Courthouse weddings are just as romantic as lavish weddings: the ceremony may be brief, but the meaning is equally as powerful. In some ways, it can be seen as stripping a wedding back to what matters the most – two people who truly love each other creating an everlasting partnership. Many couples choose to go down this route for a plethora of reasons: some to keep it simple, others to keep it cost-efficient, and many to keep it private and all the more meaningful. Whatever your reason, we’re here to try and help you plan it out (even just a little)! So, sit back, relax (with a pen and notebook in hand), and enjoy the read!
Envision the Blueprint
First things first: imagine you’re reading this as if it’s a guided meditation – close your eyes, wiggle your fingers, and feel your breath. Imagine you’re standing, hand in hand with your partner, about to be married. What do you see? Is it a courthouse? A town hall? A registry office, even? And now, which loved ones are by your side (this will be your guest list)? Of course, whatever you decide will be based on where you will tie the knot, so once you have that detail, you’ll see what ‘doors’ are available. So, figure out the where and then you’ll be able to determine the who! This will be your starting point, and after that, the rest of the pieces will fall into place.
Lock it In
Once you’ve filled out all the paperwork and made your final decision on the location, then it’s time to lock in a date and start thinking about your VIPs! Depending on your choice, make sure to review the rules and restrictions of your venue, because some may allow a capacity of, let’s say, ten people, and others could hold up to thirty! Then all you have to do is design your unique Save the Dates and/or wedding invitations! Now, if you’re having a reception afterwards, consider creating two different kinds – one for the ceremony attendees, the other for the reception guests (and double-check before sending them off; we wouldn’t want any surprise guests to show up at the courthouse). Or, to make life even simpler, consider designing some digital invites!
Make it Truly One-of-a-Kind
Even though you may cross paths with other nearlyweds (which in itself is very cute), that doesn’t mean you can’t make your day truly one-of-a-kind. Your vows, for example, will be tailored just for you and your soon-to-be spouse! You’ll have your own rings, a stunning bouquet, not to mention your outfits (which we’ll get to shortly). You can also choose what song you’d like to play before, during, or right after the ceremony! Some venues allow you to play music, and others allow you to bring your own speaker, but be sure to check the rules beforehand. Finally, and probably the most obvious difference, is that there’s no couple there quite like you (unless clones are now a thing, in which case we were never informed).
Your Courthouse Wedding Fit Check
Now we’re getting to the juicy stuff! For courthouse weddings, people often tend to choose more low-key ensembles, sticking with a simple (yet elegant) look. Of course, if you’ve dreamed of a train, then who are we to tell you to skip out on it? Be as extravagant as your heart desires! Grooms, you can stick with a simple suit or tux. Some often choose to rent their attire just for the day, or even for a few hours, and if you’re on a minimal budget, then that’s the way to go! If you’re feeling extra spontaneous, many couples, regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, or otherwise, opt to go for a matching pair of outfits! That doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll be the exact same, but similar enough (and matching looks come out crazy good in pictures). And certainly don’t forget to throw on something old, new, borrowed, and blue.
Have the Lens at the Ready
No matter your circumstances, you simply must get some pictures of the day (we bet your album would be very sad to be left all alone, without serving its purpose)! Many couples choose to hire a photographer for their ceremony – it tends to be much cheaper as the photographer only needs to be hired for a few hours (unless you want them at your afterparty too). And since a lot of cash is saved doing a courthouse wedding, then why not? Or, if you’re lucky enough to have a friend who’s a top-tier photographer, then even better! When all’s said and done, you can share them across the socials, frame them, or turn them into prints!
From “I Do” to “Let’s Party”
You’ll have said your nuptials, exchanged rings, and kissed the love of your life. Serotonin will course through your body, and the world will appear brighter and full of joy, so let’s carry that vibe into the afterparty! Couples often choose to host a small reception in a restaurant, bar, or even their own home (if space allows it). Others like to go for an opulent dinner with their nearest and dearest. It’s even becoming widely popular to ditch the expenses of a party and put that cash towards an extra-long, extra-relaxing, sun-filled honeymoon! Whatever your choice, remember: it’s your wedding, so don’t feel pressured into anything and just enjoy the day however you see fit.
Set Sail into Happily Ever After
Well, readers, we’ve reached the end of this week’s “how-to” wedding article! A courthouse wedding is the same as any other wedding, with the core meaning being the love shared between two people. This will be one of the most special days of your life, so relish in the excitement and declare your partnership for the whole world to see!
Adam L is a Content Specialist from Kerry, Ireland. His passions include going for long runs, video games, a love for animals, coffee, and travel!
