Bringing Family To A Courthouse Wedding: Is It Allowed?

Courthouse weddings are a great option for couples who want to avoid the cost and hassle of a traditional wedding. They are non-religious ceremonies that take place in a government building, like a courthouse or city hall, and are presided over by a legal official such as a judge or court clerk. While they are typically more impromptu and simplistic, with shorter durations and lower costs, they can still be personalised with unique touches. So, if you're considering a courthouse wedding, can you bring your family along?

The answer is yes! While courthouse weddings usually have smaller guest lists, you can absolutely invite your closest family members or friends to share in the special day. The number of guests allowed varies by location, so check the guidelines of your chosen courthouse. Some courthouses may only allow one or two guests, while others can accommodate a few dozen. It's important to communicate clearly with your guests and plan ahead, as courthouse weddings often take place during business hours on weekdays.

Guest list: Courthouse weddings are typically attended by a handful of close family members and friends

A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples who want to avoid the cost and hassle of a traditional wedding. It is a non-religious ceremony that allows couples to legally marry without the need for a religious ceremony. Courthouse weddings are typically brief, lasting around 10 to 20 minutes, and are presided over by a legal official such as a judge, court clerk, or justice of the peace.

When it comes to the guest list, courthouse weddings are usually intimate affairs with a small number of close family members and friends in attendance. The number of guests can vary depending on the courthouse, with some places allowing only a handful of guests and others permitting a slightly larger group. It's important to check the guidelines of your specific courthouse to ensure you don't exceed the maximum number of guests allowed.

When creating your guest list, start with your VIPs such as parents, siblings, and best friends. Depending on the size of your guest list and the courthouse guidelines, you may need to be selective about inviting extended family or allowing plus-ones. If you're unable to invite everyone to the courthouse, you can always hold a larger reception afterward to celebrate with a bigger group.

It's also important to communicate clearly with your chosen guests so they can plan their attendance accordingly. Treat your courthouse wedding guest list with the same level of organization as you would for a traditional wedding. This includes having a central point of contact, obtaining RSVPs, and coordinating with any wedding vendors you may have, such as a photographer.

In addition to your guests, don't forget that you will also need at least one witness for your courthouse wedding. Some locations may require two witnesses, so be sure to check the requirements beforehand. Your witness can also double as your photographer, capturing the special moments of your big day.

Venue: The ceremony is held in a government building, usually a courthouse or city hall

If you're opting for a courthouse wedding, the ceremony will usually take place in a government building such as a courthouse or city hall. This type of venue offers a unique charm and is perfect for couples who value intimacy and authenticity. While the setting may be simple and understated, it allows the focus to remain on the couple and their commitment to each other.

Location

You can get married almost anywhere, but the requirements will vary depending on your chosen location. Some states require you to apply for your marriage license in the same town where the ceremony will take place. It's important to research the local regulations of your desired location. While you'll typically apply for your marriage license at city hall or a similar government office, the ceremony itself can be held anywhere from a courthouse to a civil ceremony venue, depending on what the city offers and your personal preference.

Availability

Keep in mind that many courthouses are only available for wedding ceremonies during the week, from Monday to Friday, and may only perform weddings at specific times of the day, depending on the availability of the clerk or judge. If you have a particular date and location in mind, be sure to check the courthouse's hours and availability.

Procedures and Logistics

Government buildings like courthouses and city halls will have established procedures in place, meaning they will handle all the logistics for you. This can be a weight off your shoulders compared to planning a wedding at a traditional venue.

Architecture and Backdrop

Many city halls and courthouses boast stunning architecture, so you won't have to compromise on a beautiful backdrop for your special day.

Guest Capacity

Guest capacity will vary depending on the courthouse or government building. Some places may only allow a handful of guests, while others might accommodate a slightly larger group. It's important to check the guidelines and restrictions of your chosen venue.

Photography

Be sure to check with the courthouse or government building whether photography and videography are permitted during the ceremony.

Cost

The cost of a courthouse wedding will depend on the location, but it is generally more affordable than a traditional wedding. You can expect to pay a fee for the marriage license and possibly a separate ceremony fee.

Officiant

In most cases, a judge or court clerk will officiate the ceremony, but some venues may allow you to bring your own officiant if desired.

A courthouse or government building provides a practical and intimate setting for your wedding ceremony, allowing you to focus on your commitment to each other without the elaborate details of a traditional wedding.

