Courthouse Wedding Guide: Quick, Legal, and Still Meaningful

A courthouse wedding is one of the most underrated options in wedding planning. We’ve photographed plenty of black-tie ballroom weddings… and we’ve also watched couples walk out of a courthouse holding hands, laughing, and looking like they just pulled off the smartest decision of their lives. If you want something quick, legal, and still meaningful, courthouse wedding planning can be a breath of fresh air—especially if you’re juggling family pressure, a tight budget, immigration paperwork, military timelines, pregnancy, health issues, or you simply don’t want to spend the next 14 months arguing about chair covers.

But here’s the truth: “simple” doesn’t mean “thoughtless.” Courthouse ceremonies can feel cold if you don’t plan a few key details. And they can feel magical—like a movie scene—if you do. This civil ceremony guide breaks down exactly what to expect at the courthouse, how scheduling and fees really work, what to wear, witnesses, photography rules (yes, they vary wildly), and how to make the whole thing feel like your wedding—not just an errand.

What a courthouse wedding actually is (and what it isn’t)

Let’s clear up confusion we see all the time.

A courthouse wedding is typically a civil ceremony performed by a government official (judge, magistrate, clerk, or authorized officiant) in a courthouse or a related government building. It’s legally binding, and it’s usually short.

Courthouse wedding vs. “city hall wedding” vs. “civil ceremony”

Different words, similar vibe.

• Courthouse wedding: Often tied to the county court system. Common in Virginia, Maryland counties, and many states nationwide.
• City hall wedding: Often run by a municipal clerk’s office (think San Francisco City Hall style).
• Civil ceremony: The umbrella term—any non-religious legal ceremony.

In practice, the rules are set by the local jurisdiction, not the phrase you use.

Hot take: “Courthouse weddings are less romantic” is nonsense

We’ve seen couples spend $75,000 and look miserable all day (because family drama and a 12-hour timeline will do that). We’ve also seen couples spend $200 at the courthouse and look radiant because they were present, relaxed, and focused on what mattered.

Romance isn’t a budget line item.

What you don’t get automatically

Courthouses are designed for legal work, not weddings. So don’t assume you’ll get:

• A pretty ceremony room
• A private space
• Great lighting
• A flexible schedule
• Permission for professional photography
• A long guest list

You might get some of those. But you have to check.

When a courthouse wedding makes sense (and when it doesn’t)

A courthouse wedding makes sense for more couples than wedding culture wants to admit.

The “yes, this is perfect” scenarios

We’ve seen courthouse wedding planning be the right move when:

1. You want to be married now (not after a 12–18 month planning cycle).
2. Your budget is tight and you’d rather spend on a honeymoon, a home, or paying off debt. (Our kind of practical.)
3. You hate being the center of attention.
4. You’re dealing with immigration, military orders, or health insurance timing.
5. You’re pregnant and don’t want to plan a big event while your feet hate you.
6. You want to keep family out of it (or keep it small enough that nobody can hijack it).
7. You’re planning a bigger celebration later but want the legal part done now (super common).

And if you’re trying to decide where your money should go, bookmark our Wedding Budget Guide 2026 page. It’ll help you choose what matters to you, not what Instagram says matters.

The “maybe not” scenarios

Courthouse might not be your best fit if:

• You want 50+ guests in the room (most courthouses can’t accommodate that).
• Your dream includes a specific religious ceremony performed by your faith leader.
• You want a long, personalized ceremony with readings, vows, music, and a processional.
• You know you’ll feel sad without the presence of certain people and you can’t bring them.

That said—there’s a middle ground: courthouse legal ceremony now, meaningful ceremony later with your officiant and your people.

Scheduling and fees: the part that’s not romantic but matters

Courthouse wedding planning lives or dies here. This is where couples get tripped up—because rules differ by county, and the person answering the phone might not be a wedding person. They’re a government employee. Be kind, be patient, and ask clear questions.

