Bridesmaids: Courthouse Weddings, Yay Or Nay?

A courthouse wedding is a wedding ceremony that takes place at a county or state courthouse, city hall, or municipal building. It is a secular, legally recognized marriage performed by a government official. Courthouse weddings tend to be more intimate, with couples only inviting their closest family members and friends. While there are no strict rules for a courthouse wedding, the limited space might restrict certain outfit choices.

When it comes to having bridesmaids at a courthouse wedding, the decision is entirely up to the couple. Some people choose to include a bridal party, while others prefer to keep the ceremony more intimate. There are no standard guidelines for the number of guests or bridal party members at a courthouse wedding, but it's important to check with the specific courthouse to ensure they can accommodate your group. Ultimately, the choice of whether to include bridesmaids in a courthouse wedding is a personal one, and couples can choose to incorporate traditional wedding elements as they see fit.

What to wear to a courthouse wedding

When it comes to what to wear to a courthouse wedding, there are no strict rules, but there are some things to keep in mind. Courthouse weddings tend to be more intimate, with only close family members and friends in attendance. The venue may also be quite tight on space, so it's best to avoid large, voluminous dresses or long veils and trains.

For brides, a simple civil ceremony doesn't have to mean a simple outfit. You can have fun and break the bridal fashion rules. A little white ensemble, like a chic wrap dress, a tailored bridal pantsuit, or a sports coat in a more relaxed colour like blue, green, or grey, are all great options. If you want to go all out, a grand ball gown or a full-on tuxedo can also work. Don't feel limited to traditional white dresses or solid colour suiting if patterns, prints, or bold colours are more your style.

For grooms, a classic suit in grey or tan is always a good choice. These colours are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the formality of the event. If you're looking for something more unique, a white sport coat with shawl lapels can be a fun and formal option.

As a guest attending a courthouse wedding, it's a good idea to dress up a bit. While you probably don't need to wear black-tie attire (unless specifically requested by the couple), it's best to avoid jeans, t-shirts, and club attire. A business casual look is a safe bet. For men, a sports coat with slacks, and for women, a dressy sundress or a nice blouse with slacks or a skirt are all appropriate choices.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to wear something that makes you feel special and comfortable. It's your wedding day, so choose an outfit that reflects your personal style and the level of formality you want to convey.

How to plan a courthouse wedding

Planning a courthouse wedding can be a lot less stressful than a traditional wedding, but there are still some important steps to take to ensure your big day goes smoothly. Here is a guide on how to plan a courthouse wedding:

Choose the Right Location

Pick a city hall that has special significance to your relationship. Perhaps it's the city where you met or fell in love, or maybe it's your current home. If your local government building doesn't feel right, you can travel to another destination and make it part of your honeymoon or a fun-filled family vacation.

Research Marriage License Requirements

Even at a courthouse, you need a marriage license to tie the knot. The requirements vary from city to city and county to county, so it's crucial to do your research. Some states have a waiting period after obtaining your license, and there is usually an expiration date, so plan accordingly. If you're getting married abroad, you might be able to waive the waiting period and obtain the license once you arrive.

Apply for the Marriage License

Once you understand the requirements, it's time to apply. You'll typically need a state-issued ID or driver's license, certified copies of your birth certificates, social security numbers, and divorce papers if applicable. Make sure to check the accepted forms of payment, as some city halls only take credit cards or money orders.

Make an Appointment or Nominate a Day

Depending on the location, you may be able to make an advance appointment for your ceremony. If not, you'll need to nominate a day and wait for your turn. Weekend appointments can be challenging to secure, and you may face significant wait times. Remember that your license is only valid for a specific period, so ensure your civil ceremony falls within this timeframe.

Create a Checklist

Make a list of all the necessary items for your big day. This includes your marriage license, associated paperwork, ID documents, and witnesses. Check if you can include personal touches like reciting your own vows, having guests attend, and documenting the day with photos or video.

Capture the Event with Photography

Invest in a talented photographer to capture your wedding day. Ideally, hire someone who has previously shot at your chosen location and can guide you to the best photo backdrops.

Invite Your Closest Family and Friends

One benefit of a courthouse wedding is the freedom from typical guest list politics. However, each location has its own rules on guest numbers, so check the regulations before inviting anyone. You may want to have a maid of honour or best man serve as a witness, or opt to have just the two of you and the photographer present.

Pick an Outfit that Makes You Feel Good

Just because it's not a big wedding doesn't mean you can't have a fabulous outfit. Feel free to choose something formal or casual, traditional wedding attire, or a fun pantsuit or tuxedo. Designers have created collections devoted to civil ceremony attire, making it easy to find your dream ensemble.

