Hitching Up at the Courthouse: Your Guide to a Totally Legit (and Possibly Hilarious) Austin Wedding
So, you and your main squeeze have decided to tie the knot, Austin style. But forget the fancy duds, the three-tiered cake, and your grandma Edna doing the chicken dance (although, that last one could be pretty epic). You're all about a courthouse ceremony, a quick "I do," and hightailing it out of there to celebrate with breakfast tacos. But how does this whole courthouse wedding thing work exactly? Fear not, lovebirds, for this guide is here to break it down for you like a breakfast taco - delicious, informative, and perfect fuel for your upcoming adventure.
Step 1: The Permission Slip (aka Marriage License)
First things first, you need a marriage license. Think of it as your official "go ahead and get hitched" permission slip from the state of Texas. You can snag this beauty at the Travis County Clerk's Office (5501 Airport Blvd., Austin, TX 78751) - weekdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Important tidbit: Bring your IDs, Social Security numbers (don't worry, you don't need the actual card), and cash (around $81). Cash? Yep, because apparently, Cupid doesn't take credit cards (yet).
Pro Tip: Don't be like that couple who showed up on their wedding day only to realize they forgot the license. Apply for it beforehand and avoid any last-minute courthouse sprints.
Step 2: Securing the Hitchin' Hour (Scheduling your Ceremony)
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
Now, for the main event! You can actually schedule your courthouse ceremony with a judge. Yep, a judge in a robe will be your official witness to wedded bliss. Travis County offers two options:
- Judge Mary Katherine Williams: She presides over ceremonies Monday through Friday during business hours and some weekends. Bonus: she's willing to venture off-site for a more scenic "I do" moment (at an extra cost, of course).
- Judge Elisabeth "Liz" Holmes: Known for her welcoming demeanor, Judge Holmes conducts ceremonies in the courtroom and even offers to update your pronouns and titles if needed (how cool is that?).
Call the respective courts to schedule your appointment. Walk-ins are welcome, but securing a slot beforehand is always the safer bet, especially if you have your heart set on a specific date and time.
Step 3: The Big Day (Attire Optional, Tears Encouraged)
The moment you've been waiting for! Dress up in your finest courthouse finery (think khakis and a nice blouse, or that comfy sweater you love). Remember, there's no dress code, so unleash your inner courthouse chic. The ceremony itself is usually short and sweet, but feel free to bring a few tissues for those happy tears (or maybe for the slightly stuffy air conditioning).
Reminder: Save this article to read offline later.
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| How To Get Married At The Courthouse In Austin Tx |
Bonus Round: Because Why Not?
- Bring witnesses (optional): While not required, having a couple of close friends or family members there to celebrate can add a nice touch. Just be sure they don't heckle the judge (unless it's in good fun, of course).
- Photography: Feel free to capture this momentous occasion with some photos (just be sure to check the courthouse's guidelines).
- Celebrate afterwards: This is your special day! Head out for some celebratory breakfast tacos or margaritas (depending on the time of day, of course).
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FAQ: Courthouse Wedding Edition
Tip: Reading twice doubles clarity.
How to get a marriage license in Travis County?
Head to the Travis County Clerk's Office with your ID, Social Security number, and cash (around $81).
How long does it take to get a marriage license?
You can get it on the spot, but the ceremony itself can't happen for at least 72 hours after you obtain the license.
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
Can I schedule a courthouse wedding in advance?
Yes! Call the respective judge's court to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome too, but scheduling ensures your spot.
Do I need witnesses for a courthouse wedding?
No, witnesses are not required, but they're always welcome to join your special day.
Is there a dress code for a courthouse wedding?
Nope! There's no formal dress code. Just wear something comfortable and appropriate for the setting.
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