A Photographer’s Guide to Courthouse Weddings: Simple, Special, and Beautiful
There’s something so meaningful about a courthouse wedding — the simplicity, the intimacy, and the pure focus on your love and commitment to each other. If you’re dreaming of a day that feels genuine, heartfelt, and stress-free, a courthouse ceremony might be exactly what you’re looking for.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve captured so many courthouse weddings for couples who wanted to make it official in a way that felt true to them. And on a personal note, I chose to elope myself (not at a courthouse, but in a small, simple setting), and I loved every moment of it. We made our day special with a photographer to document it, a small dessert for the two of us (baklava, our favorite), a bottle of champagne, a speaker to play our first dance song, and a meaningful meal afterward. It was relaxed, personal, and absolutely perfect.
If you’re thinking about a courthouse wedding, I want to help you plan one that feels just as special. Here’s everything you should know.
Why Courthouse Weddings Are So Wonderful
Courthouse ceremonies are:
- Budget-friendly
- Intimate and meaningful
- Perfect for couples who want to keep things simple
- Quicker and easier to plan on a shorter timeline
Just because you’re having a small wedding doesn’t mean it can’t be filled with beauty and personal touches.
Booking Your Courthouse Appointment
One of the first things to do is check your local courthouse’s rules. Many require appointments for ceremonies, and spots can fill up quickly, especially around popular dates and holiday weekends. I HIGHLY recommend getting your appointment date and time set up as soon as possible!
Make sure you know:
- How far in advance you need to book
- What forms of ID you’ll need
- Witness requirements
- How many guests you can bring
- Whether photos are allowed inside the courtroom
If photography inside the courtroom is not permitted, don’t worry — we can always plan a beautiful portrait session outside afterward.
Planning a Smooth Courthouse Wedding Timeline
Even a simple courthouse wedding deserves a thoughtful timeline so you don’t feel rushed. Here’s a sample to get you started:
Getting ready (about 1 to 2 hours before your appointment)
Take time to do your hair and makeup, get dressed, and gather everything you need — your license, IDs, rings, vows, and any special details you’d like photographed.
Arrival at the courthouse (about 15 to 30 minutes before)
Check in with the clerk, meet up with any guests or witnesses, and take a few moments to breathe before the ceremony.
Ceremony (usually 10 to 15 minutes)
Most courthouse ceremonies are short and sweet.
Portraits (about 30 to 45 minutes after)
Plan time to take photos on the courthouse steps, nearby parks, or in any spots that feel meaningful to you.
Celebration afterward
Consider booking lunch or dinner at your favorite restaurant, or even sharing a toast with close family and friends.
Ways to Make It Feel Personal
Courthouse weddings don’t have to feel impersonal or rushed. Here are some ways to bring extra meaning to your day:
- Bring a bouquet or boutonniere
- Write personal vows you can share privately outside the courthouse after the ceremony
- Play a first dance song on a small speaker
- Pop a bottle of champagne on the courthouse steps
- Plan a dessert to share afterward
- Invite a small group of loved ones to celebrate with you
- Schedule a portrait session at a nearby park or another favorite location
These little details can make a courthouse wedding feel every bit as magical as a traditional wedding day.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a courthouse wedding, remember that simple can still be deeply beautiful and meaningful. Book your appointment early, build in time for photos, and don’t be afraid to add personal touches that feel true to you.
I’d love to help you capture those memories if you’re considering courthouse wedding photography — feel free to reach out to talk through your plans. You deserve to have photos that tell your story, no matter how big or small the celebration.
