Seattle offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, making it an ideal location for couples seeking an intimate and meaningful courthouse wedding. With stunning venues, flexible options, and opportunities for personalized celebrations, a Seattle courthouse wedding can be both memorable and stress-free.

A couple shares a romantic moment on a rooftop terrace with Smith Tower and Seattle cityscape in the background.
A tender wedding moment captured between two newlyweds wearing a tuxedo and white veil in warm sunlight.

The Appeal of Courthouse Weddings

Opting for a courthouse wedding allows couples to focus on their love and commitment without the complexities of traditional wedding planning. Here are some key reasons why a courthouse wedding might be the perfect fit:


  • Simplicity: A streamlined planning process lets you focus on your relationship.
  • Affordability: Lower costs allow you to invest in other priorities like travel, housing, or future celebrations.
  • Intimacy: Smaller guest lists create a more personal and meaningful experience.
  • Flexibility: Courthouse weddings offer more freedom in scheduling and planning.


Seattle Courthouse Wedding Venues


Seattle Municipal Court

Located at 600 5th Avenue, Seattle Municipal Court offers modern spaces and rooftop views. Judges are available for ceremonies at 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. Learn more here.


King County Courthouse

Situated at 516 3rd Avenue, this historic building offers classic architecture for your ceremony. Judges are available before 8:30 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays, with weekend availability by appointment. Learn more here

A couple in wedding attire stand together in an elegant hallway with dramatic shadows and columns.
A couple stands between towering library bookshelves under a geometric glass ceiling in a romantic setting.

Planning Your Seattle Courthouse Wedding

  1. Obtain a Marriage License in Seattle: Apply through the King County Recorder's Office. Details here
  2. Schedule Your Ceremony: Reserve your ceremony date with the courthouse. Submit your request here
  3. Arrange for Witnesses: Washington requires two witnesses aged 18 or older. I am also available to serve as a witness myself to make your day as seamless as possible.
  4. Prepare Fees and Documents: Bring your marriage license, ID, and the required ceremony fee.


Enhancing Your Courthouse Wedding Experience

  • Personalized Wedding Photography in Seattle: Capture every moment with professional photos. View my wedding photography packages
  • Celebrate Afterwards in Seattle: Plan an intimate dinner or gathering to celebrate with loved ones at one of Seattle's many romantic venues.


A romantic wedding couple embraces in a garden setting with delicate white baby's breath flowers.
A black and white wedding photo showing a romantic first look moment between a couple on their special day.
A couple shares a romantic moment on a rooftop deck overlooking the downtown Seattle skyline on an overcast day.

Real Stories: Seattle Wedding Photography Inspiration

  • Emily and Leo: Their intimate Seattle courthouse wedding was a beautiful blend of simplicity and elegance. Their day focused on family and heartfelt moments. Read their story
  • Brianda and Dario: After their ceremony, they explored Pioneer Square and Smith Tower for stunning photos. Read their story
  • Caitlyn and Sourabh: Their courthouse wedding was followed by a waterfront celebration. Read their story
  • Emily and Leo: Their romantic courthouse wedding was highlighted by joyful family moments and elegant details. Read their story


Reviews of Seattle Courthouse Weddings

Couples rave about their Seattle courthouse wedding experiences, praising the blend of convenience and elegance these venues offer. From seamless scheduling to the supportive courthouse staff, many highlight how stress-free the process is. The stunning architecture and central location make for incredible photo opportunities, especially when paired with Seattle’s iconic backdrops like Pioneer Square and the waterfront. Many couples appreciate how easy it is to personalize their day with post-ceremony celebrations at local restaurants or scenic spots.


Hotels Near Seattle Courthouse Venues

For couples and guests traveling to Seattle for a courthouse wedding, there are numerous nearby accommodations:

  • The Arctic Club Hotel: A historic and elegant hotel just steps from the Seattle Municipal Court.
  • Hotel 1000: A luxury option offering exceptional service and comfort.
  • The State Hotel: A boutique hotel near Pike Place Market, perfect for exploring Seattle post-ceremony.
  • Fairmont Olympic Hotel: A timeless and luxurious hotel in downtown Seattle, offering exceptional accommodations and top-tier amenities for a relaxing stay.


Best Places to Celebrate After Your Seattle Courthouse Wedding

  • Canlis: A fine-dining restaurant with breathtaking views and award-winning cuisine.
  • The Pink Door: A cozy Italian restaurant with a romantic atmosphere near Pike Place Market.
  • Westward: A lakeside restaurant offering fresh, locally-sourced dishes and stunning views of Lake Union.
A couple stands beneath the iconic Pike Place Market sign in Seattle with graffiti-covered walls in the background at dusk.
A joyful couple shares a tender moment while holding a white and green wedding bouquet against a gray wall.

Why Choose Me as Your Seattle Wedding Photographer?

As a professional Seattle wedding photographer with extensive experience capturing numerous courthouse weddings in the Seattle area, I specialize in documenting authentic and heartfelt moments for couples throughout Seattle and the greater Washington area. Whether you're planning an intimate courthouse ceremony or a grand celebration, I offer personalized wedding photography services that reflect your unique love story.


Seattle courthouse weddings offer a perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. From iconic photo locations to flexible planning options, couples can craft a day that truly reflects their love.


If you're considering a courthouse wedding or a traditional wedding in Seattle, I'd love to help capture your story. Contact me today to learn more.

Let’s create something beautiful together!