City Hall Weddings: What To Expect

A city hall wedding is a great option for couples who want to tie the knot in a civil ceremony that's intimate, special, and fuss-free. It's also a good choice for those looking to elope or host a micro wedding. The process is relatively simple and can be completed in a few steps: obtain a marriage licence, schedule the wedding ceremony, determine who's invited, and show up on the big day. City hall weddings are generally smaller and less traditional, with limits on the number of guests and restrictions on decorations. The cost of the ceremony is typically between $20 and $50, not including the cost of the marriage licence. City hall weddings offer a unique and memorable way to celebrate your love without the hassle and expense of a large, traditional wedding.

The cost of a city hall wedding

It's important to note that these costs are just for the ceremony and license. Additional expenses such as attire, flowers, and reception costs will need to be factored in separately. For instance, renting out the Mayor's Balcony or 4th-Floor Gallery in San Francisco City Hall costs $1,000, and hosting a Saturday wedding with 200 guests costs $5,000.

Furthermore, security costs for evening weddings can range from $5,000 to $7,000, and there may be additional fees for processing, connectivity, guest counts over a certain number, and more.

When planning a city hall wedding, it's essential to research the specific location's website or contact the county marriage license bureau to understand the associated costs and requirements.

What to wear

While there are no strict rules for what to wear to a city hall wedding, it's your big day, so you should look and feel like the best version of yourself. There is a lot of flexibility when it comes to courthouse weddings, so you can be creative with your outfit choice. You can go for something vintage, new, above the knee, knee-length, or full-length. Pantsuits and jumpsuits are popular alternatives to dresses, and the separate pieces can be easily re-worn after your wedding day.

If you're the bride, you might want to opt for a little white dress or a white jumpsuit or pantsuit. You can also choose to wear a traditional wedding dress, but be mindful of the space limitations of the venue. Styles with large amounts of fabric, such as a tulle ball gown skirt, may not be as easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. If you're getting ready alone, it's best to avoid styles with intricate corsets or elaborate button-down backs. You can also add a veil if you want to, but shorter veils may be more practical in a city hall setting.

For guests, it's a good idea to dress to impress and look put together. Jeans, t-shirts, and club attire are probably best avoided. A business casual outfit is a safe bet for a courthouse wedding.

How to get a marriage licence

Getting a marriage licence can be a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some preparation. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a marriage licence:

• Find the appropriate office: Marriage licences are typically issued by a local government office, such as a county clerk's office or a marriage bureau. In some places, you can apply for a marriage licence online, while others may require an in-person application.
• Gather the required documents: You will need to provide proof of age and identity for both parties. Accepted forms of identification may include a valid driver's licence, a government-issued non-driver's ID, or a passport. Some locations may have additional requirements, so be sure to check with your local office.
• Complete the application: The marriage licence application will require basic information about both parties, such as full names, dates and places of birth, and Social Security numbers (in some locations). If either party has been previously married, you may also need to provide information about the divorce or death of the former spouse.
• Pay the fee: There is usually a fee associated with obtaining a marriage licence. The cost can vary depending on the location, ranging from $35 to $50 or more. Some offices may offer a reduced fee if you present a domestic partnership certificate at the time of application. Accepted forms of payment may include cash, credit card, cheque, or money order.
• Wait for the processing period: After submitting your application, there may be a waiting period before you can receive your marriage licence. This processing time can vary, but it is typically a few days to a few weeks. In some jurisdictions, there may be a specific waiting period, such as 48 hours, after which your licence will be effective.
• Pick up the licence: Once your application has been processed and approved, you can collect your marriage licence from the issuing office. In some cases, you may be able to designate someone else to pick up the licence on your behalf if necessary.

It is important to note that marriage laws and requirements can vary by location, so be sure to check with your local marriage licence office or bureau for specific instructions and guidelines. Additionally, marriage licences typically have a validity period, after which they will expire, so plan accordingly with your wedding date in mind.

Finding an officiant

Now that you've decided on a city hall wedding, you'll need to find an officiant to perform the ceremony. The process for this will depend on the location and type of ceremony you choose.

If you opt for a civil ceremony, also known as a public ceremony or courthouse wedding, your local county clerk's office will usually provide an officiant. This is typically a volunteer judge or deputy marriage commissioner who performs multiple ceremonies each day. In San Francisco, for example, civil ceremonies are held Monday through Friday, with up to two weddings scheduled every half hour.

For private ceremonies, you will generally need to provide your own officiant. If you prefer a close friend or family member to perform the ceremony, they can often apply to become a deputy marriage commissioner for the day. Alternatively, you can hire an experienced professional officiant, with prices starting from around $328.

When choosing an officiant, consider their style and presence. Do you want someone with a calm and commanding presence who can move between moments of sincerity and levity? Or perhaps you prefer a more light-hearted and humorous approach? It's also important to ensure that your officiant is familiar with the legal requirements for the marriage to be valid.

Don't forget to check with your local county clerk's office or city hall to understand the specific requirements and processes for your chosen location. They will be able to provide guidance on the necessary documentation, fees, and any other steps you need to take to make your special day official.

Where to take photos

City hall weddings are a great option for couples who want to avoid the stress and cost of a traditional wedding. They offer a simple, intimate, and low-key ceremony without the lengthy engagement. While some couples opt for a courthouse wedding for privacy, others choose this route because of the flexibility it offers for celebrating later.

The City Hall Itself

Many city halls feature dramatic architecture, sweeping staircases, and historic details that make for stunning backdrops. The Toronto City Hall Wedding Chambers, for example, features large windows overlooking iconic landmarks. Other notable city halls include:

• San Francisco City Hall: Known for its lavish interior and grand staircase.
• Mechelen City Hall in Belgium: Features romantic historic walkways.
• Allegheny County Courthouse in Pittsburgh: Elegant arches and a rich mahogany door.
• Chicago City Hall: Glamorous and chic with iconic signage.
• Pasadena City Hall in California: Photogenic early Renaissance style with Spanish influences.
• Copenhagen City Hall in Denmark: Captures moody romance.
• Islington Town Hall in London: Modern yet old-school charm.
• Arlington Town Hall in Massachusetts: Incredible lighting for portraiture.
• Dublin City Hall in Ireland: Breathtaking antiquated architecture and striking windows.

Nearby Parks or Botanical Gardens

If you're looking for a change of scenery, consider taking photos at a nearby park or botanical garden. This can be a great option if you're looking to incorporate natural elements or simply want a quiet, intimate setting for your photos.

Local Landmarks or City Streets

Incorporate the unique character of your city by taking photos at local landmarks or on bustling city streets. This can add a sense of place to your wedding photos and capture the energy of your urban surroundings. For example, a photo on Broad Street in Philadelphia captures the majestic look of the city.

Special Locations from Your Relationship

Make your city hall wedding photos even more meaningful by incorporating locations that hold a special place in your relationship. This could be where you had your first date, your first kiss, or where you proposed. These locations will not only make for great photos but will also evoke fond memories for years to come.

Frequently asked questions