Hitching Up at the Big P.H.: Your Guide to a City Hall Wedding in Philly
So you and your lobster (that's soulmate in millennial speak) have decided to tie the knot, and let's face it, why spend a fortune on a fancy venue when you can get hitched in the heart of historic Philadelphia? Yes, you heard that right, the magnificent City Hall is your one-stop shop for a quick, quirky, and surprisingly affordable wedding ceremony.
But hold on there, Romeo and Juliet, before you two get all swept up in a whirlwind romance under the marble eagles (they're pretty impressive), there are a few things you need to know.
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| How To Get Married At Philadelphia City Hall |
Let's Get Legal: The Marriage License Lowdown
First things first, you can't just waltz into City Hall and say "I do" without the proper paperwork. You'll need to obtain a marriage license, which is basically like a permission slip from the love gods themselves (or at least the Pennsylvania Department of State). Here's the skinny:
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- Mission: Apply Together - Grab your soon-to-be-spouse and head to Room 413 (don't worry, it's not as mysterious as it sounds).
- Bring the Goods - Pack your IDs (two forms with photo required) and your social security numbers (or documents that prove you have them). Don't forget the cash! It's $90 to make it official (cheaper than a fancy dinner, that's for sure).
- Walk-in Wednesdays or Appointment Adventures? You can brave the walk-in line Monday through Friday, or schedule an appointment if you're feeling particularly organized (or have a translator in tow).
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for those potential wait times. Unless you're planning on reenacting a scene from "Runaway Bride," high heels might not be the best call.
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The Ceremony: Saying "I Do" with a Touch of Grandeur
Once you've got your license in hand, it's time to schedule the actual ceremony. Here's where things get interesting:
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- Calling All Lovebirds: After you have your license, ring up the Marriage License Department (yes, with a real phone!) at (215) 686-2233 to schedule your big moment. Be prepared to share your love story with the calendar lady (just kidding, but maybe practice your "we met on a dating app" speech beforehand).
- The Big Day (or Afternoon): Ceremonies are typically held weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. Express yourself! You can bring up to six guests to witness your vows (although wrangling your entire family into City Hall at lunchtime might be a feat).
- The Short and Sweet of It: City Hall ceremonies are short and to the point, usually lasting around 15 minutes. Think of it as the Cliff's Notes version of a traditional wedding – all the love, none of the awkward silences during the chicken dance.
Fun Fact: If you're lucky, your ceremony might even take place in the stunning Ceremonial Room, which boasts stained-glass windows and enough marble to make Michelangelo weep.
FAQ: Your Burning City Hall Wedding Questions Answered
- How much does it cost to get married at City Hall? The marriage license is $90, and the ceremony itself is free. So you can spend your savings on that honeymoon to the Poconos (or wherever your heart desires).
- Do I need an officiant? Nope! A certified City Hall staff member will perform the ceremony.
- Can I wear jeans? While there's no strict dress code, it probably wouldn't hurt to dress for the occasion (think courthouse chic, not yoga pants).
- What about photos? You can take photos after the ceremony, but professional photography isn't allowed inside City Hall.
- Can I have a reception afterwards? Absolutely! The city is your oyster (or cheesesteak, as the case may be). There are tons of restaurants and venues within walking distance of City Hall for your post-wedding celebration.
So there you have it, lovebirds! Getting married at Philadelphia City Hall is a fun, fast, and affordable way to start your forever together. Just remember, the most important thing is the love you share, not the size of the venue. Now go forth and conquer wedded bliss!
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