Hey there, lovebirds! If you’re looking to tie the knot without the hassle of a big wedding, a courthouse wedding in California might be just what you need. It’s quick, simple, and you can get married the same day. Let’s walk through the process together.

Understanding Courthouse Weddings in California

A courthouse wedding is a civil ceremony performed by a judge or court official. It’s a straightforward way to get married without the frills of a traditional wedding. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can be arranged on short notice.

Obtaining a Marriage License in California

Before you can say “I do,” you’ll need a marriage license. In California, both parties must appear in person at the county clerk’s office with valid government-issued photo IDs. There’s no waiting period, so you can get married the same day you obtain your license. For more details, check out our How It Works page.

Scheduling Your Courthouse Wedding

Once you have your marriage license, you’ll need to schedule your ceremony. Some courthouses allow walk-in ceremonies, while others require appointments. It’s best to call ahead to confirm availability and any specific requirements.

What to Expect During the Ceremony

The ceremony itself is brief, typically lasting about 10-15 minutes. You’ll exchange vows and rings (if you choose), and the officiant will pronounce you married. Some courthouses allow a limited number of guests, so check the specific rules of your chosen location.

After the Ceremony: Obtaining Your Marriage Certificate

After the ceremony, the officiant will file your marriage license with the county. You can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate, which serves as legal proof of your marriage. Processing times vary by county, so inquire about the timeline when you apply for your license.

Benefits of a Courthouse Wedding

• Cost-Effective: Courthouse weddings are significantly less expensive than traditional weddings.
• Time-Saving: The process is quick, often completed in a single day.
• Low Stress: With minimal planning required, you can focus on what truly matters—your commitment to each other.

FAQs

Do we need to be California residents to get married here?
No, California does not have a residency requirement for marriage. Couples from out of state or even other countries can legally marry in California. For more information, visit our FAQ’s page.

Do we need witnesses for a courthouse wedding?
If you obtain a public marriage license, at least one witness is required during the ceremony. However, if you opt for a confidential marriage license, no witnesses are needed. Learn more about the differences on our How It Works page.

How soon can we get married after obtaining the marriage license?
There’s no waiting period in California. You can get married immediately after obtaining your marriage license.

Can we personalize our courthouse wedding ceremony?
While courthouse ceremonies are typically standard, some officiants may allow minor personal touches. It’s best to discuss this with the court staff when scheduling your ceremony.

How do we obtain our marriage certificate after the wedding?
After the ceremony, the officiant will file your marriage license with the county. You can then request a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county clerk’s office. Processing times vary, so inquire about the timeline when you apply for your license.

Ready to make it official? At Married Today CA, we specialize in same-day marriage services, handling everything from the license to the ceremony. Contact us today to schedule your courthouse wedding and start your happily ever after. Visit our Contact Us page to get started.