Typical courthouse wedding timeline (realistic version)

Here’s a common flow we see in the DC/MD/VA region and many East Coast areas:

1. Apply for marriage license: 1–30 days before (varies a lot by state/county).
2. Waiting period: Some places issue same-day; others require 24–72 hours.
3. Schedule ceremony appointment: Could be same week, could be 4–8 weeks out depending on staffing.
4. Ceremony length: Usually 5–15 minutes.
5. Get your certified marriage certificate: Sometimes same day, sometimes mailed 1–3 weeks later.

If you’ve got travel plans or paperwork deadlines, build a buffer. Don’t cut it close.

Common fees (ballpark ranges you can actually plan around)

Every county is different, but these ranges are typical:

• Marriage license: $30–$110
• Civil ceremony fee (judge/clerk): $25–$150
• Certified copies of marriage certificate: $5–$25 each
• Expedited certificate processing (if offered): $15–$50

So most couples are looking at $75–$250 in government fees, assuming no extras.

Best days and times to book (from people who’ve been there)

If you want less chaos:

• Best day: Tuesday–Thursday (Mondays can be backlog city; Fridays get weird).
• Best time: Mid-morning (10:00–11:30) or early afternoon (1:30–2:30).
• Avoid: Lunch hour, end-of-day, and any day with major court dockets.

Also, avoid holidays and the day before a holiday weekend. Everyone’s cranky, including parking.

What to ask when you call (or email)

Use a simple script. You’ll sound confident, and you’ll get better info:

• “Do you perform civil ceremonies at the courthouse or another location?”
• “Do we need an appointment or can we walk in?”
• “What days/times are ceremonies performed?”
• “How many guests can we bring?”
• “How many witnesses are required?”
• “Can we bring our photographer? Are phones allowed?”
• “Is there a ceremony room or is it at the counter?”
• “What IDs do we need and do they have to match our current address?”
• “How long does it take to receive certified copies afterward?”

Write the answers down. You won’t remember them once you’re juggling outfits, nerves, and parking.

What to expect at the courthouse (step-by-step, no surprises)

This is the part couples are most anxious about—because they don’t know what it’ll feel like. Totally normal.

Step 1: Security screening

Yes, like airport-lite.

You’ll usually go through a metal detector, and bags may be searched. Don’t bring anything that could be considered a weapon (obvious, but we’ve seen pocketknives derail timelines).

Leave weird stuff at home: pepper spray, corkscrews, multi-tools.

Step 2: Check-in and paperwork

You’ll check in at a clerk window or a designated office. You may:

• Show IDs
• Confirm your appointment
• Pay fees (card vs cash varies)
• Sign license paperwork

Expect waiting. Even with an appointment, delays happen.

Step 3: Waiting area vibes

It’s a courthouse. So the vibe can be:

• People paying tickets
• Custody hearings
• Jury duty
• Lawyers hustling
• A couple other wedding couples trying to keep their flowers alive

This is where your mindset matters. Don’t let the environment steal your joy.

You’re not “just doing paperwork.” You’re getting married.

Step 4: The ceremony

Most courthouse ceremonies are short and straightforward:

• A welcome
• A statement of intent (“Do you take…?”)
• Exchange of rings (optional)
• Pronouncement
• Signing

Some officials will allow personal vows. Many won’t. Some will allow a short reading. Many won’t. Ask in advance.

Step 5: Signing and leaving married

After the ceremony, you sign documents (often with witnesses). Then you’re done.

And then it hits you: you’re married. Just like that.

Bringing witnesses (and guests): rules, workarounds, and etiquette

Witness requirements vary. Many jurisdictions require 1–2 witnesses over 18 with valid ID. Some require none. Some require two no matter what.

Who makes the best courthouse witnesses?

Pick people who will keep you calm.

Great options:

• Your best friend who’s always on time
• A sibling who won’t make it about them
• Two friends who can keep things light if you’re nervous

Risky options:

• The chronically late cousin
• The friend who turns everything into a photoshoot (unless you want that)
• Anyone who’s going to argue with security or the clerk (hard pass)

What if you don’t have witnesses?

