Courthouse Weddings: Can You Invite Guests?

Courthouse weddings are a popular option for couples who want to save money or avoid the hassle of planning a large-scale wedding. While they tend to be more impromptu and simplistic, one of the most important things to remember when organizing this type of ceremony is to plan ahead, especially if you have a particular date in mind.

Courthouse weddings typically involve a civil officiant, such as a judge, justice of the peace, notary, or city clerk, and take place inside a courthouse or civic building. The ceremonies are usually short, lasting only 10 to 15 minutes, and are often followed by photos with witnesses and guests to commemorate the occasion.

So, can you invite people to a courthouse wedding? The answer is yes! In fact, it is considered good etiquette to send out formal invitations to your guests. While courthouse weddings usually have a smaller guest list due to space constraints, it is important to check the specific rules and regulations of your chosen venue to determine how many people you can invite.

By sending out invitations, you can ensure that your guests have all the necessary details and make them feel special and included in your big day.

Guest numbers are limited to around 10-15 people

A courthouse wedding is a wonderful way to celebrate your love without the fuss of a large-scale wedding. It is a legitimate and meaningful way to declare your commitment to each other. If you're planning a courthouse wedding, here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to guest numbers:

Guest List Considerations:

Firstly, it's important to note that guest numbers for a courthouse wedding are typically limited to around 10-15 people, including the officiant, photographer, and immediate family members. This intimate setting is part of the charm of a courthouse wedding, allowing you to share your special moment with your closest loved ones.

Invitations:

While a courthouse wedding may be more impromptu and simplistic, it's still important to send out invitations to your guests. A simple online invitation or e-invite is perfectly acceptable and can be a great way to include a personal touch. Be sure to include all the necessary details, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony, as well as any instructions for parking or meeting points.

Witnesses:

In some locations, you may need at least one or two witnesses for your courthouse wedding. Check your local requirements, and if needed, ask your closest family members or friends to fulfil this role. It's a wonderful way to involve them in your special day.

Post-Ceremony Celebrations:

If you wish to include more people in the celebrations, consider hosting a post-ceremony gathering. This could be an intimate lunch or dinner in a private room at a restaurant, a casual get-together at someone's home, or even a fun celebration at a unique venue like a zoo or museum. This way, you can include extended family and friends who couldn't be part of the courthouse ceremony due to the limited guest numbers.

Venue Capacity:

When choosing your courthouse venue, remember to consider the size and capacity of the room. Smaller district courts may have limited floor space, so it's essential to enquire about their guest restrictions. Larger courthouses may be able to accommodate a few dozen guests if you reserve the space in advance and make the necessary arrangements.

You can send invitations, but e-vites are also acceptable

When it comes to a courthouse wedding, you might be tempted to skip sending out invitations, especially if you're only inviting a few guests. However, it is still important to properly invite your guests. While a phone call or a text message might seem like a convenient option, it's not considered proper etiquette for a wedding.

So, what are your options? Well, you can certainly send out formal, mailed invitations if you have the time. This is a traditional and classy way to let your guests know about your upcoming nuptials. Mailed invitations also add a personal touch and can be cherished by your guests as keepsakes.

However, if you're short on time or prefer a more modern approach, e-vites are definitely acceptable. Online invitations are a convenient and environmentally-friendly option. Just make sure to choose a design that suits a wedding and reflects your personalities. Avoid e-vites that look too casual or are meant for other types of events.

Keep in mind that courthouses usually have limited space, and only a small number of guests are typically allowed to attend. So, be sure to find out the guest limit at your chosen courthouse before sending out your invitations. You don't want to invite more people than the venue can accommodate.

Additionally, if you're planning a reception after the ceremony, whether it's a sit-down dinner, a casual gathering, or a private room at a restaurant, you can include the details on your e-vite or mailed invitation. This way, your guests will have all the information they need in one place.

You can have a reception after the ceremony

A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples who want to save money or avoid the stress of planning a large wedding. While a courthouse wedding is typically a simple affair, that doesn't mean you can't celebrate with a reception afterwards! Here are some ideas for how you can do this:

Rent a Local Community Centre

Community centres or dance halls are a great option for a post-courthouse wedding reception. They offer plenty of space for dancing, eating, and partying with your friends and family. They are also relatively inexpensive to rent, allowing you to put more money towards other aspects of your reception, such as catering or decorations. You could even set up a photo booth to capture memories with your loved ones.

