Hitching Up at the Hall: A Guide to Courthouse Weddings in Philly
So you and your lobster (or cheesesteak, if you're more of a Philly local) have decided to tie the knot, but fancy forgoing the fairytale frills and heading straight to "I do" at the courthouse. Hold onto your fascinators (or whatever quirky headwear you choose), because this guide will whisk you through the process of getting courthouse-married in the City of Brotherly Love.
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| How Do I Get Married At The Courthouse In Philadelphia |
Love Takes Manhattan... I Mean, Philadelphia: Step 1 - The License to Snuggle
First things first, you'll need a marriage license. Think of it as your official permission to level up from Netflix and takeout nights to legally-bound domestic bliss. Head over to Room 413 (yes, there's a specific room for lovebirds) at Philadelphia City Hall. Just remember, cash is a no-go, so bring your credit card, money order, or certified check (because ain't nobody got time for relationship drama and bounced checks). There's a $90 fee, but hey, think of it as an investment in a lifetime of togetherness (or at least a killer post-wedding cheesesteak celebration). Important Note: You'll both need to be there in person, along with valid ID and Social Security cards. Don't worry, it's not like you're applying for the CIA (although dodging Aunt Mildred's casserole at Thanksgiving might feel that way sometimes).
Bonus Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. This isn't a sprint to the altar, but there might be a bit of a wait.
Ceremony Central: Booking Your Big Day (Well, Big Hour)
Congratulations, you've got your license to snuggle! Now, it's time to schedule the actual ceremony. Here's the catch: Philadelphia City Hall only allows courthouse weddings on Tuesdays and Thursdays (excluding holidays, those pesky things). And forget about a Saturday afternoon soiree. These ceremonies are quick and sweet, so be prepared to say "I do" in a limited time slot. To snag your spot, call the Marriage License Department after you have your license. It's a bit like booking a hot restaurant reservation – you gotta be on your game!
Tip: Context builds as you keep reading.
Pro Tip: If you have your heart set on a specific date, consider arriving at City Hall early on the designated booking day (usually Tuesdays).
The Big Day (The Courthouse Edition): What to Expect
The d�cor might not be Pinterest-worthy, but hey, the love is real! Here's a rundown of what to expect on your courthouse wedding day:
- Dress Code: It's a courthouse, so ditch the ballgown and tuxedo (unless that's your thing, no judgement here). Think smart casual or semi-formal.
- Officiant: A Justice of the Peace will officiate the ceremony. They're basically the rockstars of courthouse weddings, making things official with a sprinkle of legal mumbo jumbo.
- Witnesses: Don't forget your two trusty witnesses! They can be your best buds, your parents, or even those random people you met in line (just make sure they're not wanted criminals).
- The Ceremony: It'll be short and sweet, but that doesn't mean it can't be meaningful. Prepare some vows (or wing it Shakespeare-style, we won't judge) and get ready to seal the deal with a kiss.
Remember: This is your wedding day, so personalize it however you see fit!
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
Happily Ever After (The Legal Stuff)
Once you've said "I do," don't forget to file the paperwork with the Register of Wills within 60 days of your ceremony. This is what makes it official in the eyes of the law (and your nosey grandma).
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And that's it, folks! You're now a married couple, ready to embark on a lifetime of adventures (and probably some epic in-law dramas, but that's a story for another time).
FAQ: Your Courthouse Wedding Questions Answered
How much does it cost to get married at the courthouse in Philadelphia?
Tip: Share one insight from this post with a friend.
The marriage license costs $90, and the ceremony itself is free.
Do I need an appointment to get a marriage license in Philadelphia?
No, walk-ins are welcome, but be prepared to wait.
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
Can I get married on the weekend at the Philadelphia courthouse?
Unfortunately, no. Ceremonies are only performed on Tuesdays and Thursdays
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