A Courthouse Wedding: Can Parents Attend?

Courthouse weddings are a great option for couples who want to avoid the cost and hassle of a traditional wedding. They are also a good choice for those who want to get married quickly, as they can often be planned in just a few weeks or months. The guest list for a courthouse wedding is typically smaller than average, making it a budget-friendly option. While the specifics of courthouse weddings may vary depending on location, they generally involve a civil officiant, such as a judge, justice of the peace, notary, or city clerk, and are usually only 10 to 15 minutes long. So, can you bring your parents to a courthouse wedding? The answer is yes! In fact, starting your guest list with your VIPs, such as parents, siblings, and best friends, is recommended. However, it's important to check the guidelines of your specific courthouse, as the number of guests allowed may vary. Some courthouses may only allow a handful of guests, while others may accommodate a few dozen. Therefore, it's best to confirm the guest capacity before sending out any invitations.

Guest numbers: Courthouse weddings are intimate, with a small guest list

A courthouse wedding is a wonderful way to celebrate your love in a simple, intimate setting. When it comes to guest numbers, courthouse weddings are typically small and cosy affairs, allowing you to share your special day with your nearest and dearest. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your guest list:

Know the Guidelines

Each courthouse will have its own rules regarding guest numbers, so it's essential to do your research. The number of guests you can invite will depend on the size and availability of the courthouse. Some larger courthouses may allow a few dozen guests if you reserve the space in advance, while smaller clerk's offices and district courts may only permit one or two guests due to limited space. Check the guidelines carefully and plan accordingly.

Start with VIPs

When creating your guest list, begin with your VIPs—your parents, siblings, and best friends. Depending on the guest limit, you may need to prioritise these closest relations and friends over extended family and plus-ones. Remember, you can always hold a larger reception after the ceremony to celebrate with a broader group of loved ones.

Consider Witnesses

Don't forget to include witnesses in your guest count. Some courthouses may require a certain number of witnesses, so be sure to check the local requirements. You can ask your maid of honour, best man, or even your photographer to fulfil this role.

Keep it Intimate

Courthouse weddings are inherently intimate, and the small guest list adds to the charm. This setting allows you to focus on your special bond with your partner and share the moment with those closest to you. If you prefer, you can even opt for a private ceremony with just the two of you, exchanging vows in a quiet, meaningful atmosphere.

Plan a Post-Ceremony Celebration

While your courthouse ceremony may be small, you can always plan a larger celebration afterwards. Whether it's an informal gathering in a friend's backyard, a catered party at your favourite restaurant, or a sunset cruise, there are plenty of ways to include a broader guest list in the festivities.

Remember, the most important aspect of your courthouse wedding is that it reflects your wishes as a couple. Whether you choose to invite a few loved ones or decide on a private ceremony, your wedding day will be a memorable and romantic occasion.

Location: You can get married at a courthouse or a municipal building

A courthouse wedding is a wedding ceremony that takes place at a county or state courthouse, city hall, or other municipal buildings. The civil ceremony is performed by a government official, such as a judge, district clerk, public notary, or justice of the peace.

Courthouse weddings tend to be more impromptu and simplistic compared to other weddings. They are also popular options for couples on a budget, as they are usually smaller and more intimate. The guest list is usually smaller than average, and you can always host a reception after the ceremony or later down the line.

When choosing a location for your courthouse wedding, you can opt for your local district courthouse, state courthouse, or city hall. Some famous courthouse wedding venues include New York City Hall, the iconic San Francisco City Hall, or the Santa Barbara Courthouse, known for its clock tower and beautiful gardens. However, before deciding on a destination courthouse wedding, be sure to look into the specific residential requirements, and don't forget that you'll need to file a marriage certificate with your local bureau once you're married.

It's important to note that not all courthouses have judges or officials who can perform legal marriage ceremonies, so you may need to travel to another city or county to have your wedding officiated. Additionally, many courthouses are only available for wedding ceremonies during the work week and may only perform weddings at specific times of the day, depending on the availability of the clerk or judge. Therefore, it's crucial to pay close attention to the courthouse's hours and availability before finalizing your plans.

By choosing a courthouse or municipal building as your wedding venue, you can have a unique, intimate, and budget-friendly celebration while still making your special day memorable and personalized.

Timing: Courthouse weddings are quick, lasting 5-20 minutes

The length of a courthouse wedding ceremony is an important consideration when planning your big day. These types of weddings are known for being quick, with the ceremony typically lasting just 5 to 20 minutes. This includes the completion of any necessary paperwork and the exchange of vows, which are usually brief and secular. In addition, there may be some waiting time before and after the ceremony, either in the same room as other couples or outside the room.

