Flowers After Courthouse Weddings: Etiquette And Ideas

A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples seeking a simpler and more budget-friendly celebration. It is a unique and intimate way to exchange vows and create lasting memories. While some couples opt for a small civil ceremony with immediate family, others choose to have a larger celebration later, including a religious ceremony and a big reception with friends. In both cases, the question of whether to carry a bouquet of flowers often comes up. The answer is entirely up to the couple — some choose to carry a bouquet, while others prefer a simple bouquet of loosely tied flowers or no flowers at all. Ultimately, the decision to give flowers after a courthouse wedding is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer.

Is a bouquet appropriate for a courthouse wedding?

A bouquet is certainly appropriate for a courthouse wedding. While courthouse weddings are typically more low-key and intimate than traditional weddings, they are still a celebration of love and commitment. Carrying a bouquet can be a beautiful way for a bride to express her personal style and add a touch of elegance to the ceremony.

When choosing a bouquet for a courthouse wedding, it is essential to consider the unique setting and scale of the event. Unlike grand ballrooms or expansive outdoor venues, courthouses offer a minimalistic backdrop with their understated architecture and simple, practical spaces. Therefore, a smaller, more petite bouquet may be better suited to the setting than a large, cascading arrangement. A single flower, a handful of blooms, or a unique floral hoop can make a big impact while complementing the intimate and understated nature of the ceremony.

The flexibility of courthouse weddings also extends to attire, and this includes the bridal bouquet. While some couples opt for traditional wedding attire, others embrace a more casual or non-traditional approach. The bouquet can be tailored to match the bride's outfit, whether it's a classic wedding dress, a semi-formal ensemble, or something entirely unique. The beauty of a courthouse wedding is that there are no hard and fast rules, and the bouquet can be customised to reflect the bride's personal taste and style.

For those who want to incorporate traditional elements into their courthouse wedding, a bouquet is an excellent way to do so. Flowers have long been a symbol of love, romance, and new beginnings, making them a perfect accessory for the bride. The bouquet can also be used to tie in with the colour scheme or theme of the event, adding a touch of unity and cohesiveness to the overall aesthetic.

Ultimately, the decision to carry a bouquet in a courthouse wedding is a personal one. While some brides may feel that a bouquet adds a special touch to the ceremony, others may prefer to go without. There is no right or wrong answer, and the most important thing is that the couple feels comfortable and happy with their choice.

What are the legal requirements for a courthouse wedding?

A courthouse wedding, also known as a civil wedding or civil ceremony, is a non-religious ceremony that allows you to legally marry your partner. While the specifics may vary based on location, there are several key steps to planning a courthouse wedding. Here are the legal requirements you need to know:

Choose Your Location

You can get married almost anywhere, but the requirements will differ depending on the location. Some people choose to get married in the same town where they live to keep things simple, while others may opt for a location that holds special significance for the couple. If you plan to get married in another city, be sure to research the local regulations. You will usually apply for your marriage license at city hall or a similar government office, but the ceremony itself can be held anywhere from a courthouse to a civil ceremony venue.

Understand Marriage License Requirements

Before you can tie the knot, you must obtain a marriage license. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license can vary by state or county, so it's essential to research the specific rules for your chosen location. Some states have waiting periods, ranging from 24 hours to several days, between receiving your marriage license and the wedding ceremony. Additionally, marriage licenses typically have expiration dates, which you should consider when scheduling your wedding date.

Apply for the Marriage License

Once you understand the requirements, it's time to apply for the marriage license. In general, both parties will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, naturalization certificate, or passport. If either party has been divorced, a copy of the final dissolution (divorce papers) will also be needed. There may be a fee for obtaining the marriage license, which can vary by location.

Gather Essential Documents and Witnesses

Before your wedding date, gather all the necessary paperwork, including your marriage license, forms of identification for both parties, and payment for the marriage ceremony if it hasn't been made already. You will also need at least one witness over the age of 18, and some locations may require two witnesses.

Schedule Your Wedding Date

Some courthouses may allow walk-ins during business hours, while others will require you to schedule a date and time in advance. When choosing a date, consider any waiting periods and the expiration date of your marriage license. Courthouse wedding ceremonies are usually brief, often lasting less than 20 minutes.