This happens more than you’d think—especially for couples planning quietly.

Options:

• Ask the courthouse if they provide staff witnesses (some do).
• Bring two trusted friends.
• If allowed, bring your photographer as a witness (in some places photographers can sign—ask first).
• Some jurisdictions allow no witnesses at all.

Guest count reality check

Many courthouses cap guests at something like 0–10 in the room. A few have a ceremony room that fits 20–30. It’s rare to get more without special arrangements.

If you want more people involved, use the “outside steps” strategy: keep the ceremony small, then meet everyone outside for cheers, hugs, and photos.

What to wear to a courthouse wedding (yes, it matters)

Wear something that feels like you, photographs well, and doesn’t make courthouse security a nightmare.

The three outfit paths we see most

1. Classic wedding attire: A white dress, suit, veil, bouquet—full send.
2. Modern minimalist: A sleek midi dress, jumpsuit, blazer set, simple bouquet.
3. “We look hot but not bridal”: Cocktail dress, nice suit, bold color, statement shoes.

All are valid. The goal is intentionality.

What photographs best in courthouse lighting

Courthouse interiors are often:

• Fluorescent
• Mixed color temperatures
• Beige walls
• Shiny floors
• Not designed for portraits

So we recommend:

• Solid colors, clean lines
• Avoid tiny busy patterns (they can moiré on camera)
• Avoid neon (it reflects color onto your skin)
• Consider texture: satin, crepe, lace, wool—these read beautifully

Shoes: choose pretty, but choose survivable

Courthouse weddings involve walking, standing, and sometimes stairs outside.

If you’re wearing heels:

• Make sure you can walk briskly in them
• Bring flats for afterward
• Consider block heels (more stable on courthouse steps)

Groom/partner attire: don’t sleep on tailoring

A $250 suit that fits well will look better than a $1,800 suit that doesn’t.

If you’re wearing a suit, get:

• Pants hemmed
• Sleeves adjusted
• Shirt that fits the neck and wrists

And steam everything. Wrinkles show up like crazy in photos.

Photography at the courthouse: what’s allowed, what’s smart, and what we recommend

This is our home turf at Precious Pics Pro, and we’ll be blunt: courthouse wedding photography can be incredible… or it can be a sad selfie in fluorescent light. The difference is planning.

If you want a bigger picture of photography styles and what matters, read our Wedding Photography Guide and our Elopement Photography Guide (courthouse weddings live in that same “small but meaningful” world).

The big variable: courthouse rules

Courthouses vary from:

• “Sure, bring a photographer, just don’t block hallways”

to

• “No cameras, no phones, no exceptions”

to

• “Photos allowed outside only”

Call and ask specifically:

• Are professional cameras allowed?
• Is flash allowed? (Usually no.)
• Can the photographer enter the ceremony room?
• Can we take photos in hallways/stairwells?
• Any permit needed?

If they say no photography inside, don’t argue. It won’t end well. Plan photos outside and at a nearby location instead.

Best courthouse photo plan (that doesn’t stress you out)

We usually recommend a 3-part plan:

1. Before ceremony (15–30 minutes): quick portraits nearby (outside or at a pretty block).
2. Ceremony coverage (if allowed): key moments, no fuss.
3. After ceremony (30–60 minutes): courthouse steps, family group photos, then a nearby portrait spot.

If you want something more editorial, add a second location (a park, a hotel bar, a favorite neighborhood).

How much photography coverage do you actually need?

Here’s a realistic breakdown.

Those are ballpark ranges we see for professional teams in major metro areas. Smaller towns can be lower; premium studios can be higher.

The unglamorous truth about courthouse interiors

If your courthouse allows photos inside, great. But don’t expect:

• big windows
• flattering light
• pretty walls
• uncluttered backgrounds

That’s why we often build the photo story around the courthouse: exterior architecture, nearby streets, a park, your favorite coffee shop, your home.

