You’ve just started planning your wedding, and suddenly, you’re overwhelmed. You feel pressured to plan a big, fancy party, but deep down, that doesn’t quite feel like you. If that sounds familiar, remember: there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to weddings. The days of cookie-cutter celebrations are gone, and now more than ever, couples are encouraged to plan a wedding to celebrate their love in an authentic way. 


So, if a small, intimate courthouse ceremony is calling your name, do it! And if you’re wondering, “Will it actually be worth it?” or “How do I make a city hall wedding meaningful?” The short answer: yes, it’s absolutely worth it. And if you’re not convinced, I’ve got you covered. Here are all the reasons why a city hall wedding can be just as special, along with tips on how to make it uniquely yours.

Why More Couples Are Choosing City Hall Weddings

There are so many reasons why couples are saying “yes” to city hall weddings instead of going the more traditional route. Sure, saving money is a huge benefit, but it’s definitely not the only reason. 


City Hall weddings offer an intimate, low-stress alternative to larger, more formal celebrations. For some, it’s all about ditching the harsh expectations and just focusing on what really matters—your love. It’s a chance to forget what you think you’re supposed to do and plan a day that feels true to you. A day full of everything (and everyone!) you want. 


Whether it’s just the two of you running off to elope or a small group of your closest loved ones by your side, a city hall wedding allows you to keep things simple and meaningful.

The Pros and Cons of a City Hall Wedding

Not everyone dreams of a large, extravagant wedding, and that’s totally okay. Just like a City Hall ceremony isn’t for everyone either. Both options have their own pros and cons, and it ultimately comes down to what feels right for you. To help you weigh out all of your options, here’s a breakdown of all the pros and cons to consider before making your decision.


Pros:

There are many pros for choosing a City Hall wedding. It’s especially the case for those who envision a laid-back celebration surrounded by only a select few. Some of the benefits of choosing this style of celebration are that: 

  • It’s affordable, with the only cost being your marriage certificate, wedding attire, and any other optional items you choose to include, such as a bouquet or boutonniere. 
  • It’s quick and simple—no need to spend months stressing over all the little details. 
  • It’s intimate and meaningful.
  • It’s ideal for those who want an elopement-like ceremony but want to celebrate with their loved ones after. 
  • They’re often located in stunning historic buildings in the city center (hello, stunning wedding photos!) 

Cons:

While the pros might already have you leaning toward a City Hall wedding, it’s just as important to take into consideration the cons. For some couples, these might be the deal-breakers, including: 

  • Having a limited guest list.
  • The scheduling constraints, from days to times, that come with booking a City Hall wedding. 
  • You’re not able to customize your wedding ceremony script and sometimes aren’t able to read hand-written wedding vows.


How to Make the Most of Your City Hall Wedding Photography

No matter where you’re getting married or how many people you’re inviting, my biggest piece of advice is this: trust your gut. Every step of the way, make sure you’re planning a celebration that actually feels like you. And if that celebration happens to be a City Hall wedding, there are still so many ways to make it special.


First, write out a timeline. Yep, even if the whole thing is just a few hours long. Work with your photographer to create a flow of the day so no sweet moments or photo opportunities get missed.


Next, think about getting ready together or doing a first look. Just because you’re keeping things simple doesn’t mean you have to skip all the traditional wedding moments. A first look before heading to the courthouse can be just as meaningful (and photo-worthy!).


Lastly, don’t forget the personal touches. Whether it’s a bouquet, bold fashion choices, or renting a cool getaway car, those little details can make the day feel totally you. At the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.

Should You Hire a Photographer for a City Hall Wedding?

As a wedding photographer, I might be a little biased, but my answer is 100% YES. You should absolutely hire a photographer for your City Hall wedding. Whether you’re saying “I do” with five guests or five hundred, it’s still your wedding day. These are moments you’ll want to revisit time and time again, making it well worth investing in a photographer for. And just because you’re getting married at City Hall doesn’t mean you can’t go all out with photos.

What a Photographer Can Capture at a City Hall Wedding

There are zero rules when it comes to planning your dream wedding. Just because you’re getting married at City Hall doesn’t mean you can’t go all out with photos. And I’m not just talking about the exact moments you say, “I do.” Why not have your photographer capture your full day from start to finish?


You can have your photographer capture: 

  • Getting ready (yes, even if it’s low-key!)
  • Entering the City Hall 
  • Sweet ceremony moment 
  • Grand City Hall exit 
  • Family, bridesmaids, and groomsmen photos (if including them) 
  • Stunning just-married couple portraits 

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

A city hall wedding is a special option for those who want something low-key yet packed with personality. What else is worth it? Hiring a photographer. This is such a special moment in your life. Investing in a photographer to capture your big day is a must-do. 


If you’re planning a city hall wedding and want it beautifully documented? Let's chat. I’d love to help you pull off and capture the perfect City Hall wedding day. 


A City Hall wedding is the perfect choice for couples envisioning something laid-back but still full of personality. So, yes. You know what else is totally worth it? Hiring a photographer. This is such a special moment in your life, and it deserves to be captured beautifully. When you book a session with me, it’s all about having fun and capturing those natural, documentary-style moments with a touch of editorial elegance—regardless of where you say “I do.” 


So, if you’re planning a City Hall wedding and want photos that reflect just how special the day truly is, let's chat. I’d love to help you bring your vision to life and document every unforgettable moment.