A Courthouse Wedding: Does It Count?

A courthouse wedding is a non-religious ceremony that allows you to legally marry your partner. It is a quaint and practical option for couples seeking a simpler, more budget-friendly celebration. While some couples are hesitant to have a real wedding after a courthouse wedding, many people do it, and it is entirely possible. A courthouse wedding is a wedding, even if it's not the wedding of your dreams. You can still have a real wedding later on, but it would technically be a celebration of marriage or a vow renewal.

It's not weird to have a wedding after a courthouse marriage

It's important to remember that a courthouse wedding is a legitimate and legal way to get married. It is a nonreligious ceremony presided over by a legal official, such as a judge or court clerk. While it may be more low-key and intimate than a traditional wedding, it is still a meaningful and significant event.

If you're planning to have a wedding after your courthouse marriage, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be transparent with your guests about your plans. Let them know that you are already legally married and that the wedding is a way to celebrate your union with your loved ones. This can be done through your invitation wording or by spreading the information through word of mouth.

Secondly, consider how you want to structure the wedding. You can choose to include traditional wedding elements such as a walk down the aisle, exchanging vows, and even a first dance. However, some traditional elements, such as the garter toss, may not be appropriate if you've been married for a while. You can also add personal touches to make the day feel special, such as writing your own vows or incorporating meaningful traditions or rituals.

Lastly, don't worry too much about what others may think. As long as you and your partner are happy with your decision, that's all that matters. Many people will understand and support your choice, and those who matter most will be there to celebrate with you.

So, if you're considering having a wedding after a courthouse marriage, go for it! It's not weird or unusual, and it can be a wonderful way to celebrate your love and commitment with your family and friends.

You can still wear a wedding dress

So, you're planning to have a wedding ceremony after a courthouse marriage? That's totally fine! You can still wear a wedding dress and incorporate other traditional elements to make your celebration feel extra special. Here are some tips to help you plan your dream wedding after a courthouse marriage:

There's no need to feel restricted when it comes to choosing your wedding outfit, even if you're having a courthouse wedding followed by a larger celebration. You can absolutely wear a wedding dress and look like the bride you are! Whether you opt for a classic white dress, a fun pantsuit, or a chic bridal jumpsuit, the most important thing is to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and happy. It's your wedding, after all, so don't be afraid to embrace your personal style and love for tradition.

Inviting Your Closest Family and Friends

One of the benefits of a courthouse wedding is that you can keep the ceremony intimate and invite only your closest family members or friends. This can be especially meaningful if you have loved ones who are unable to travel or attend a larger celebration. By having a courthouse wedding first, you can ensure that those dearest to you are present for your vows, even if you plan a bigger party later.

Planning a Fun-Filled After-Party

While a courthouse wedding is a legally binding ceremony, it is usually quite short, lasting around 10 to 20 minutes. This means you'll want to plan some post-ceremony festivities to continue the celebration. Whether you opt for a small gathering with a few close friends or a larger reception with all the traditional elements, the key is to do what brings you and your partner joy. Some couples choose to have a quiet dinner with family, while others go all out with a reception, music, and dancing. It's your day, so feel free to incorporate any traditions or activities that hold a special meaning for you.

Capturing the Memories

Since your courthouse wedding ceremony will likely fly by, it's a great idea to invest in a talented photographer who can capture the special moments of your day. Look for a photographer who has experience shooting at your chosen location, as they'll know the best spots for photos and can help guide you to create lasting memories. These photos will be cherished mementos that you can look back on for years to come.

Adding Personal Touches

Even if you're having a simple courthouse wedding, there are plenty of ways to add personal touches to make the day feel extra special. Consider carrying a bouquet, giving a toast at the after-party, booking a nice hotel for a romantic night, or even planning an announcement in the local newspaper. These little details can make your courthouse wedding feel just as memorable and unique as any other wedding.

Remember, your wedding is about celebrating your love and commitment. Whether you choose to have a courthouse wedding, a traditional ceremony, or both, the most important thing is that you're marrying the person you love. So, go ahead and wear that wedding dress, say your vows, and create lasting memories that reflect your personality and style as a couple!

You can still have a typical ceremony

If you're planning a courthouse wedding, you might be wondering if you can still have a typical wedding ceremony. The answer is yes! A courthouse wedding, also known as a civil wedding, is a great option for couples who want to tie the knot without the hassle and cost of a traditional wedding. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the ceremony you've always dreamed of. Here are some tips to help you plan a meaningful and personalized celebration:

Involve your family and friends

Just because you're having a courthouse wedding doesn't mean you can't involve your loved ones. Consider inviting your closest family members or friends to be part of your special day. Depending on the courthouse's policies, you may be limited to a small number of guests, so be sure to check in advance. You can also ask a family member or friend to be your witness, adding a personal touch to your ceremony.