Spend the Evening in Your Favourite Bar

If you're looking for a more casual atmosphere, why not rent out the back room of your favourite local bar? You could even see if the bar owner would be willing to close down the rest of the bar for a private party. Many bars also allow you to bring your own decorations and cake, so you can still have all the traditional wedding elements.

Reserve a Room at a Restaurant

A restaurant reception is a great way to combine your celebration and meal into one. You can choose a fancy restaurant or somewhere more low-key, depending on your style and budget. Be sure to schedule your reception in advance to ensure you have the space, and discuss all the details with the restaurant staff beforehand, including how you want to handle billing and gratuity.

Visit a Winery or Botanical Garden

Wineries and botanical gardens offer beautiful scenery for your reception and are often located in nature, providing a peaceful and unique setting for your celebration. You can usually choose the types of wine served and may even be able to have a tasting before the ceremony. Botanical gardens offer winding trails, fountains, and blooming flowers for a romantic and elegant atmosphere.

Have a Beach Party

If you're getting married in the summer or autumn, consider renting a beach house for your reception. You and your guests can enjoy the sun, sand, and waves, and you can set up fun activities like volleyball or swimming. It's a great option for a casual and fun-filled celebration.

No matter which option you choose, there are plenty of ways to make your courthouse wedding and reception special and memorable. Don't be afraid to get creative and plan a celebration that reflects your personality and style as a couple!

You can wear traditional wedding attire if you want

If you're opting for a courthouse wedding, you might be tempted to forgo the traditional wedding attire. But who says you can't wear a fabulous outfit just because you're not having a big celebration? If you want to wear a traditional wedding dress, suit, or tuxedo to your courthouse wedding, you absolutely can!

Courthouse weddings are usually more impromptu and simplistic, and there's often limited space, so it's a good idea to choose an outfit that's easy to move around in and won't take up too much room. If you're set on wearing a dress with a long train, consider bringing a photographer to capture some stunning photos outside the courthouse, on the steps, or in a nearby location. That way, you can still feel like a bride without worrying about manoeuvring your dress in a tight space.

When it comes to courthouse wedding attire, anything goes! You can opt for a classic white dress, a fun pantsuit or jumpsuit, or even a colourful ensemble if that's more your style. It's your special day, so wear whatever makes you feel good. Just remember to check the local rules of the courthouse to ensure your outfit complies with any dress codes or restrictions.

If you're the bride and you want to wear a traditional wedding dress, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the amount of fabric your dress has. Large amounts of fabric, such as a tulle ball gown skirt, may be difficult to manage in a small space. Additionally, if you're getting ready alone, avoid styles with intricate corsets or complex back closures that may be difficult to put on without assistance.

For grooms, a traditional suit or tuxedo is always a great choice. You can add a touch of personality with a fun pocket square or a colourful tie. Remember, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident on your big day, so choose an outfit that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to wear what makes you happy. Whether it's a traditional wedding dress, a sharp suit, or something completely different, choose an outfit that reflects your personal style and makes you feel amazing. After all, it's your wedding day, and you deserve to feel special!

You can add personal touches, like flowers and a photographer

A courthouse wedding is a great way to have a simple and budget-friendly celebration. While it may seem like a straightforward affair, there are many ways to add personal touches and make the day special.

One way to add a personal touch is to incorporate flowers. You can carry a bouquet as you walk down the aisle, and your partner can wear a boutonniere. You can even give corsages and boutonnieres to your guests, making them feel like part of your wedding party.

Another way to personalize your courthouse wedding is to hire a photographer. They can capture the story of the day, from getting ready to the ceremony and the stylish departure. You can also get great photos of you and your partner waiting in line or going through security. After the ceremony, head to a nearby scenic location for more photos. A professional photographer will ensure you have beautiful mementos to cherish for years to come.

You can also bring other decorations, like a guest book and framed photos, to add a personal touch to the ceremony. If your local courthouse doesn't allow many decorations, remember that you can always plan a reception later and decorate to your heart's content!

In addition to flowers and photography, there are other ways to make your courthouse wedding unique. You can write and exchange personalized vows, give a toast at a post-ceremony celebration, or book a nice hotel and splurge on spa services. You can also plan an announcement in the local paper to share your nuptials with the community. These special touches will reinforce the significance of your wedding day.

Frequently asked questions