Alexa, play Chapel of Love..

There’s just something about courthouse weddings—the intimacy, the simplicity, the way it’s all about the two of you and nothing else. I can’t get enough. And if we’re talking about courthouse ceremonies, Tarrant County’s is hands-down one of my favorites to photograph. Timeless, charming, and full of those just-married butterflies.

Why Tarrant County Courthouse?

Let’s talk about why this place is a gem. Sitting at 100 W Weatherford St, Fort Worth, TX 76196, this historic courthouse brings all the charm—think grand architecture, gorgeous natural light, and a timeless backdrop for your “just married” moments. But beyond the picture-perfect setting, it’s a place where your ceremony can be simple, stress-free, and still packed with meaning.

And if you’re wondering who’ll be officiating your ceremony, Judge Swearingen is your guy. He has a way of making ceremonies feel personal, relaxed, and meaningful without feeling rushed.

Step 1: Get That Marriage License!

Before you can waltz into the courthouse and make it official, you’ll need a marriage license. Here’s the scoop:

Head to the Tarrant County Clerk’s Office (downtown Fort Worth is your best bet!).
Both of you need to be there in person with valid IDs.
The fee is $75 (cash, card, or money order).
There’s a 72-hour waiting period, so no spontaneous "let’s get married today" moments unless you get a waiver (active military and some other exceptions apply).
License is good for 90 days, so you have some wiggle room!

More details: Tarrant County Marriage License Info

Step 2: Plan Your Courthouse Ceremony

Now for the fun part—the actual ceremony! Here’s what to know:

Ceremonies are performed by appointment from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
You’re allowed up to 14 guests to celebrate with you.
The fee is $100 cash

More details: Tarrant County Courthouse Weddings

Step 3: What to Expect – Capturing Your Courthouse Ceremony

I’m at the courthouse so often—sometimes two or three times a week—that I know it like the back of my hand. Typically, my coverage begins at the start of the ceremony. Here’s what to expect:

Checking In: We’ll meet on the 4th floor, where I’ll capture candid moments of you checking in.
The Ceremony: The heart of it all! I’ll document every heartfelt glance, smile, and exchange of vows.
Family & Friends: Afterward, I photograph you with your loved ones to ensure these memories last a lifetime.
Couples Portraits: My favorite part! With Downtown Fort Worth as our playground, the options for stunning photos are endless.

Step 4: Making It Special

Courthouse weddings are known for being intimate, budget-friendly, and simple—but simple doesn’t mean you have to strip away the magic. If anything, a small wedding gives you the chance to make every detail feel even more special.

Bring your people – Whether it’s just the two of you or a small group of loved ones, make sure you have your hype squad.
Hire a photographer (aka me!) – Trust me, you’ll want beautiful photos to remember the day!
Celebrate After! – Party it up in the Stockyards, grab brunch at your favorite spot, or toast with a fancy dinner—whatever fits your vibe!

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Paperwork!

After the ceremony, you’ll receive a signed marriage certificate—but you’re not quite done yet! You’ll need to file it with the county clerk’s office to make it official. The good news? The bailiff will offer to mail it for you, saving you the extra step. You can usually request a certified copy fairly quickly—helpful for name changes and all that grown-up stuff!

Bonus: My Favorite Courthouse Wedding Photo Spots!

Sundance Square – A vibrant city backdrop with classic Fort Worth charm (just a heads-up, a permit is required!).
The Courthouse Steps – An iconic setting for that just-married moment.

These are always a favorite, but if your coverage allows, we might have time to sneak in a second location for even more variety. I’ve got a list of go-to spots—so if you're up for a little adventure, let’s make some magic!

Why Book Your Courthouse Ceremony with Me?

After capturing so many beautiful Tarrant County Courthouse weddings, I’ve fallen in love with the magic of these intimate celebrations. It’s more than just the photos—it’s about preserving the quiet glances, the happy tears, and the joy that makes your day uniquely yours.

Whether you’re keeping things simple or envisioning a more personalized session, I’m here to document it all in a way that feels effortless, authentic, and true to you.

Ready to make some courthouse magic? Let’s chat! 🤍