Posing help (without feeling awkward)

Courthouse couples often say, “We’re not doing a big wedding, so we don’t need posing.”

You still want photos where you look like yourselves, not like you’re waiting for the bus.

Start with our Wedding Photography Poses guide, and keep it simple:

• walk and talk
• hold hands and pause
• forehead-to-forehead
• one big hug
• look at each other, then look at the camera

And yes, we’ll guide you the whole time if you hire a pro. That’s literally the job.

Making it personal: how to add meaning without turning it into a big wedding

A courthouse ceremony is short. That doesn’t mean it has to feel generic.

Write private vows (even if you can’t read them in the courthouse)

If the courthouse ceremony is scripted, do this:

• Write personal vows
• Read them to each other before you enter the courthouse (outside, in the car, in a quiet corner)
• Or read them after the ceremony somewhere private

We’ve had couples do vows on a quiet DC side street with traffic noise in the background—and it still felt more intimate than a 200-person ballroom.

Bring small details that matter

A few ideas that don’t require permission:

• A bouquet (even a small one from Trader Joe’s—no shame)
• A boutonniere
• A family heirloom (ring box, handkerchief, jewelry)
• A meaningful book for photos (letters, vows)
• A tiny speaker for a first dance later (not in the courthouse)

Pick your “wedding moment” on purpose

If you’re skipping the traditional stuff, choose one or two moments to make it feel like a wedding day:

• First look
• Champagne toast outside
• A single slow dance at home
• A dinner reservation with a printed menu that says “Just Married”
• A cake cut (even a small one)

You don’t need 12 traditions. You need one or two that feel like you.

Include family without letting them take over

Family dynamics are… a lot. We’ve seen courthouse weddings calm things down, and we’ve seen them ignite drama because someone feels excluded.

A strategy that works:

• Keep the courthouse ceremony small (you + partner + witnesses)
• Invite family to meet you afterward for dinner or a toast
• Share a short photo gallery quickly (within a few days) so people feel included

If someone throws a tantrum about not being invited, that’s information. Not a reason to change your plan.

Celebration options after: from low-key to “surprise, it’s a party”

The courthouse wedding is the legal ceremony. The celebration is where you can shape the vibe.

Option 1: Restaurant lunch or dinner (the easiest win)

This is our most recommended option because it’s simple and feels special fast.

• Book a private room for 10–30 guests
• Order family-style or prix fixe
• Bring a small cake or dessert (ask about plating fees, usually $2–$6 per person)
• Do toasts, maybe a first dance if the space allows

Typical spend:

• $60–$150 per person depending on city and alcohol.

Option 2: Backyard celebration (cozy and personal)

Backyards are great, but don’t underestimate logistics.

Budget line items couples forget:

• Rentals (chairs, tables): $300–$1,500
• Tent (if needed): $800–$3,500
• Restroom trailer (if 30+ guests): $900–$2,200
• Sound: $150–$500

It can still be cheaper than a venue. Just don’t assume it’s “free.”

Option 3: Micro reception at a small venue

Think: private dining space, small event venue, brewery, wine bar, gallery.

This is a sweet spot for many couples:

• 25–60 guests
• Great photos
• Real party energy without the full wedding machine

Option 4: Do nothing that day (and celebrate later)

Contrarian take: this is totally fine.

We’ve had couples do courthouse on a Tuesday, go back to work Wednesday, and throw an amazing party three months later. Marriage and weddings don’t have to be on the same timeline.

Option 5: “Surprise wedding” party

This one’s fun if you have the right crowd.

You invite people to an “engagement party” or “family dinner,” then show up married. It’s bold. It’s also risky if you’ve got sensitive family politics.

Celebration comparison table

Courthouse wedding planning checklist (the version that actually works)

This is the practical stuff we’d put in your notes app.

