How to get married at the courthouse in Utah

Getting married at a courthouse is a wonderful option for couples looking for a low-stress, intimate, and meaningful ceremony. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to focus on what truly matters—each other—without all the pressure of a traditional wedding. Plus, it can be a unique and memorable experience when planned thoughtfully! Whether you’re looking for something simple or a little more extravagant, here’s a guide on how to get married at the courthouse and make it an unforgettable occasion.

Why Choose a Courthouse Wedding?

A courthouse wedding offers couples a stress-free, intimate setting to exchange vows and legally commit to each other. The best part? You don’t have to sacrifice style, good photos or a wedding experience. Courthouse elopements have becoming increasingly popular. They used to be seen as a low commitment, lack of effort, impulsive, secret or even a way to “sacrifice a fairytale wedding”. In 2025 that just isn’t the case anymore. Here are just a few reasons people may choose this option:

• Simplicity: Not ever couple wants the stress of planning a big party and that’s ok!
• Intimacy and Privacy: The guest list has to be short or nonexistent.
• Avoiding Family Drama: When you get a lot of people together this is a risk.
• Non-Traditional Values: A courthouse wedding may align with their values of simplicity, practicality, and rejecting the commercialization of marriage.
• Shorter Timeline: Courthouse weddings are quick to arrange. Couples who want to marry without the long lead time needed for traditional weddings can do so quickly, often within weeks or even days.
• Stress-free experience: There’s no need to worry about catering, flowers, entertainment, or any of the other elements that come with a typical wedding.
• Avoiding Pressure or Expectations: Some people don’t want to be in the spotlight, and that’s ok.
• Focus on the Marriage, Not the Wedding.
• Time Constraints: Couples with busy schedules or specific life plans may not have the time to dedicate to planning and hosting a traditional wedding.
• Personal or Religious Beliefs
• Flexibility for Future Celebrations
• Health or Safety Concerns

How to Plan a Courthouse Wedding:

Choose the Perfect Courthouse

When you think of getting married at the courthouse, you might picture a simple, no-frills room, but many courthouses offer beautiful, historic, and charming venues to tie the knot. Utah, in particular, is home to some stunning courthouses that will make your ceremony feel special. Here are some of the prettiest courthouses in Utah:

• Utah County Historic Courthouse (Provo): With its picturesque old-world charm, this courthouse offers a classic and elegant atmosphere for a small, intimate wedding
• Davis County Courthouse (Farmington): A smaller but beautiful courthouse with a scenic setting that’s perfect for couples looking for a more intimate vibe.
• Salt Lake City & County Building (Salt Lake City): This historic building features beautiful architecture and grand interior spaces that make it a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos.
• Ogden Courthouse (Ogden): A classic option with rich architectural details and a charming atmosphere for a low-key, lovely ceremony.
• Box Elder County Courthouse (Brigham City): This smaller courthouse offers a more personal and peaceful environment, perfect for an intimate wedding day.

Plan Your Date and Time

1. Most courthouses offer specific times and dates for weddings, so it’s important to check ahead and book your appointment as early as possible. Courthouses can get busy, especially around holidays or peak wedding seasons, so securing your desired date is essential.
2. Gather Necessary Documents Before you can get married at the courthouse, you’ll need to make sure you have all the required paperwork. This typically includes:
   • Marriage license (can be obtained from the county clerk’s office)
   • Proof of identification
   • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable)
   Double-check with the courthouse for any specific requirements before your big day!

Find Vendors for Your Courthouse Wedding

Even though your ceremony itself may be simple, there are still opportunities to add some personal touches and make it extra special. Here’s a list of vendors you may want to include in your courthouse wedding:

• Photographer: Your wedding happens once. Hiring a photographer experienced in this kind of wedding can ensure you get images that truly reflect you and your partner.
• Hair & Makeup Artist: A professional can help you look and feel your best. You can even opt for getting ready photos. Empire Beauty is my go to.
• Florist: Consider a small bouquet or boutonniere for the two of you to enhance the intimacy of the ceremony. Duet Flowers is my go to.
• Officiant: Some courthouses offer an officiant, but if you’re looking for something more personal, you can always hire an officiant to customize your ceremony.
• Reception Venue: If you want to continue the celebration afterward, choose a nearby restaurant or small venue for a private gathering.

