A Courthouse Wedding in Alabama

Thinking About a Courthouse Wedding in Alabama? Here’s What You Need to Know (and Where to Go Instead!)

If you’re searching for an intimate and simple wedding option, you may have considered a courthouse wedding in Alabama. While many couples love the idea of a quick, no-fuss ceremony, Alabama courthouses actually no longer perform wedding ceremonies. But don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to have a meaningful and affordable ceremony in Alabama, with even more flexibility to make it uniquely yours.

Why Do So Many People Look for a Courthouse Wedding in Alabama?

Courthouse weddings have long been a go-to option for couples who want an affordable, low-key way to say “I do.” In Alabama, this trend is no different! Many people are drawn to the simplicity and affordability of a courthouse setting, without the need for extensive planning or an elaborate guest list. For those seeking a more intimate approach to their wedding, it’s a choice that makes a lot of sense—except, unfortunately, in Alabama, where courthouses no longer perform ceremonies.

The Facts: Courthouse Weddings Aren’t Performed in Alabama

While many people still search for “courthouse wedding Alabama,” it’s important to note that Alabama probate offices have stopped performing wedding ceremonies. Alabama law now only requires couples to file a completed marriage certificate form, which means you won’t actually say your vows at the courthouse. But this change opens up an exciting opportunity to consider some beautiful, intimate alternatives.

What Are the Alternatives to a Courthouse Wedding in Alabama?

Even without courthouse ceremonies, there are plenty of ways to achieve a simple, beautiful wedding in Alabama. Here are some options that offer the same simplicity and budget-friendliness but with added flexibility to choose a setting that feels just right.

1. Get Married at a Local Park or Scenic Overlook

Alabama has some breathtaking parks that make stunning locations for a small, intimate wedding. For example:

Cheaha State Park – As Alabama’s highest point, this park provides incredible mountain views, especially at Bald Rock Lodge. Check out this wedding at Mount Cheaha!

Oak Mountain State Park – Near Birmingham, this park offers lakeside spots and wooded trails perfect for a peaceful, natural ceremony.

Gulf Shores Beaches – If a coastal backdrop sounds ideal, Alabama’s Gulf Shores and Orange Beach provide romantic beach settings.

Not only are these locations beautiful, but many parks have affordable fees or permits, keeping costs low while providing gorgeous photo opportunities. If you want to see more state park ideas in Alabama, check it out here.

2. Consider a Small Venue with Historic Charm

• Alabama has several small historic venues that work well for an intimate wedding. These spots often have architectural beauty similar to a courthouse, with added character and privacy:
  • Jule Collins Smith Museum – This charming spot in Auburn has beautiful outdoor spaces and is perfect for a small ceremony.
  • Historic homes or churches – Many small venues, like the Weeden House Museum in Huntsville, offer historic charm at an affordable rate.
  These venues give you the courthouse vibe but with added elegance and the opportunity to invite a few loved ones to witness your special moment.

3. Opt for a Private Property or Airbnb

• Renting a cozy cabin, charming garden, or lakeside property can offer a similar intimacy to a courthouse wedding. Many Alabama properties on Airbnb or other rental sites offer scenic spots for small ceremonies.
• This option gives you a lot of flexibility: choose a home with views you love, a spacious backyard, or even a modern loft if you prefer something more contemporary. You’ll have privacy, and it’s perfect for hosting a few guests or just yourselves.

How to Legally Complete Your Marriage in Alabama

Since courthouses in Alabama no longer officiate weddings, couples now complete a marriage certificate form to legally marry in the state. Here’s how it works:

1. Complete a Marriage Certificate Form: This form can be downloaded from the Alabama Department of Public Health or picked up from a probate office. *CLICK HERE*
2. Get It Notarized: Once both parties have completed and signed the form, it must be notarized. (I can notarize that for you!)
3. Submit the Form: Finally, submit the completed form to an Alabama probate office (either in person or by mail) within 30 days.

This process is simple, and once the form is filed, you’ll be legally married without the need for an official ceremony—though, of course, many couples still choose to celebrate their commitment in a meaningful way.

Capturing Your Intimate Alabama Wedding Through Photography

Even if you’re planning a small ceremony, don’t underestimate the power of great photos to capture the moment! Working with a photographer means you can preserve every laugh, smile, and tear, and the simplicity of an intimate wedding allows us to focus on these heartfelt details. Here are some ways to make the most of your wedding photos:

1. Plan a First Look: If you’re getting married in a scenic location, a first look adds a special moment and gives you beautiful portraits before the ceremony.
2. Use the Landscape: Alabama’s natural beauty provides incredible backdrops. A skilled photographer can use natural light and scenery to create timeless images that rival traditional wedding photos.
3. Capture Candid Moments: Intimate ceremonies let us focus on those small but powerful moments—the look on your faces as you exchange vows, a laugh you share right after, or even the details of your dress blowing in the wind.

Want to talk about how we can document your story from start to finish? I am all ears …and eyes.

Final Thoughts on Your “Courthouse Wedding” in Alabama

While you won’t find courthouse weddings in Alabama anymore, the state has no shortage of beautiful and affordable alternatives. From state parks and cozy Airbnbs to historic venues, you can still have a wedding that’s simple, stress-free, and memorable. Just choose the location that feels right for you, and embrace the intimacy and charm of a small Alabama wedding.

A courthouse might not be an option, but with a little creativity, you’ll have a wedding day that’s uniquely yours, captured beautifully, and filled with meaning.