The Courthouse Wedding Guide: Small, Legal, Real

Apply in person at the county clerk's office in the county where you will marry (not necessarily where you live). Bring government photo ID for both partners, the fee ($25-$120 depending on the state), and any additional documents your state requires (birth certificate, proof of prior divorce or annulment).

Most states have a 24-72 hour waiting period between issuing the license and using it. Most licenses expire 30-90 days after issuance. Confirm both windows before you book the ceremony date.

Book a civil ceremony slot at the same courthouse or a designated wedding office. Slots are usually 10-15 minutes.

You need one or two witnesses (varies by state), each at least 18 with photo ID. The court can sometimes provide a witness for a small fee.

The judge or clerk reads a short civil script. You can request adjustments to pronouns and language; most officiants are happy to accommodate.

Anything you want. Traditional dress or suit if that feels right; a colored dress, jumpsuit, or clean pair of jeans if that feels more like you.

The one recommendation: dress in something you would happily wear to dinner afterward, because the ceremony is short and the rest of the day is yours.

Reserve a nice dinner for that night. Two people, four people, or twenty — whatever fits.

Have a friend take photos on the courthouse steps. This is the shot everyone remembers.

Send an announcement afterward with the photos. Guests get to celebrate you without a two-year runway.