Planning a courthouse wedding in the United States can be an intimate, cost-effective, and stress-free alternative to a traditional wedding. Whether you want to save money, prefer a small ceremony, or require a quick and simple way to make it official, a courthouse wedding offers flexibility and convenience.
This guide will walk you through the steps you must take, from paperwork and legal requirements to tips on getting married in court and making your special day memorable.
What is a Courthouse Wedding?
A courthouse wedding, also known as a civil wedding or civil ceremony, is a non-religious legal marriage ceremony conducted by a government official or a judge. Unlike traditional weddings, which may involve elaborate ceremonies, receptions, and religious rites, courthouse weddings are typically straightforward and brief.
They focus primarily on the legal aspect of the marriage, ensuring that the state officially recognizes the union. Courthouse weddings can be as simple or personalized as the couple desires, often allowing for a few guests and simple yet meaningful vows. This type of ceremony is an excellent option for couples seeking a no-fuss, budget-friendly way to tie the knot.
Easy Steps: Getting Married at the Courthouse
Planning a courthouse wedding in the United States can be a simple, elegant, and cost-effective way to tie the knot. Whether you prefer an intimate ceremony or want to save on wedding expenses, a courthouse wedding offers a practical and stress-free alternative to traditional weddings.
How do you get married at the Courthouse? Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your courthouse wedding, ensuring your special day is memorable and legally binding.
Steps 1#: Research Local Courthouse Regulations
The first step in planning a courthouse wedding is to research the specific regulations and requirements of the Courthouse where you intend to get married. Every state, and sometimes even counties within states, has different rules regarding marriage licenses and courthouse ceremonies. Here are a few key points to investigate:
Marriage License Requirements: Check the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in your chosen location. This includes identification documents, residency requirements, and any necessary fees.
Waiting Period: Some states have a mandatory waiting period between applying for the license and the ceremony.
Appointment Scheduling: Many courthouses require you to schedule your wedding ceremony in advance. Find out the appointment process and how far in advance you need to book.
Witnesses: Determine if witnesses are required for your ceremony and if there are any restrictions on who can serve as a witness.
Officiants: Confirm who will officiate your wedding. Some courthouses provide a judge or clerk, while others may allow you to bring your officiant.
Steps 2#: Obtain Your Marriage License
Once you understand the local requirements, obtaining your marriage license is next. Here’s how to navigate this process:
Gather Required Documents: Typically, you’ll need government-issued photo IDs (such as a driver’s license or passport), proof of residency (if required), and, if applicable, proof of divorce or widowhood from previous marriages.
Visit the County Clerk’s Office: Apply for your marriage license at the county clerk’s office in the jurisdiction where you plan to marry. Some offices may allow you to start the application online but require you to complete it in person.
Pay the Fee: Be prepared to pay a fee for your marriage license. This varies by state and county but ranges from $30 to $100.
Observe the Waiting Period: Plan accordingly if your state has a waiting period. This period can range from a few hours to several days.
Steps 3#: Plan the Ceremony
Planning the ceremony itself involves a few important steps to ensure everything goes smoothly:
Schedule Your Ceremony: Schedule your courthouse ceremony once you have your marriage license. Confirm the date and time, and note any specific instructions provided by the Courthouse.
Choose Your Attire: While a courthouse wedding is typically more casual than a traditional wedding, you can still dress up as much as you’d like. Decide on your attire in advance, whether you prefer a simple dress and suit or something more elaborate.
Invite Guests: Courthouse weddings are often more intimate, but you can still invite close family and friends. Check with the Courthouse about any guest limits or restrictions due to space and security protocols.
Plan for Photography: Hire a professional photographer or ask a friend to take photos to capture the moments. Some courthouses have restrictions on photography, so verify the rules beforehand.
Steps 4#: Personalize Your Ceremony
Just because you’re having a courthouse wedding doesn’t mean you can’t personalize your ceremony. Consider these ideas to make your day unique:
Vows: Write your vows to add a personal touch. Check with the Courthouse to see if you can include personalized vows in the ceremony.
Rings: Plan a ring exchange as part of your ceremony. Decide whether you want to keep it simple or go for custom-designed rings.
Readings: Incorporate meaningful readings or quotes into your ceremony. Ask the officiant if you can include these elements.
Music: Bring a portable speaker to play a special song before or after the ceremony if allowed.
Steps 5#: Post-Ceremony Celebration
After the ceremony, celebrate your new marriage with a post-ceremony gathering. Here are some ideas:
Small Reception: Host a small reception at a local restaurant or your home. This can be a casual meal with close family and friends.
Party Later: Plan a larger celebration or party later to include more people and have a more traditional reception.
Mini Honeymoon: Consider a mini or weekend getaway to celebrate your new marriage. This doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a special time for the two of you to enjoy.
Steps 6#: Legal Matters
Once you’re married, there are a few legal matters to attend to:
Obtain Your Marriage Certificate: Ensure you receive a certified copy after the ceremony. You may need this for name changes and other legal matters.
Name Change: If either of you plans to change your last name, start the process as soon as possible. This typically involves updating your Social Security card, driver’s license, bank accounts, and other official documents.
Update Legal Documents: Update your will, insurance policies, and other important documents to reflect your new marital status.
Benefits of a Courthouse Wedding
Courthouse weddings offer several benefits:
Cost-Effective: They are generally much less expensive than traditional weddings, saving money on venues, catering, and other expenses.
Less Stress: With fewer details, a courthouse wedding can be less stressful to plan and execute.
Intimacy: The smaller, more intimate setting can make the ceremony more personal and meaningful.
Simplicity: Courthouse weddings are straightforward and typically require less time to plan.
How Much is it to Get Married at the Courthouse?
The fee of getting married at the Courthouse varies significantly based on location. Generally, two primary costs are to consider: the marriage license fee and the ceremony fee.
Marriage License Fee: The fee for getting a marriage license typically ranges from $30 to $100, depending on the state and county. Some locations may require additional documentation or fees, such as for certified license copies.
Ceremony Fee: If you choose to perform your wedding ceremony by a judge or court official, there is often an additional fee. This cost can vary widely, from as little as $20 to over $100. Some courthouses may offer lower rates for residents of their jurisdiction.
Other Costs: Be aware of potential additional costs, such as fees for scheduling appointments outside of regular hours, obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate, or hiring an officiant if the Courthouse does not provide one.
Conclusion
A courthouse wedding can be a beautiful and meaningful way to start your married life together. You can create a memorable and special day by understanding the requirements, planning the details, and adding personal touches.
Whether you’re looking for simplicity, intimacy, or cost savings, a courthouse wedding offers a practical and heartfelt alternative to a traditional wedding ceremony.