Add Personal Touches

Even if you can't recite personal vows, there are other ways to make your day unique. Carry a bouquet, give a toast at any post-ceremony celebrations, book a nice hotel, or announce your nuptials in the local paper.

Throw a Fun-Filled After-Party

Plan some sort of post-ceremony celebration, even if it's just Champagne for two in a hotel lounge. You could also go all out with a reception, a restaurant meal, or a party at someone's home. If you'd rather just get away with your partner, that's fine too!

Last-Minute Details

On the day, there are just a few final touches to consider. Choose your outfits, add personal touches like flowers or vows, and, if you like, hire a professional photographer to capture the memories.

Courthouse wedding etiquette

Guest Lists

Courthouse weddings are typically small and intimate, with guest lists limited to close family and friends. The size of the courthouse will also determine how many guests you can invite, with smaller clerks' offices and district courts allowing only one or two guests. If you're inviting more than a handful of people, consider using a guest list manager to collect addresses, contact information, and RSVPs.

Invitations and Websites

If you're planning a courthouse wedding with just a few guests, spread the word with invitations. Include a link to your wedding website, where you can outline important details like parking instructions, the room where the ceremony will be held, and whether there will be a reception.

Attire

The rules around attire are much more relaxed for courthouse weddings. Branch out with non-traditional looks and fun accessories. While you don't need to go for black-tie attire, choose something a little fancier than your everyday wardrobe.

Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

You can include bridesmaids and groomsmen in your courthouse wedding. However, be mindful of the limited space in the courthouse, especially if you're planning to walk down an aisle or make a grand entrance with your bridal party.

Vows

You'll exchange brief vows as part of the ceremony. Unless you want to write your own, the judge or clerk will read a set of secular, non-religious vows for you to recite.

Timing

A courthouse wedding ceremony is generally no more than 10 to 15 minutes and can be as short as 5 minutes. Be prepared to spend some time waiting for your turn, either in the same room with other couples or just outside.

Witnesses

Depending on your location, you may need at least one or two witnesses for your courthouse wedding. Consult your local marriage bureau to find out the legal requirements. If you can't provide your own witnesses, the courthouse can usually provide them for a fee.

Can you get married at your local courthouse?

Yes, you can get married at your local courthouse, but it's important to confirm that the courthouse performs weddings at that location before making any arrangements. Not all courthouses have judges or officials who can perform legal marriage ceremonies, and in that case, you may need to travel to another city or county in order to have a courthouse wedding.

Courthouse weddings tend to be more impromptu and simplistic compared to other weddings. And because the guest list is usually smaller than average, courthouse weddings are a popular option for couples on a budget.

How to plan a courthouse wedding:

• Choose a wedding date and your courthouse venue.
• Double-check the necessary documents and other requirements.
• Hire a photographer (and other vendors as desired).
• Create your guest list.
• Build your wedding website and send invitations.
• Pick out your attire.
• Plan an optional post-ceremony celebration.

Courthouse wedding etiquette:

• Courthouse wedding costs vary by county and state, but in total, it shouldn't be more than a few hundred dollars.
• Depending on where you're getting married, you might need at least one or two witnesses for your courthouse wedding, but the legal requirements are different in every state.
• In some locations, you'll need a courthouse wedding appointment, but it's different for every court.
• The answer will depend on the size and availability of the courthouse. For example, a small district court that only accepts walk-ins may not permit more than one or two guests due to limited floor space and capacity.
• A courthouse wedding ceremony is generally no more than 10 or 15 minutes and can be as short as 5 minutes, depending on your preferences and the legal requirements.
• You'll exchange brief vows as part of your courthouse wedding ceremony. Unless you want to write your own vows, the judge or clerk will read a set of secular, non-religious vows.

How much does a courthouse wedding cost?

The cost of a courthouse wedding varies depending on location, with fees ranging from as little as $30 to as much as $1,000. Basic fees for a courthouse wedding typically don't exceed $120, but there are additional fees for things like securing certain spaces where guests are allowed or bringing in your own officiant.

In Miami-Dade County, Florida, for example, a deputy clerk can perform a ceremony for $30. Meanwhile, an indoor or outdoor ceremony at the courthouse in San Diego County, California, costs $88. In San Francisco, you can book a one-hour ceremony for $1,000, accommodating up to 100 guests on the Mayor's Balcony.

The Beverly Hills Courthouse in California charges a marriage license fee ranging from $91 to $100, a civil ceremony fee of $35, and an optional $20 fee for a provided witness. With the addition of photography, a bouquet, professional hair and makeup, and wedding outfits, the total cost for a Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding could reach $2,000 to $3,000.

It's important to note that fees for courthouse weddings may be waived for active-duty military personnel or first responders. To obtain accurate information about fees and scheduling, it's recommended to check the official government website for the municipality or contact the local clerk's office directly.

Frequently asked questions