When referring to getting married there are numerous techniques on how to show love ranging from bund ceremonies to backyard weddings. Nevertheless, for those people who have no desire to exaggerate, spend a lot of money and come up with various themes for creating the enchanting beginning of married life, a wedding in the court is a great solution. Allow me to explore the current trends behind marrying at the courthouse, and ways that you can make your experience as unique and pleasant as possible, allure and excitement of marrying at the courthouse notwithstanding.
What is a Courthouse Wedding?
A courthouse wedding is also referred to as civil wedding or civil union and it is a legal wedding that has to be performed with the presence of a civil authority such as a judge, magistrate, justice of peace at the local, city or county courthouse. It does not capture all UIBarren like those of traditional marriages but insists on the legal processes of marriage.
Why Choose a Courthouse Wedding?
1. Budget-Friendly Option
Celestial ceremonies are costly, and the cost tends to rise into tens of thousands of dollars. A courthouse wedding however is a relative fraction of that cost. Reducing costs associated with venue, catering and decorations are great ways of spending little while still enjoying the day.
2. Stress-Free Planning
However, organizing traditional wedding may require the couples to arrange for months before the actual date, considering everything from wedding venue to the list of witnesses . Unlike other types of weddings, courthouse weddings do not need much preparation. It only entails the booking of an appointment and presenting oneself together with required documents.
3. Intimate and Personal
If you don’t want the company of many people, a courthouse wedding might be the perfect choice for an intimate wedding. It also favored those couples who do not wish anything else to distract them during the recitation of their vows.
4. Quick and Convenient
For couples who want to get married and do not want to wait, a courthouse wedding is fast. It is particularly useful to those people who have limited time or those who are waiting for some time sensitive events such as deployment, visa expiry and the likes.
How to Plan Your Courthouse Wedding
An easy process of courthouse wedding is as follows;
1. Research Local Requirements
The rules of courthouse weddings differ from one state to another, and each state has a different set of rules. Some require appointments, while others accept walk-ins. Research what documents you’ll need, such as:
- A valid ID
- A marriage license (Although sometimes required to be procured before the event).
- Divorce papers if any
2. Choose Your Witnesses
Most jurisdictions insist on at least one or two witnesses. These can be friends, relatives and sometimes even personnel working in the court house. Ensure the witnesses you called come along with their identification.
3. Pick an Outfit
Of course, you don’t need to look like you’re at aatha this is a courthouse wedding. Whether you’re planning a big white wedding dress, a stunning jumpsuit or an elegant black tie suit, wear whatever will make you feel happy.
4. Plan a Post-Ceremony Celebration
If the actual ceremony will be brief, then you can prolong it in some way afterwards. A few ideas for activities that come to mind are; having dinner out, going for drinks, or simply getting a whole weekend away.
Adding Personal Touches to Your Courthouse Wedding
While a courthouse wedding is as official as any other type of wedding, the following tips will help you make it very romantic.
1. Exchange Personal Vows
Ceremonies held inside a courthouse involve the use of recited vows though you may propose personal vow. Having personal vows means you will be saying things that only the two of you know.
2. Bring a Photographer
Don’t forget to take photos, either hire a photographer or ask someone who is attending the event. It is always good to find many courthouses which surround few beautiful scenic places where you can take your backgrounds.
3. Integrate Accessorizing Symbols
Take a flower, wear an engagement ring or have colorful shoes to make the day as special as possible.
4. Involve Loved Ones
Let only those people who are very dear to you attend your wedding ceremony. Whether it is a small party they will deign to grace the event and make it warm and splendid.
Courthouse Wedding Etiquette
1. Arrive on Time
Courthouses are usually very busy and having good punctuality is greatly valued.
2. Keep the Guest List Small
Because most courthouse weddings take place in a small room, invite only the closest family members or a few friends at most.
3. Respect the Environment
Courthouses are open to the public and you will find that there are other couples and cases are going on around you.
Courthouse Wedding Myths Debunked
1. “It’s Not Romantic”
Who got it wrong that romance was always associated with chandeliers and ballrooms? A courthouse wedding is very basic and does not have any distractions that may come along with having a big wedding.
2. “It’s Too Casual”
You can make your courthouse wedding as stylish as you wish it to be. You will find that there is a wide amount of space available for you to display as much of your personality as you’d like.
3. “It’s Only for Certain Situations”
Some couples get married in the courthouse due to the convenience it provides, but the majority of them do that because they like the idea of not having a flashy wedding.
Courthouse Weddings Around the World
They aren’t even restricted to the United States: courthouse marriages are celebrated globally. In France, for example, couples must have a civil wedding even if they are planning to have a church wedding. In Denmark, which is famous for international marriages, everything is rather simple and opened to everybody.
Is a Courthouse Wedding Right for You?
If you are in the process of choosing the best option for a wedding, consider the following questions. Are you a minimalist or you prefer opulence? Do you have a small budget on which you are working on? Would you like to not have to deal with the pressure that comes with a big party? If the answer is yes, a courthouse wedding could work well for you, if only you can find a little bit of freedom in it.
Real Stories: Couples Who Said “I Do” at the Courthouse
Emily and Jake
This is why we wanted a day that would be just for us. The ceremony we had was held inside the courthouse, and then we had some quiet picnic in the park. It was perfect.”
Sophia and Liam
Since Liam went to the military we had to find fast solution before he goes to the army. It was a lovely courthouse wedding and afterwards, we returned for a more festive event to several-party-happy-hour.
Making Memories After the Courthouse Ceremony
And I’m glad to say that your wedding doesn’t end at the courthouse doors. Here are some ideas for celebrating your new marriage:
- Host a Reception Later: Hold a feast, with friends, and with family, whether it is a barbeque or fancy dinner.
- Go on a Mini-Moon: It’s time to have a short weekend getaway to the nearest location.
- Create a Wedding Album: Take some pictures during the ceremony and the celebration following the ceremony to always look at over and over again.
The Takeaway
A courthouse wedding is evidence that love can be beautiful without all the ritz and glamour. It is about the commitments that are made, and the wonderful path, that is about to be shared with you. Obviously the ceremony is different whether you are getting married in a huge cathedral or getting a ‘quickie’ marriage in a courthouse, however the marriage is the same.
Therefore, if the desire for a simple intimate even a little utilitarian wedding does appeal to you do not hesitate to make that appointment at the Town Hall. Everyone’s love story is unique, and therefore your special day should be marked in the most special manner that you wish.
FAQs
1. What is the price of a courthouse wedding?
The cost most probably is different in fee but the overall price ranges from $50 to $200 that includes the amount paid for the marriage license fee.
2. Can we bring our own officiant?
Some courthouses permit outside officiants however others require that you hire a judge or justice of the peace that works for the courthouse.
3. What should we wear to a courthouse wedding?
Just anything that makes you feel wanted or feel loved which is pretty much anything I guess. Whether it is the comfort wear, business casual or the evening gown and tuxedo, the world is your candy.
4. How long does a courthouse wedding ceremony last?
Most ceremonies are short – no longer than 10 – 15 minutes.
5. Can we have a reception anyway if we opt for a courthouse wedding?
Absolutely! Some couples desire a second reception for to express happiness to friends and relatives after the traditional wedding celebration.