Attire: Couples can opt for traditional wedding attire or more casual, non-traditional outfits

When it comes to choosing an outfit for a courthouse wedding, couples have a lot of flexibility. While some couples opt for traditional wedding attire, others may prefer to go for a more casual or non-traditional look. The great thing about a courthouse wedding is that you can let your personal style shine through.

For those who want to keep things simple and understated, a classic white dress or a chic pantsuit is always a good choice. You can also add a touch of fun with a colourful or patterned outfit. If you're feeling bold, you can even go for a grand ball gown or a full-on tuxedo. After all, it's your special day, and there are no rules when it comes to expressing your style.

When choosing your outfit, it's important to consider the space constraints of the courthouse. Large dresses with cathedral-length veils or voluminous skirts may not be the best choice for a confined space. You should also think about who will be helping you get dressed, as styles with complicated corsets or elaborate button-downs may be tricky if you're getting ready alone.

For grooms, a classic suit in grey or tan is always a stylish option. You can also add a pop of colour with a fun sports coat. And if you're looking for something more casual, a white linen shirt or a knit polo can be a great choice for a laid-back courthouse wedding.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and happy. Whether you go for a traditional or non-traditional look, your courthouse wedding will be a memorable and intimate celebration of your love.

Time and cost: Courthouse weddings are shorter and more cost-effective than traditional weddings

A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples who want to avoid the high cost and stress of planning a traditional wedding. Courthouse weddings are typically shorter and more cost-effective than traditional weddings, making them a popular choice for those seeking a simpler and more intimate celebration.

Time

Courthouse weddings are known for their brevity, usually lasting around 10 to 20 minutes. This includes the time for the couple, their witnesses, and a small number of guests to gather, exchange vows, and finalise the necessary legal paperwork. In contrast, traditional weddings can last for an hour or more, depending on the religious or cultural traditions being followed.

Cost

The cost of a courthouse wedding is significantly lower than that of a traditional wedding. The average cost of a traditional wedding in the United States is around $30,000 to $35,000, and this does not include the cost of the honeymoon. On the other hand, a courthouse wedding can cost anywhere from $50 to $2,000, depending on the location and additional services required. The biggest expense for a courthouse wedding is usually the marriage license, which can range from $18 to $115. Other potential costs include administrative fees, photography, catering, flowers, and wedding attire.

Planning

While a courthouse wedding is more straightforward to plan than a traditional wedding, there are still some important steps to follow. Firstly, the couple must choose a location and research the local requirements, as these can vary by state and county. They will need to obtain a marriage license, which may involve providing identification, birth certificates, social security numbers, and divorce papers if applicable. There may also be a waiting period of a few days before the wedding can take place. It is important to plan ahead, especially if the couple has a specific date in mind, as there may be limited availability for appointments.

Customisation

Couples can add personal touches to their courthouse wedding, such as writing their own vows, incorporating meaningful readings or music, and choosing their own attire. While the setting may be more minimalistic, it still offers a unique and intimate atmosphere, often in beautiful government buildings with stunning architecture.

In summary, courthouse weddings offer a cost-effective, time-efficient, and customisable alternative to traditional weddings, allowing couples to celebrate their love in a way that suits their preferences and budget.

Legal requirements: Understand the legal requirements of your jurisdiction, including any waiting periods or documentation needed

The legal requirements for a courthouse wedding vary depending on your jurisdiction. It is important to understand the specific requirements of the location in which you plan to marry, as there may be crucial differences in the necessary waiting periods and documentation.

In general, a courthouse wedding is a non-religious ceremony presided over by a legal official, such as a judge, justice of the peace, notary, or court clerk. This type of wedding grants you a marriage certificate that is recognised as valid by the government. To obtain this certificate, you will need to apply for a marriage license ahead of time. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license can vary by jurisdiction, but typically, you will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a passport, driver's license, or certificate of naturalisation), divorce papers (if applicable), and pay any associated fees. Some locations may also require additional documents, such as certified copies of birth certificates and social security numbers. It is important to note that marriage licenses often have expiration dates, and there may be a waiting period between receiving your license and when you can actually get married, so be sure to plan accordingly.

In addition to the marriage license, you will also need to bring forms of government-issued identification for both you and your partner, as well as at least one adult witness (some locations may require two). Your witness can be a close friend or family member, and they can also serve as your photographer if you choose.

It is always a good idea to research the specific requirements of your chosen location, as there may be unique procedures or restrictions in place. By understanding the legal requirements in advance, you can ensure that your courthouse wedding is legally binding and recognised as valid.

Frequently asked questions