How To Plan A City Hall Wedding: Your Complete Guide

Ready to get hitched at City Hall?

It might be less elaborate than a traditional wedding, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be just as special.

City Hall weddings are chic and surprisingly personal. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to plan your perfect City Hall wedding.

image of the wedding ceremony - the council house

Understand the Legal Requirements

First things first: check your local regulations. Each city may have different requirements for marriage licenses. Here’s what you typically need:

Both partners need to be present to apply for the license.
Bring valid identification, like a driver’s license or passport.
Know the waiting period, if there’s one, between the application and when the ceremony can take place.
Check the fee and acceptable payment methods, as some places do not accept credit cards.
If divorced, you might need to provide a divorce decree.

Visit your City Hall’s website for specific details or give them a call to avoid any hiccups.

Schedule Your Ceremony

Once you have your marriage license, it’s time to book your ceremony. Popular cities might have long waiting lists, so the earlier you schedule, the better.

Consider these factors:

Choose a date and time. Mid-week might have less traffic and more availability.
Look into what locations are available within City Hall itself. Some have beautiful chambers that are worth the wait.

If you have a specific date in mind and it’s booked, consider off-peak times or even another local City Hall as an alternative.

Decide on Your Guest List

City Hall weddings are usually more intimate, which is part of their charm. Most City Hall venues limit the number of guests, so decide who the essential people are early on.

Think about:

Immediate family members and closest friends.
Consider whether you want your guest list to include a photographer.
Some friends or family might understand if you host a small City Hall ceremony and later a larger celebration.

Inform guests well in advance so they can plan accordingly, especially if they’re traveling from afar.

Plan the Ceremony Details

A City Hall wedding is simple by design, but that simplicity gives you room to customise the experience in ways that feel intentional. A little planning goes a long way in making the ceremony feel personal without adding stress.

Personalise Your Vows

Most City Hall ceremonies are brief and follow a standard script, so your vows are often the only part that feels uniquely yours. Keep them short but specific. Mention a moment that defines your relationship or a promise that matters to you both. Have a printed copy or keep them on your phone so you’re not relying on memory. If your City Hall allows it, ask the officiant when in the ceremony you’ll read them so you’re prepared.

Dress the Part

City Hall weddings attract every style of couple, which gives you complete freedom. Think about the space and how you want to look in your photos. A streamlined dress or tailored suit works well in civic buildings with strong architecture. If you choose something unconventional, make sure it’s comfortable for waiting rooms, walking between locations, and outdoor steps. Bring a second pair of shoes if you’ll be taking photos around the city.

Flowers and Accessories

Because the ceremony is short, small details stand out more. A bouquet, boutonniere, hair accessory, or simple lapel pin can elevate your look and tie everything together visually. Opt for flowers that last well out of water since you may be waiting before your slot. If flowers aren’t your style, consider alternatives like dried blooms, a statement clutch, or a textured jacket.

Hire a Photographer

A professional photographer can turn a ten-minute ceremony into a full story. Ask if they’ve shot at your City Hall before, as experience helps with lighting, angles, and navigating waiting areas. Plan for portraits outside the building or in a nearby neighbourhood. Give your photographer a loose shot list such as signing the licence, a wide shot of the hall, and candid moments before and after the ceremony.

Celebrate After the Ceremony

A City Hall wedding doesn’t limit how you celebrate. You can keep it intimate, stretch the day out with city photos, or plan something bigger later.

Plan a Reception

Decide what kind of atmosphere you want. A favourite restaurant works well for small groups and removes all hosting pressure. For something more personal, a private dining room or a low-key gathering at home can feel relaxed and meaningful. If you do book a restaurant, notify them in advance that it’s for a wedding so they can help with timing, seating, and photos.

Weekend Getaway

If you’re not doing a full honeymoon yet, choose a short trip that feels like a reset. Prioritise somewhere easy to reach so you don’t lose half the weekend travelling. Look for boutique hotels, countryside escapes, or a city you’ve always wanted to explore together. Treat it as a mini-moon where the focus is connection rather than a packed itinerary.

Host a Celebration Party Later

A delayed celebration lets you enjoy your City Hall wedding without pressure and still gather a larger group when you’re ready. It can be as formal or informal as you want. You can host a dinner, book a bar, hire a private room, or plan a relaxed garden party. Because the legal ceremony is done, the celebration becomes purely about fun rather than logistics.

Tips for a Smooth City Hall Wedding Day

Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Have a checklist of everything you need to bring, like IDs and your marriage license.
Double-check logistics like parking and accessibility for guests who might need it.
Prepare for weather if you plan outdoor photos or celebrations.

City Hall weddings offer a beautiful blend of simplicity and romance. With thoughtful planning, you can make your day uniquely yours while enjoying the simplicity of the experience. Embrace these steps and tips to ensure a smooth, memorable day that fits your personal style perfectly.