Intimate City Hall Wedding- Things to Know Before Court House Wedding

Asos Dress / Manolo Blahnik / David Yurman Earrings

Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of wearing a beautiful wedding dress on my wedding day, a day filled with all our family and friends. Although Covid made it soit wasn’t going to be the wedding we had envisioned, we still wanted to make a special day out of it. It’s true that, acivil ceremony is smaller in size, but that doesn’t mean it has to be any less important! Alex and I had the opportunity to have something a little more intimate with just family members in attendance. I have to say, there was something very romantic and sweet about having a City Hall wedding.

I had my Carrie Bradshaw moment! I felt beautiful in my loose waves, little white dress, and blue Manolo Blanikheels. I couldn’t wait to say “I do,” to my other half.

If you are planning on saving the big reception for a laterdate and plan on having a civil ceremony now, here is what you need to know:

1. Apply for the Marriage License

Every state has its own set of rules when it comes time to applying for your marriage license. There will be fees, restrictions, and required documentation that you should know about before heading to the courthouse.

To legally get married in Cook County, IL you must go to any one of the six Office of the Clerk to get your marriage license. The fee for the license is $60.

2. Make an Appointment

You must make an appointment for your ceremony time and date at a city or suburban courthouse. Each location has its own hours and limited availability. Make sure to check online for each courthouse’s rules and regulations.Appointments are made for 15-minute time slots.

3. Keep Guests to a Minimum

I know if you decide to go this route it is either out of necessity due to Covid or because you want to keep your wedding small and intimate, but keep in mind that only two people are allowed to join you for the ceremony. This includes your photographer!

4. Be Mindful of the Courthouse Checklist

When getting married at City Hall a judge will perform the ceremony, the entire ceremony is about 5 minutes long, and it’ll only cost you $10. You must wear your mask the ENTIRE time!

All you need to make sure this day goes smoothly is a fabulous wedding outfit, a wedding license, valid IDs, $10 cash, your rings, and a handsome groom.

It’s your special day; make sure to add personal touches. Carry a bouquet, hire a photographer for after the courthouse, or get your hair and makeup done. Most importantly, make sure to soak it all in and make the day your own.