courthouse wedding attire with a dress featuring a side slit, a tasteful way to show a bit of leg while remaining modest.

Shopping Tips

  • Start your search early, allowing yourself plenty of time to explore courthouse wedding outfits and make a decision.
  • Don’t be afraid to try on various styles, as you might be surprised by which outfits complement your figure and personal taste.
  • Set a budget before you start shopping to ensure you stay within your means.
  • Consider renting your wedding attire from stores like Rent the Runway if you are looking to save money or wear a designer piece without the designer price tag.
  • Don’t forget to ask for alterations if needed, as a perfect fit can make all the difference in your overall appearance and confidence on your big day.

Ceremony Details

A simple courthouse ceremony: a small table with a bouquet, a marriage certificate, and two chairs facing a judge's bench

When planning a courthouse wedding, focus on the key aspects to create a memorable and intimate ceremony. While it may not be a traditional wedding, you can still incorporate meaningful elements to make it special.

Your vows are the heart of the ceremony. Take the time to personalize them to reflect your love story and commitment to each other. This will make the moment even more touching and intimate.

A photographer is essential for capturing the memories of your big day. They can take candid shots of your ceremony and formal portraits against the beautiful backdrop of the city hall or courthouse.

Regarding the wedding ceremony, try to visit the courthouse in advance to know the layout and see where you can hold it. This will allow you to visualize how you want things to unfold on the day of the event and avoid unpleasant surprises (Zola).

A first look is a pre-ceremony photoshoot where you and your partner see each other for the first time in your wedding attire. It’s a beautiful moment to share and can make for some stunning photographs.

In conclusion, while a city hall or courthouse wedding might differ from a traditional wedding, it can still be an unforgettable and intimate event. By focusing on these essential elements, you can create a beautiful and meaningful ceremony to cherish forever.

Post-Wedding Celebrations

Guests toast with champagne, confetti fills the air, and a small wedding cake sits on a table. Balloons and streamers decorate the room

Immediate Festivities

After your courthouse wedding, you can still have a memorable celebration with your close family and friends. Toast to your happily ever after with some non-alcoholic bubbly right outside the courthouse doors. Organize an intimate wedding reception at a nearby venue or your favorite restaurant, making sure to reserve a private space for the special occasion. Bring the party to a hotel, where you can continue celebrating with your loved ones, ensuring everyone has a comfortable space to relax and have fun.

Extended Celebrations

  1. Wedding party: For those who want a larger gathering, plan a wedding party for a later date, inviting a more extensive guest list and incorporating the traditional elements of a full-blown wedding.
  2. Honeymoon: As newlyweds, plan a romantic honeymoon to unwind and enjoy each other’s company after the wedding festivities. Book a remote destination or luxury accommodations to create unforgettable memories for you and your spouse.
  3. After-party: Host an after-party a few days or weeks after your courthouse wedding, allowing more time for planning and inviting additional friends and family members who couldn’t make it to the initial ceremony.

Personalizing Your Wedding

A couple exchanging vows in a quaint courthouse setting, surrounded by close family and friends. The room is adorned with simple, elegant decor, and the atmosphere is filled with love and joy

Adding flowers to your courthouse wedding can bring a touch of elegance and beauty to the ceremony. Consider bringing a small bouquet for the bride and a matching boutonniere for the groom. If possible, coordinate the colors with your outfits for a cohesive look 1.

Incorporate personal touches like custom vows to make the ceremony more meaningful and unique. You can also include a special reading or poem that holds a special place in you and your partner’s hearts 2.

Consider creating a wedding playlist to play throughout the ceremony or as you feel it adds to the ambiance 3. Select songs that reflect your relationship and memories, and even consider having a song play as you walk down the aisle.

Hiring a professional photographer to capture the important moments of your courthouse wedding will ensure that you have beautiful memories to look back on 4. Discuss your vision and the style you want for your wedding photos in advance.

Even though you’re opting for a courthouse wedding, you can still create a registry for your friends and family to contribute to 5. Consider adding a range of practical and sentimental items that are meaningful to you and your partner.

Overall, these courthouse wedding ideas can help you create an intimate and memorable experience for you and your loved ones without breaking the bank. Be sure to stay true to your style and preferences to make the day as unique as your love story.

Quote Lists

A table with a simple floral centerpiece, a sign with wedding quotes, and a guest book on a decorated stand

Quotes 1 – 25

  1. “Where there is love there is life.”
  2. “Love is a friendship set to music.”
  3. “You don’t marry the person you can live with; you marry the person you can’t live without.”
  4. “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.”
  5. “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”

[…]

Quotes 26 – 50

  1. “You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.”
  2. “To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides.”
  3. “The secret of a happy marriage is finding the right person. You know they’re right if you love to be with them all the time.”
  4. “The highest happiness on earth is the happiness of marriage.”
  5. “There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.”

[…]

Quotes 51 – 75

  1. “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”
  2. “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.”
  3. “A happy marriage is a long conversation which always seems too short.”
  4. “When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.”
  5. “Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.”

[…]

Quotes 76 – 100

  1. “Two souls with but a single thought; two hearts that beat as one.”
  2. “Grow old with me, the best is yet to be.”
  3. “Marriages are like fingerprints; each one is different and each one is beautiful.”
  4. “One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love.”
  5. “To find someone who will love you for no reason, and to shower that person with reasons, that is the ultimate happiness.”

[…]

Footnotes

  1. https://www.lovetoknow.com/celebrations/weddings/25-courthouse-wedding-ideas-make-it-uniquely-yours ↩

  2. https://thebridaltip.com/courthouse-wedding/ ↩

  3. https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/the-perfect-courthouse-wedding-in-15-steps ↩

  4. https://www.brides.com/how-to-plan-courthouse-wedding-5070853 ↩

  5. https://www.oliandalex.com/5-ways-to-make-your-courthouse-wedding-extra-special/ ↩

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