What to Know About Planning a Wedding at City Hall

City Hall weddings hold a special place in America's heart. They're intimate, timeless, and are the ultimate gesture of true love and commitment. City Hall weddings usually entail classy and modern attire, light and airy photography, dinner at an elegant restaurant and that's just about all you need — doesn't get any better if you ask us.

Booking considerations

There are a couple of important things to consider when getting married at City Hall:

❤️ Review the rules for your county/city. Many city halls require you to book a second appointment after your ceremony to obtain your marriage license, while others make you do it weeks or days before.

❤️ You still need a witness, just because you're eloping doesn't mean you get to go witness-less. Might as well make it someone you know!

❤️ There is a common misconception that you can just show up and get married at a courthouse. Most courthouses book our weeks or months in advance.  Plan ahead!

 How city hall/courthouse weddings score in our Venue Quiz

Traditional vs. Non-Traditional 👉 Though this is considered a timeless American tradition, getting married at the courthouse today is considered a non-traditional event.

Guest count 👉 Micro-weddings for the win! There is the rare exception that you could get married at a big City Hall, like the San Francisco City Hall that takes huge parties as well, but we consider that to be more like a ballroom wedding. 

Fancy vs. Casual 👉 Right in the middle. Dress up like your life depends on it, but there is no strict itinerary and you are the writers of your day ;)

Urban vs. Nature 👉 Urban. If you like the city, you can't get closer to a more urban venue than City Hall. 

Location 👉 Every city has got one! Right? 

Elderly/Special Needs 👉 Courthouses are very accommodating for all ages and special needs.

DIY vs. Turnkey 👉 Turnkey and simple! Not much to do but look pretty and show up.

Outdoor vs. Indoor 👉 Indoor, get married any time of the year!

Personal Style 👉 Private estates win the Modern with Timeless influence style in our Stylegram™. Learn more about personal style and how it relates to your wedding here.

Budget Range 👉 You can't get more affordable than a courthouse wedding. On a shoestring budget? This just might be the perfect solution for you.