Here is a list of gathering locations:

• Hobble Creek Events – Springville, UT
• La Jolla Groves -Provo, UT
• Rodizio Grill – SLC, UT
• The Alta Club – SLC, UT
• The Grand America Hotel – SLC, UT
• Log Haven – SLC, UT
• The Copper Onion – Salt Lake City, UT
• The Bungalow – Pleasant Grove, UT
• The Rooftop – Lehi, UT
• The Tasting Room – Salt Lake City, UT
• Siegfried’s Deli – Salt Lake City, UT

For more ideas contact me now

Select Unique Wedding Dress Options:

One of the great things about getting married at the courthouse is that you can go for a more relaxed and non-traditional look or you can go for the traditional looks It’s up to you. Here are some unique wedding dress ideas for your courthouse ceremony:

• Chic Jumpsuit: A stylish wedding jumpsuit can be modern and sleek while offering comfort and movement for a low-stress day.
• Boho-Inspired Dress: Light, airy, and perfect for an intimate, easy-going ceremony, a bohemian dress will give you the freedom to feel relaxed yet chic.
• Tea-Length Dress: For a more vintage look, a tea-length dress offers a timeless feel with a touch of fun.
• Simple Shift Dress: Opt for a minimalistic approach with a simple shift dress or a beautifully tailored knee-length gown.
• Dressy Romper: For an ultra-casual and modern vibe, a dressy romper is an easy and stylish choice that will set the tone for your relaxed day.

Vow Ideas for Your Courthouse Wedding:

Since your courthouse ceremony is likely to be short and sweet, writing personal vows can be a beautiful way to make the moment more meaningful. Here are some vow ideas:

While the courthouse ceremony itself may be brief and simple, you have the opportunity to make your vows even more meaningful by choosing a private location to exchange them. You don’t have to say your vows in front of guests or even the officiant if you prefer a more intimate setting. Consider exchanging vows at a scenic mountain view, in the comfort of your home, or at a special café or location that holds significance for you as a couple. This private moment will allow you to fully focus on each other and the promises you’re making.

You can even bring along your photographer to document this intimate vow exchange, capturing the raw emotions and personal connection between the two of you in a meaningful way. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small group of close friends, this alternative setting allows for a relaxed and genuine experience, free from any distractions.

After Your Courthouse Wedding: Fun Activities to Celebrate

After your ceremony, you can turn the rest of the day into a celebration that reflects your unique relationship! Here are some ideas for activities to do after you tie the knot:

1. Celebrate with an Intimate Reception: Invite your closest friends and family to a special dinner at a cozy restaurant or your favorite café.
2. Take Beautiful Wedding Photos: Use the beauty of the courthouse or nearby scenic spots for post-wedding photos that capture the romance and joy of the day.
3. Go on a Mini-Moon: After the stress of planning your day, take a short getaway to relax and enjoy your first days as a married couple.
4. Visit a Local Winery or Brewery: Toast to your marriage with a glass of wine or craft beer at a local winery or brewery.
5. Have a Game Night or Movie Marathon: For a more low-key celebration, gather with friends and family for a night of fun games or movies to kick off your married life.
6. Opt for an activity that you love to do together like, hike, bowl, ski etc.

Final Thoughts

Getting married at the courthouse can be a beautiful, meaningful, and stress-free way to say “I do.” With the right preparation, you can create an intimate and unique wedding experience that reflects your personality and style. From selecting the perfect courthouse to choosing vendors that enhance your day and writing heartfelt vows, a courthouse wedding can be as special as any grand celebration.

So, if you’re dreaming of a simple yet unforgettable wedding day, getting married at the courthouse might just be the perfect choice for you.

Contact me now to inquire about photo coverage