Town Hall Wedding: What To Expect

A town hall wedding is a great option for couples who want a small and intimate ceremony. It's also a wonderful choice for those who want to elope or have a micro wedding. Town hall weddings are usually simpler and more low-key than traditional weddings, but they can still be personalised and made special. The process typically involves obtaining a marriage license, scheduling the wedding ceremony, and bringing the necessary documentation on the day. There may be limits on the number of guests and decorations, but couples can incorporate their own touches through readings, personal vows, and music.

Choose a location that's meaningful to you

Choosing a location that's meaningful to you and your partner is a great way to make your wedding day extra special. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect spot:

• Pick a place that holds special significance: Whether it's the city where you met, fell in love, or currently reside, selecting a location that has a personal connection will make your wedding even more memorable.
• Don't feel limited to your local government building: If your local town hall doesn't feel right, explore other options. You can travel to another destination and make it part of your honeymoon or a family vacation.
• Research marriage license requirements: Each city or county may have different requirements and processes for obtaining a marriage license. Be sure to research the specific rules for your chosen location.
• Consider your guest list: Think about how many guests you plan to invite and choose a location that can accommodate them. Also, consider the convenience for your guests, especially if they need to travel.
• Create a checklist: Make a list of all the necessary paperwork, documents, and other requirements for your chosen location. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don't miss anything important.
• Add personal touches: Even if you're having a small wedding, you can incorporate special touches to make the day unique. Consider carrying a bouquet, giving a toast, or planning a post-ceremony celebration with your closest family and friends.

Research marriage license requirements

When it comes to town hall weddings, or courthouse weddings, there are a few things to keep in mind when researching marriage license requirements.

Firstly, it's important to note that the requirements may vary depending on your location. In the United States, marriage licenses are typically issued by specific offices, such as the city hall, the town or city clerk's office, or the marriage license bureau within your county. It's crucial to locate the correct office and understand their specific requirements and application process. Some counties may also offer online applications or appointments.

In terms of timing, there is usually a specific window around your wedding date within which you must apply for, receive, sign, and submit your marriage license. It's recommended to plan and file for your license early, ideally at least one week before your wedding, to avoid any last-minute rushes or issues with expiration dates. Some states and counties also have mandatory waiting periods between granting the license and the wedding, which can range from 24 hours to 72 hours.

When applying for your marriage license, both you and your partner will typically need to appear in person and provide various forms of identification and documentation. These typically include proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport, photo identification, social security numbers, and proof of citizenship or residence. If either party has been previously married, you will also need to provide proper proof of divorce or widowhood. There may be additional requirements for underage applicants or special cases, such as military personnel.

Fees for marriage licenses vary depending on the location and can range from $35 to $150 in the US. Some offices may also charge additional fees for certain services or documents. It's important to check with your local office to understand their specific payment requirements and accepted methods of payment.

Lastly, don't forget to bring your marriage license to your wedding ceremony. After the ceremony, the couple, witnesses, and the officiant will typically sign the marriage license, and the officiant will submit it for certification within a specified time frame.

Remember to always check with your local offices and websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding marriage license requirements.

Apply for the marriage license

Applying for a Marriage License

The process of applying for a marriage license will differ depending on your location. In the US, marriage licenses are issued by the county, so you'll need to check the specific requirements of your county. In Massachusetts, for example, you'll need to fill out a Notice of Intention of Marriage Form and provide proof of age, Social Security number, payment for fees, and the name you'll use after the wedding if you've decided to change it. You'll also need to make an appointment and bring valid identification and the application fee to your appointment.

In the UK, the process involves giving notice at your local registry office, even if you've chosen a different registry office for your wedding. You'll need to book an appointment and bring documentation such as proof of your name, age, and nationality, as well as proof of address. There is a fee for giving notice, which is typically around £35-£50 per person. After giving notice, there is a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of 12 months before your marriage can take place.

Once you've determined the specific requirements for your location, gather all the necessary documents and schedule an appointment if required. Be sure to bring all the required documentation to your appointment, including valid identification and payment for any fees. After submitting your application, there may be a waiting period before you can pick up your marriage license, so be sure to plan accordingly.

It's important to note that marriage licenses are typically valid for a limited period, such as 60 days, so be sure to time your application accordingly. Additionally, marriage licenses are usually specific to the state or country where they are issued, so if you're planning a destination wedding, you may need to obtain a marriage license from that location as well.

Make an appointment or nominate a day

Depending on the city or county, you may be able to make an advance appointment for your ceremony. If you can, be aware that there may be a significant wait to secure an appointment. If you can't make an appointment, you'll need to nominate a day to arrive and wait for your turn. If you want a weekend wedding date, it may be challenging to find a courthouse offering appointments on those days. Most courthouses operate Monday through Friday, but check with your local courthouse.

Your marriage license will only be valid for a certain period, so work backward from your civil ceremony date to ensure you're within the time frame.

Invite your closest family and friends

A town hall wedding is a great option for couples who want a small, intimate and fuss-free wedding. It's also a good way to cut costs on your wedding budget.

If you're planning a town hall wedding, here are some tips for inviting your closest family and friends:

• Keep the guest list small: Town hall weddings typically have a limit on the number of guests that can attend, usually between 10-15 people. So, it's important to pare down your guest list to only those who are closest to you.
• Check the rules: Different town halls may have different rules about the number of guests allowed, so be sure to check with your specific location in advance.
• Send invitations in advance: Even though your guest list may be small, it's still important to send invitations in advance so that your closest family and friends can plan to attend. Try to give them as much notice as possible, especially if they need to make travel arrangements.
• Consider having a maid of honour or best man as a witness: This can be a way to include your closest family or friends in the ceremony.
• Plan for a post-ceremony celebration: Consider hosting a small dinner or reception at a local restaurant after the ceremony to celebrate with your closest family and friends. This can be a fun and intimate way to mark the occasion.
• Be creative with your guest list: If you're having a hard time deciding who to invite, consider thinking outside the box. For example, you could invite a close friend or family member who lives far away to attend virtually or include a pet as an honorary guest.

Frequently asked questions