Incorporate Personal Touches

Even with the legal requirements in mind, don't forget to make your ceremony special. You can incorporate personal touches such as customized vows, a special song, or meaningful readings. You may also bring flowers, a guest book, and framed photos to add a unique touch to your celebration.

What should I wear to a courthouse wedding?

There are no strict rules when it comes to a courthouse wedding dress code, but there are some small details to keep in mind. The space might be tight, so it's best to avoid large or complicated outfits. If you're getting ready alone, avoid styles with lots of complicated corsets or elaborate button-down backs.

For brides, you can't go wrong with a little white ensemble like a chic wrap dress, a tailored bridal pantsuit, or a sports coat in a laid-back colour. If you want to bring the drama, go for a grand ball gown or a full-on tuxedo. Boho, glam, modern, and vintage-inspired looks can all work for a courthouse wedding.

For guests, a courthouse wedding is a public official's office, so it's a good idea to err on the side of business casual. A sports coat and slacks, a dressier sundress, or a nice blouse with slacks or a skirt are all great options.

How long does a courthouse wedding ceremony take?

A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples seeking a simpler and more budget-friendly celebration. The length of a courthouse wedding ceremony can vary depending on the location and the couple's preferences, but they are generally shorter in duration compared to traditional weddings. Here is an overview of how long a courthouse wedding ceremony typically takes and some factors to consider:

Duration of a Courthouse Wedding Ceremony:

On average, a courthouse wedding ceremony can last around 15 to 60 minutes. Some courthouses offer ceremonies that are as short as 15 minutes, making them ideal for couples who prefer a brief and intimate exchange of vows. These shorter ceremonies usually involve just the couple, their witnesses, and perhaps a few close family members or friends.

Factors Affecting the Length:

• Location and Availability: The duration can depend on the specific courthouse location and their availability. Some courthouses may have time slots for ceremonies, such as 15-minute or 60-minute blocks. It's important to contact your local courthouse to inquire about their scheduling process and availability.
• Personalization: If you wish to incorporate personalized elements into your ceremony, such as custom vows, readings, or music, it may take a bit longer. These additions can make the ceremony more meaningful and unique, but they will also add to the overall duration.
• Guest List: The number of guests you invite can also impact the length of the ceremony. A larger guest list may require more time for seating, procession, and any additional activities you choose to include. Courthouse weddings typically have smaller guest lists compared to traditional weddings, but it's important to consider the time needed for guest-related logistics.
• Legal Requirements: There are legal requirements that need to be fulfilled during the ceremony, such as the signing of documents and the presence of witnesses. These requirements can vary by jurisdiction, so it's essential to understand the specific rules in your area.
• Photography and Decorations: If you plan to have photography during your ceremony or want to include minimal decorations, these elements can also influence the timing. Discussing these details with your courthouse and photographers in advance will help ensure a smooth and timely ceremony.

In summary, a courthouse wedding ceremony can range from a brief 15-minute exchange of vows to a longer celebration of up to an hour or more, depending on your preferences and the factors mentioned above. Courthouse weddings offer flexibility and a unique charm, allowing couples to focus on their commitment in an intimate setting. Remember to communicate clearly with your chosen guests, maintain organization, and incorporate any personal touches that are important to you.

How many people can attend a courthouse wedding?

The number of guests you can invite to your courthouse wedding will depend on the specific regulations of the courthouse where you plan to get married. It's important to research the rules and restrictions of your chosen location in advance, as they can vary significantly from one place to another.

That said, courthouse weddings are typically small, intimate affairs, with guest lists limited to a handful of close family members and friends. In general, you can expect no more than 10 to 15 people, including the officiant, photographer, and immediate family members. Some courthouses may have even stricter limits, such as only allowing one witness in addition to the couple due to COVID-19 restrictions.

To ensure that your desired guests can attend, it's a good idea to communicate with them in advance and be flexible, as courthouse weddings often require scheduling around their availability. You may also want to consider having a maid of honour or best man serve as a witness, or even the photographer, if you're hoping to include more guests.

While the guest list for the ceremony itself may be limited, you can always plan a larger celebration afterward, such as a small reception or a full-on wedding reception with extended family and friends. This way, you can include more people in the festivities and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Frequently asked questions