I was honored to be a part of Izabela and Alfredo’s beautiful courthouse wedding. The day was perfect, and it was so special to see these two lovely people commit to each other in marriage. As someone who has had the opportunity to participate in these types of ceremonies on many occasions, I must say that I fall in love with them every time. It was a pleasure to be a part of Izabela and Alfredo’s special day, and I wish them all the love and happiness in the world as they start this new chapter in their lives together.

As someone who has had the experience of participating in courthouse weddings, I wanted to share some tips to help ensure that the day goes smoothly. One essential tip I always recommend is arriving 15-20 minutes before your scheduled time. This allows you to check in with the courthouse staff, confirm that all your documents are in order, and settle before the ceremony begins. Trust me; this is crucial for reducing last-minute stress and allowing you to relax and enjoy the moment.

Other things to keep in mind include making sure you have all of the necessary documents and requirements beforehand, considering what you will wear to the ceremony (some courthouses have dress codes, so it’s a good idea to check with the staff early), personalizing the ceremony to make it meaningful and memorable, and remembering to bring along a witness if required.

As a photographer, I am often asked to capture the special moments of a courthouse wedding. However, it’s important to note that policies can vary from one courthouse to another, and it’s always a good idea to check with the staff about any specific guidelines or restrictions that may be in place. For example, at the Dupage County Courthouse, I have learned that photographers are not allowed to photograph the actual ceremony.

While this means that I cannot photograph the exchange of vows, there are still many opportunities to capture meaningful and memorable photos before and after the ceremony. Some ideas include photographing the marriage certificate, rings, and portraits of the bride and groom. In addition, I suggest taking candid shots of the couple preparing for the ceremony or capturing special moments between them as they celebrate with family and friends afterward.

I hope these tips help anyone planning a courthouse wedding.

I wish you all the best on your special day!