Choose a meaningful location

While you may choose to get married at your local courthouse, you're not limited to that option. You can select a city hall in a place that holds special significance for you and your partner. Perhaps it's the city where you met, fell in love, or currently reside. By choosing a meaningful location, you can add a personal touch to your ceremony.

Plan your attire

Just because it's a courthouse wedding doesn't mean you can't dress up! Feel free to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and happy, whether it's a traditional wedding dress or a fun pantsuit. It's your day, so wear whatever reflects your personal style.

Incorporate personal touches

Even if you're having a civil ceremony, there are ways to incorporate traditional wedding elements. For example, you can carry a bouquet, give a toast at the reception, or book a hotel and enjoy some spa services before or after your big day. These little touches can make your wedding feel more like the traditional celebration you've always wanted.

Plan a post-ceremony celebration

Don't forget to plan something special after your courthouse ceremony! Whether it's an intimate champagne toast or a larger reception with family and friends, it's essential to mark this momentous occasion. You can even have a "blessing of the union" ceremony, where a religious leader can bless your marriage if that aligns with your beliefs. It's your day, so celebrate in a way that feels true to you and your partner.

You can still invite guests

A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples who want to skip the stress and cost of a traditional wedding. It is a non-religious ceremony, presided over by a legal official, that allows you to legally marry your partner. While it might feel odd to wear a wedding dress and have a ceremony after you're already married, many couples choose to do this. You can still invite guests to your courthouse wedding, but be mindful that there might be restrictions on the number of guests allowed.

Every courthouse has different policies, but you can expect a maximum of 10 to 15 people, including the officiant, photographer, and immediate family members. Check with your local courthouse to confirm how many guests you can invite. You might also need to provide your own witnesses, so be sure to ask in advance if you can bring your own or if the courthouse will provide them.

When it comes to attire, you can be as formal or casual as you like. If you've always dreamed of wearing a wedding dress, go for it! It's your day, and you should feel free to choose whatever makes you and your partner happy. Some couples even opt for traditional wedding attire, while others go for a more casual look.

After the ceremony, you can plan a fun-filled after-party to celebrate with your guests. This can be as intimate or extravagant as you like—from champagne in a hotel lounge to a reception at a restaurant, the zoo, or even someone's home. Don't feel pressured to follow all the traditions of a typical wedding. Instead, keep the festivities true to your personal interests and personality as a couple.

If you're worried about what guests might think, remember that many people choose to have a courthouse wedding for practical or financial reasons. They may also choose to have a larger celebration later when they have the time and resources. Your guests will understand that this is your special day, and they will be happy to share it with you, regardless of the format.

So, go ahead and plan your courthouse wedding with confidence! Invite your closest family members or friends, choose a meaningful outfit, and celebrate your love in a way that feels right for you.

You can still have a reception

A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples who want to save money or want to get married quickly. However, if you want to celebrate with a larger group of friends and family later on, you can still have a reception or a "celebration of marriage".

The ceremony

If you want to have a ceremony with a larger group of friends and family, you can still do so after the courthouse wedding. You can treat this ceremony as a "vow renewal" or "blessing of the union" ceremony. You can still wear a wedding dress and do all the traditional things like walking down the aisle. You can even write and exchange your own personalized vows to make the ceremony unique and heartfelt.

The reception

You can host a small reception, such as an intimate lunch or dinner at a local restaurant, or go all out with a full-on wedding reception. You can also have a backyard BBQ or a simple engagement party. It's up to you and your partner to decide what sounds ideal.

The guest list

When it comes to the guest list, be sure to communicate clearly with your chosen guests so they can plan accordingly. It's a good idea to have a central point of contact where everyone can get important information and send their RSVPs.

The timing

If you want to have a larger celebration, consider hosting it a few months or even a year after the courthouse wedding. This will give you more time to save up and plan.

The location

If you want to keep the same location as your courthouse wedding, check with the courthouse to see if they allow decorations and outside vendors. If not, you can always plan a reception at a different venue and decorate to your heart's desire!

The invitations

If you're worried about how to word the invitations for a celebration after the courthouse wedding, don't stress! You can call it a "celebration of marriage" or a "vow renewal" and make it clear that you're already married.

Gifts

Some people may feel that it is not appropriate to bring a gift to a celebration of marriage or a vow renewal, especially if it is not for a milestone year. However, others may still want to bring a gift, so it's up to you and your partner to decide what you're comfortable with.

Bachelorette and bridal parties

You can still have a bachelorette party and a bridal party if you choose to. It's your day, so feel free to include these traditions if they are important to you.

The cost

Having a reception or celebration after the courthouse wedding will incur additional costs, such as venue rental, food, drinks, and decorations. However, it can still be more affordable than having a traditional wedding, especially if you choose a more casual or intimate setting.

The most important thing

Remember, the most important thing is that you and your partner are happy with your decision. Don't feel pressured to follow any particular tradition or custom. Do what feels right for you and your partner, and don't worry about what anyone else thinks!

Frequently asked questions