The short duration of a courthouse wedding is a significant advantage for couples who want a simple and straightforward ceremony. It also allows for flexibility in planning the rest of your day, whether you choose to jet off to your honeymoon immediately or enjoy a quiet reception with loved ones. Some couples even opt for a larger celebration at a later date, giving them more time to plan and invite a broader circle of family and friends.

When planning your courthouse wedding, it's essential to be mindful of the time constraints. Arrive at the courthouse with all the necessary paperwork, including your marriage license and forms of identification for both partners. If you plan to exchange rings, have them ready as well. It's also a good idea to confirm the availability of your witnesses ahead of time, as they play a crucial role in the ceremony.

Although the ceremony itself is swift, the lead-up to your courthouse wedding may involve some waiting. Many courthouses perform weddings only on weekdays during specific time slots, depending on the availability of the clerk or judge. Therefore, it's recommended to arrive early and be prepared to wait patiently for your turn.

In summary, courthouse weddings are an excellent option for couples seeking a quick and efficient way to tie the knot. With a duration of just 5 to 20 minutes, they offer a no-fuss alternative to traditional weddings while still retaining the romance and significance of the occasion. By planning ahead and being mindful of the time constraints, you can ensure that your special day runs smoothly and creates lasting memories.

Legality: A courthouse wedding is legally binding

A courthouse wedding is a legally binding option for couples who want to get married without the cost and hassle of a traditional wedding. It is a non-religious ceremony conducted by a legal official, such as a judge, district clerk, public notary, justice of the peace, or court clerk. This type of wedding is recognised as a valid marriage and can be used for marriage green card applications as it creates an official record of the marriage.

To have a courthouse wedding, couples must obtain a marriage license, which acts as an application to get married. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license may vary depending on the location, but typically, couples will need to provide a valid government-issued photo ID and any necessary divorce papers. There may also be a waiting period before the wedding can take place, and the license will have an expiration date.

On the wedding day, the couple will need to bring their marriage license, identification, and any other essential paperwork to the courthouse. They will also need at least one witness over the age of 18, but some courthouses may require two. The ceremony will be brief, lasting about 10 to 20 minutes, and will conclude with the couple signing the marriage certificate, which is the official record of their marriage.

While courthouse weddings are a simple and cost-effective option, they can still be personalised to some extent. Couples can choose their attire, hire a photographer, and invite a small number of guests, typically no more than 10 to 15 people, including the officiant and photographer.

Planning: Courthouse weddings are simpler to plan than traditional weddings

Planning a wedding can be a stressful and time-consuming process. A courthouse wedding is a great option for those who want to skip the lengthy planning process of a traditional wedding. Here are some reasons why a courthouse wedding is simpler to plan:

Less Time-Consuming

Courthouse weddings generally require less planning time. While it is still important to plan ahead, especially if you have a specific date in mind, you often don't need to plan too far in advance. In some cases, you can even get married on the same day that your marriage license is approved! This spontaneity is not usually possible with traditional weddings, which often require months or even years of planning.

Fewer Logistics

Courthouse weddings also have fewer logistics to manage. With a traditional wedding, you need to worry about booking a venue, hiring vendors, organizing decorations, and coordinating all the moving parts for your big day. With a courthouse wedding, many of these details are taken care of for you. The courthouse provides the venue, and an officiant is assigned to you, simplifying the planning process.

Smaller Guest List

Courthouse weddings typically have smaller guest lists, which means less time spent on sending out invitations, managing RSVPs, and coordinating guests' needs. While you may still choose to invite your closest family and friends, the smaller scale of a courthouse wedding makes guest list management much simpler.

Lower Cost

The simplicity of a courthouse wedding often translates to lower costs. By not having to pay for a venue, rentals, decorations, and a large number of vendors, you can save a significant amount of money. This can be especially beneficial for couples who are budgeting or prefer to allocate their funds elsewhere, such as towards a down payment on a house.

Customizable

While courthouse weddings are simpler to plan, they can still be personalized to reflect your style as a couple. You can choose a city hall that holds a special meaning for you, incorporate flowers and unique outfits, and even plan a post-ceremony celebration. By adding these special touches, your courthouse wedding can be just as memorable and meaningful as a traditional wedding, but with less planning involved.

Overall, courthouse weddings offer a stress-free and straightforward alternative to traditional weddings, allowing couples to focus on celebrating their love without getting bogged down by the complexities of planning a large-scale event.

Frequently asked questions