Lyla Dejesus
A civil wedding in a city hall is an excellent option for couples who want a small, intimate, and fuss-free ceremony. City hall weddings are usually held in the city clerk's office and are often chosen for their convenience and lower cost compared to traditional weddings. The couple must bring valid identification and a marriage license to the ceremony, and some locations may require a witness. While there are limits to the number of guests and decorations, city hall weddings offer flexibility in attire, with most guests opting for dressy yet comfortable clothing. Professional photographers can enhance the experience, but friends and family can also capture special moments. City hall weddings are a popular choice for couples seeking a unique blend of simplicity and style on their special day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | City Hall or courthouse |
| Ceremony Room | Private ceremony room or rotunda at City Hall |
| Number of Guests | Up to 6 guests including photographers, videographers, children, and witnesses |
| Timing | Every half hour between 9 am and 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday |
| Cost | $20-$50 for the ceremony, $40-$100 for the marriage license |
| Attire | Dressy, but not ultra-formal |
| Photography | Professional photographers start at a few thousand dollars |
| Marriage License | To be obtained before the ceremony |
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What You'll Learn
Required documents: ID, social security number, and marriage license
To get married at City Hall, you will need to bring a number of documents to prove your identity and eligibility to marry. The specific requirements may vary depending on your location, but here are the general documents you will need:
Identification (ID)
You will need to provide valid, government-issued photo identification. This can include a driver's license, state-issued photo ID, international driver's license, passport (US or international), military ID, or a city-specific ID (e.g., PHL City ID or NY State ID). Both parties must be physically present and provide their IDs. If you do not have a Social Security number or Tax ID (ITIN), you must provide a second form of ID, such as a birth certificate or another acceptable form of photo ID.
Social Security Number or Tax ID (ITIN)
You will need to provide proof of your Social Security number or Tax ID (ITIN) as part of the identification process. This can be in the form of a Social Security card, Social Security printout, or ITIN document from the IRS. If you do not have a Social Security number, that's okay—simply inform the clerk, and they will skip this step.
Marriage License
To obtain a marriage license, both applicants must appear in person at the designated office (often called the Marriage License Department or the County Clerk's office) and fill out an application. In some locations, you may be able to complete the application online or virtually, but an in-person appointment is usually required to finalize the process. You will need to bring your IDs and any necessary supporting documents, such as proof of age, divorce decrees, or name change decrees. There is typically a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license, and you may need to allow time for processing, so be sure to plan ahead.
Remember, the specific requirements may vary depending on your location, so be sure to check with your local City Hall or the relevant government website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Location within city hall: private ceremony room or the rotunda
When it comes to civil wedding ceremonies in a city hall, there are generally two options for locations: the private ceremony room and the rotunda.
The private ceremony room offers an intimate setting for the wedding ceremony. It is a designated space specifically for weddings and provides a sense of privacy for the couple and their guests. This room is typically located within the city hall and is separate from the other public areas.
On the other hand, the rotunda is a grand and open space within the city hall. It often features a large, circular area with a high ceiling and beautiful architectural details. The rotunda can create a more majestic and formal atmosphere for the wedding. It is usually located in the centre of the building, serving as a prominent focal point.
The private ceremony room is ideal for couples who prefer a more intimate and secluded setting. This room can accommodate a smaller number of guests, making the event feel more personal and exclusive. The room is often simply decorated, with the focus being on the couple and their vows.
In contrast, the rotunda can accommodate a larger number of guests and is perfect for couples who want a grand and memorable setting for their wedding. The circular shape of the rotunda allows for a natural flow of movement during the ceremony, with guests surrounding the couple or arranged in a semi-circle.
The lighting in both locations can vary. The private ceremony room may have more controlled lighting, while the rotunda benefits from natural light during the day, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
It is important to note that the availability of these locations may depend on the specific city hall and their booking system. Some city halls may offer a choice of rooms, while others may assign a space based on availability. It is always advisable to inquire about the options and plan accordingly.
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Guest limit: up to 6 guests, including photographers and witnesses
If you're looking for an intimate, special, and fuss-free civil wedding ceremony, then a city hall wedding could be perfect for you.
