Tie the Knot, Chicago Style: A Courthouse Wedding Guide
So, you’re ready to ditch the fairytale wedding and opt for something a bit more... concrete. Good for you! You’ve chosen the path of the practical, the efficient, and the slightly less Pinterest-worthy. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of courthouse weddings, specifically in the Windy City.
Why a Courthouse Wedding?
You might be wondering, "Why on earth would I want to get married in a courthouse?" Well, dear reader, let me enlighten you. For starters, it's cheap. Like, really cheap. No need to break the bank on a venue, catering, or that ridiculous floral arrangement that looks like it belongs in a rainforest. Secondly, it's quick and easy. No months of planning, no stress, no drama. Just show up, say "I do," and boom, you're married. And finally, it's unique. Not everyone can say they had a courthouse wedding. You'll be the envy of all your friends who spent a fortune on their nuptials.
The Nitty Gritty
Okay, let’s get down to business. First things first, you need a marriage license. This is your golden ticket to wedded bliss. You can get one at the Cook County Clerk's office. Remember, there’s usually a one-day waiting period, so don’t be too spontaneous.
Next, you need to choose a courthouse. Chicago has a few options, but the most popular is the Bridgeview Courthouse. It's got that classic, "we're here to dispense justice, and sometimes marriage licenses" vibe.
Finally, you need to schedule your ceremony. This is usually done by calling the courthouse directly. Be prepared to answer some questions about your identification and your marriage license.
The Big Day (Or Not So Big Day)
Now comes the fun part: the actual wedding. Dress code? Casual. Decorations? Nonexistent. Witnesses? Usually required, so bring a friend or family member. The ceremony itself is short and sweet. You'll exchange vows, say "I do," and then you're officially hitched. No kissing under a floral arch, no throwing rice, just a simple, legal union.
After the I Dos
Once you've said your vows, it's time to celebrate! You could go for a fancy dinner, but let's be real, you probably just want to grab a burger and fries. Or maybe you want to hit up a bar and celebrate with your favorite people. Whatever you do, remember, the most important thing is that you're now married to the love of your life. And you saved a ton of money.
How To...
- How to save money on a wedding: Choose a courthouse wedding!
- How to avoid wedding stress: Opt for a courthouse ceremony.
- How to be unique: Have a courthouse wedding.
- How to get married quickly: Choose a courthouse.
- How to impress your friends with your practicality: Tell them about your courthouse wedding.