Welcome to the Fort Worth Courthouse Wedding Guide! I’m ear-to-ear that you’re here. Before you hop into this short, answer-packed guide, you need to hear it from me:
– Courthouse weddings are smaller, more intimate, and more budget-friendly than a big bash, yes…
– But there’s a misconception that you have to scale back to the bare minimum when going this route.
– I’m not of that belief and in this guide, I invite you to entertain the idea that maybe you can make a big deal about your small wedding.
Looking for a photographer for your ceremony?
Email: hello@morganarcher.com
Text/Call: (713) 822-3902
Table of Contents
Fort Worth Courthouse Wedding Photo Gallery
The Courthouse Wedding Checklist
Courthouse Wedding Photography Packages
Fort Worth Courthouse Wedding Photo Gallery
The Fort Worth Courthouse Wedding Checklist
The most important part of this Fort Worth Courthouse Wedding Guide is this checklist. Get your screenshot fingers ready because you’ll want to make note of these!
1. Get Your Marriage License
Grab your lover and go in person (or online) to get your marriage license. This license is valid for 90 days so plan your ceremony date accordingly.
Visit the Tarrant County Courthouse’s wedding page to apply for a license.
2. Schedule an appointment
When getting married at the Tarrant County Courthouse, you’ll need to set an appointment for your marriage ceremony. They only take appointments M-F, 8am-4:30p. Take a look at your calendar, check in with your photographer, and pick your favorite date!
Call the Tarrant County Courthouse to set your date. (817) 884-1111
Don’t forget, you’ll need to bring $100 (cash only) for your ceremony on the day of
3. Book photo, makeup, and flowers
I’m a photographer who lives just 20 minutes from the Tarrant County Courthouse and I help couples step out of the box when it comes to courthouse weddings.
I also have a florist and makeup artist on deck that you’re more than welcome to use, but of course if you have your eyes on someone specific, I support it!
Looking for a photographer for your courthouse wedding?
I’ve photographed many courthouse weddings and would love to be a part of yours. Inquire using the form below (even if it’s last minute!)
Courthouse Photography Packages
Package 1
If you’re thinking, “I really just want something small and simple,” this package is for you!
It includes
– 45 Minutes of Couple’s Portraits
– Courthouse Ceremony
– Family Photos
– ~150 Photos
Time: ~1.5 hours
$850
Package 2
If you’re planning something fun after saying “I do”, this one’s for you.
It includes…
-45 Minutes of Couple’s Portraits
-Courthouse Ceremony
-Family Photos
– Portraits at at 2nd location for 1.5hrs
– ~275 Photos
Time: ~3 hours
$1400
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get married at the Fort Worth courthouse?
You can! Judge Swearingin (yes, that’s his real name!) performs marriage ceremonies every day at the Tarrant County Courthouse.
As a historical landmark in Fort Worth, it’s also the most beautiful courthouse in DFW.
Do I need to have a marriage license?
Yes! You’ll both need to appear in person (or schedule an online appointment) to apply for your marriage license.
After it’s issued to you, you’ll schedule your wedding ceremony within the next 4-89 days.
**You do NOT need a license to schedule your ceremony appointment date.
Do I have to set an appointment?
Yes – the courthouse holds marriage ceremonies during the week (M-F, 8:30am-4pm). Once you have your license, you can call to schedule your ceremony!
On the day of, you’ll check in 30 minutes before your scheduled ceremony time.
Is family allowed to be there?
You’re allowed up to 14 guests at the Tarrant County Courthouse.
Do I need to pick a “witness?”
You do NOT need to bring a witness to your courthouse ceremony at Tarrant County Courthouse.
So if you want it just you two, that’s perfect!
Can I have a photographer?
Yes, yes, and yes. The Tarrant County Courthouse and Judge Swearingin are very photographer-friendly.
They know how special these moments are and have always been so hospitable to me when I’m “getting the shot.”
Is there a specific place to park?
There is metered parking all around the courthouse for $2/hr. Even though the process is normally 1-1.5hrs (with photos and everything), I always set my parking for 2 hours in case the ceremony wait time is unexpectedly longer.
What all do I need with me?
On the day of your appointment, bring your:
☑️ Marriage License
☑️ ID
☑️ $100 CASH (No card!)
See another Fort Worth Courthouse Wedding Gallery