4–8 weeks before

• Confirm marriage license requirements (IDs, birth certificates if needed, divorce decree if applicable)
• Apply for license (or schedule license appointment)
• Ask courthouse about photography rules and guest limits
• Choose witnesses and confirm availability
• Decide your post-ceremony plan (restaurant reservation, etc.)
• Book photographer (if hiring) and plan portrait locations

1–2 weeks before

• Finalize outfits and accessories
• Steam/press clothing
• Confirm courthouse appointment time and arrival instructions
• Confirm witness IDs
• Order bouquet/boutonniere (or plan DIY flowers)
• Create a simple timeline (even if it’s only 2 hours)

1–2 days before

• Pack your “wedding kit”
• Print confirmations (some courthouses love paper)
• Charge phones
• Confirm weather plan for outdoor photos
• Get cash if needed for fees/parking

Day of

• Eat something (hangry is not romantic)
• Arrive 30–45 minutes early (parking + security)
• Do your ceremony
• Take the photos you care about
• Celebrate in the way that fits you

What NOT to do: courthouse wedding red flags we see over and over

Courthouse weddings are simple, but they’re not foolproof.

Red Flags (avoid these)

1. Showing up without checking rules

We’ve seen couples turned away because they assumed walk-ins were allowed.

1. Inviting too many people “just in case”

Overcrowding leads to stress, and sometimes security will limit entry.

1. Forgetting witness ID requirements

A witness without proper ID can derail the legal part. That’s not a cute story.

1. Assuming you can take photos inside

Many courthouses do not allow professional cameras. Ask first.

1. Planning portraits in the middle of the day in July with no shade

You’ll sweat. Your makeup will melt. The photos will show it.

1. Skipping a celebration because you’re trying to be “low maintenance”

You don’t have to throw a party, but do something to mark the day—future-you will be glad you did.

1. Letting family guilt rewrite your plan

If you want a courthouse wedding, own it. Don’t apologize for it.

Building a simple courthouse wedding timeline (sample schedules)

Here are a few templates we’ve used with real couples.

Timeline A: “In and out, still cute” (90 minutes total)

• 9:30 AM — Meet photographer outside courthouse
• 9:35–9:55 — Quick portraits + detail shots
• 10:00 — Security + check-in
• 10:30 — Civil ceremony
• 10:45–11:00 — Courthouse steps + family photos
• 11:15 — Coffee/champagne toast nearby

Timeline B: “Courthouse + portraits + lunch” (3 hours)

• 1:00 PM — First look + portraits at nearby park
• 1:45 — Head to courthouse
• 2:15 — Ceremony
• 2:30–3:00 — Steps + group photos
• 3:30 — Restaurant celebration begins (toasts, dessert)

Timeline C: “Golden hour courthouse magic” (2.5–3 hours)

• 4:00 PM — Ceremony
• 4:30–5:45 — Portraits in best light
• 6:15 — Dinner reservation

This is why we love weekday weddings: you can get golden hour photos and still be in bed early.

Courthouse ceremony wording: what you can control

Some courts stick to a script. Some judges are surprisingly warm and flexible.

Ask about these options

• Can you exchange rings?
• Can you say personal vows (even short ones)?
• Can you include a short reading (30–60 seconds)?
• Can you play a song outside afterward for a first dance moment?
• Can you bring a small bouquet?

If you can’t personalize inside, personalize around it

We’ve had couples do:

• A first look before entering
• Private vows after leaving
• A toast with their witnesses on the steps
• A mini cake cut at dinner

The courthouse is the legal engine. You create the meaning.

How to keep it calm emotionally (because it’s still your wedding)

Courthouse weddings can be emotional in a sneaky way. The day is quiet, then suddenly you’re signing papers and thinking, “Oh. This is real.”

If you’re anxious, plan buffers

• Don’t schedule it the same day as a major work deadline.
• Don’t plan a 6-person brunch right after if you need decompression time.
• Build 30 minutes of “nothing” into the schedule.

If you’re worried it won’t feel special

It will—if you let it.

A few things that help:

• Get ready together or do a first look
• Bring flowers
• Hire a photographer for at least an hour
• Write vows or letters
• Plan a meal afterward with a toast

Courthouse wedding costs: a realistic budget snapshot

Courthouse wedding planning is often about saving money. Here’s where costs typically land.