City hall weddings are a great option for couples who want to elope or host a micro wedding, with a guest limit of up to 6 guests, including photographers and witnesses. This means that, aside from your partner, you can invite 4 other guests to join you on your special day. This guest limit is standard for city hall weddings, and while it may seem small, it allows for an exclusive and meaningful celebration.
When planning your city hall wedding, it's important to note that you won't be able to choose the location of your ceremony. The city hall will assign you a room based on availability, which could be their private ceremony room or even the rotunda.
To make the most of your guest limit, consider hiring a professional photographer who can capture the special moments of your day. Professional city hall wedding photographers bring specialized knowledge of the venue, lighting, posing, and editing. They can also help you coordinate timing and locations within the building. However, if you prefer a more casual approach, you can ask a friend to take photos or even use your phone.
Remember, each guest, including the photographer, will need valid, government-issued photo identification to enter the city hall and be a part of your special day.
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Cost: $20-$50 for the ceremony, $40-$100 for the marriage license
A city hall wedding is a great option for couples looking for an intimate, special, and fuss-free civil ceremony. The standard cost of a courthouse or city hall wedding ceremony typically ranges from $20 to $50. This is just the fee for the ceremony and usually does not include the cost of the marriage license, which is typically between $40 and $100.
The marriage license fee can vary depending on the location and whether there is a need to waive the mandatory waiting period. For example, in Boston, the license fee is $50, but there is an additional $195 fee if you want to waive the three-day waiting period mandated by state law.
It is important to note that the cost of the ceremony may also depend on the day and time of your wedding. For instance, San Francisco City Hall offers ceremony appointments every half hour between 9 am and 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday, and the first or last slot of the day is a great way to avoid excessive crowds.
Additionally, there may be other costs to consider, such as the cost of a wedding dress or suit, flowers, and reception expenses if you plan to have a small celebration after the ceremony. Some couples also choose to hire a professional photographer, which can start at a few thousand dollars, while others opt for a simpler approach with a friend taking photos or using phone pictures.
To obtain a marriage license, you will typically need to apply for it with your county before scheduling your ceremony. However, some jurisdictions allow you to schedule your ceremony simultaneously as your license appointment. Remember to bring your valid government-issued photo identification and your marriage license to your ceremony.
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Attire: dressy, but not ultra-formal
When it comes to civil weddings in a city hall, the dress code is typically business casual to semi-formal. The key is to find an outfit that strikes a balance between celebratory and appropriate for the setting.
For brides, a little white dress (LWD) is a popular choice. This could be a chic wrap dress, a tailored sheath, or an A-line dress that hits at or below the knee. You can add some sparkle with subtle lace overlays, architectural ruffles, or modern clean lines. If you want to forgo a dress altogether, jumpsuits are a perfect balance between formal and casual. You could also wear a pair of dress pants with a crisp shirt and a smart blazer. If you want to wear a dress but with a twist, a shirt dress can be a great option. For a modern twist, consider a well-fitted jumpsuit in a luxe fabric.
For guests, the aim is to look stylish and appropriate without overshadowing the couple. Female guests should avoid anything too provocative or full skirts, and instead opt for business casual, semi-formal, or upscale casual attire. Male guests should wear, at a minimum, slacks or khakis and a button-down shirt. Suits, blazers, or sports coats are also appropriate.
It's important to remember that city halls are often grand, formal buildings with stunning architecture, marble floors, and elegant staircases. Therefore, your outfit should be polished and refined, and footwear should be comfortable and stable to walk on slippery marble floors.
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Frequently asked questions
The number of guests allowed at a civil wedding at City Hall varies depending on the location. In San Francisco, there is a limit of 6 guests in total, whereas in Manhattan, the limit is 2 witnesses.
You will need to bring valid, authentic, legal government-issued photo identification, a valid unexpired marriage license, and a witness.
The standard cost of a city hall wedding is between $20 and $50. This does not include the cost of the marriage license, which is typically between $40 and $100.
There is no dress code for civil weddings at City Hall, but most people opt for slightly dressy attire. Women often wear a "little white dress" or a white jumpsuit or pantsuit, while men usually wear a jacket and slacks.
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