Recently I have fallen in love with the idea of a courthouse wedding, but as a Charlottesville wedding photographer I don’t see many couples opting for a small elopement. If you are considering eloping at the courthouse, then here are some answers to your most asked questions! From what to wear to the cost, we have it all covered here!
How Does A Courthouse Wedding Work
The best part of getting married the courthouse is how simple it is! It’s a super straightforward process that includes applying for your marriage license, scheduling a date, bringing the required documents and having a brief ceremony. Then you get your marriage certificate, and you are married!
How Much Does It Cost To Have A Courthouse Wedding
To get a marriage license in Virginia, the fee is just $30! This cost is the same in most Virginia counties, although some counties may charge a processing fee for credit card payments. It will be collected at the courthouse by the Clerk of Court.
In addition to the $30 fee you will need to bring a few other things to the courthouse. Both you and your partner need to be present with valid, government issued photo IDs. Your license will be valid for 60 days, meaning you will need to make it official and get married within two months in the state of Virginia.
Officiant Fee
The only other fee you will need to pay is for your officiant. Most Virginia courthouses have a list of celebrant officiants with their individuals costs and fees. These are usually under $100. Be sure to ask about your courthouse wedding and scheduling a date when you go to get your marriage license.
What To Wear To A Courthouse Wedding
Of course, you can wear whatever you want for your wedding. But I absolutely love the vibe of Veronica’s bridal look! Her short white dress gave a very carefree look, while her accessories brought a more bridal feel to her look. The bow, shoes and glasses were simple and classy, brought it all together!
Do You Say Vows At A Courthouse Wedding
Yes! You do get to include your own vows at the courthouse. Before you step into your ceremony you will have some correspondence with your officiant. During that conversation you can ask about vow reading and any other sentiments you would like to include in your ceremony.
How Long Is A Courthouse Wedding
A courthouse wedding is pretty short and sweet! This is because it is a simple ceremony and then you are off to celebrate on your own. I would say they never last more than an hour. You will arrive on your predetermined time and day, check in, wait a few minutes for your officiant, head over to your location at the courthouse, and then the ceremony is anywhere from 10-20 minutes. Afterwards you sign some paperwork and turn it in so you can get your official marriage certificate!
Virginia Wedding Photos
When deciding on where to have your ceremony, I recommend considering the backdrop for photos. If you get married in a conference room at the courthouse, your backdrop will not be as pretty as if you were to do it in front of the building (like this couple did) or in a courtyard.
In addition, we will take some time after your ceremony to capture wedding photos around the courthouse and even at other locations downtown. It all just depends on which courthouse you choose, the surroundings of downtown, and what package you book with me. But trust me when I say, the photos will turn out so beautiful!
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