Typical courthouse wedding budget ranges

• Bare bones (license + ceremony only): $75–$250
• Simple but meaningful (outfits + bouquet + dinner for 6–12): $800–$3,500
• Courthouse + pro photo + nice dinner for 20–30: $3,000–$10,000
• Courthouse now + bigger reception later: $10,000–$60,000+ (depends on the later event)

Want a full breakdown framework? Our Wedding Budget Guide 2026 is built for real decisions, not fantasy spreadsheets.

What’s worth spending on (our opinion)

If you’ve got limited budget, we’d prioritize:

1. Photography (you can’t redo this day later) — see Wedding Photography Guide
2. A great meal (it turns the day into a celebration)
3. Outfits that make you feel amazing
4. Flowers or a small detail that feels “wedding”

Hot take: Skip expensive decor for a courthouse wedding. The courthouse doesn’t become a venue because you added a sign. Put that money into experiences and photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

People also ask: How long does a courthouse wedding take?

Most courthouse ceremonies take 5–15 minutes, but the total time at the courthouse is usually 45–120 minutes once you factor in security, check-in, and waiting. If you’re doing photos, plan for 2–3 hours total so you’re not rushed. We’ve seen “quick” days feel chaotic when couples plan too tightly.

People also ask: Do you need witnesses for a courthouse wedding?

Many jurisdictions require 1–2 witnesses over 18, but some require none. Your witnesses typically need valid photo ID and must be present to sign documents. Call your courthouse and ask specifically what they require so you’re not scrambling on the day.

People also ask: Can you bring a photographer to a courthouse wedding?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no—courthouse rules vary a lot. Some allow professional cameras in ceremony rooms; others allow photos only outside, and some restrict all photography inside. Confirm rules in advance and build a photo plan around what’s allowed (portraits outside + nearby locations work beautifully).

People also ask: What should I wear to a courthouse wedding?

Wear something that feels like you and photographs well—anything from a wedding dress and suit to a chic jumpsuit or cocktail outfit. Courthouses tend to have harsh lighting, so solid colors and clean lines usually look best. Bring comfortable shoes or a backup pair if you’ll be walking or using courthouse steps for photos.

People also ask: How much does a courthouse wedding cost?

Most couples spend $75–$250 on government fees (license, ceremony fee, certified copies). If you add outfits, flowers, photography, and a celebration meal, a more realistic courthouse wedding budget is often $800–$10,000, depending on guest count and vendor choices.

People also ask: Can we write our own vows at a courthouse wedding?

Some judges or clerks allow personal vows, but many stick to a standard script. If personal vows aren’t allowed inside, we recommend doing private vows before or after the courthouse ceremony—your photographer can capture it quietly if photography is allowed.

People also ask: Is a courthouse wedding legally recognized everywhere?

A properly issued marriage license and a legally authorized officiant/judge make your marriage legally valid in the U.S., and it’s generally recognized across states. International recognition can vary, especially if you need an apostille or additional documentation. If you’re planning international paperwork, order multiple certified copies and ask your clerk about apostille steps.

Final Thoughts: quick doesn’t mean rushed, and simple doesn’t mean forgettable

A courthouse wedding can be the calmest, happiest wedding day you’ll ever have—if you plan the right few details and ignore the noise from people who think “real weddings” require chair covers and a five-tier cake.

Keep it legal. Keep it intentional. And give yourselves time for the moments that matter: a breath before you walk in, a hand squeeze after you say “I do,” and a celebration that feels like you.

If you want your courthouse day documented with the same care we bring to full wedding weekends, our team at Precious Pics Pro would love to help—whether you need one hour of coverage on the courthouse steps or a full story that includes portraits and a celebration afterward. Start with our Elopement Photography Guide and Wedding Photography Guide, then reach out through preciouspicspro.com when you’re ready.

Learn more about planning a small, meaningful day in our Elopement Photography Guide guide.