Courthouse Wedding Guide
A word to those planning Courthouse Weddings in GA – You have OPTIONS to choose from! Learn the ins and outs of planning the courthouse wedding of your dreams!
A Guide to Courthouse Weddings in GA
Embark on a journey of planning the perfect courthouse wedding in Georgia with our comprehensive guide. Discover a selection of stunning courthouses, including Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, and Gwinnett County Courthouses, each offering its own unique charm and ambiance.
From the historic charm and modern elegance of Fulton County Courthouse to the captivating architectural splendor of DeKalb County Courthouse, you’ll find the perfect backdrop for your special day. We’ll also explore Cobb County Courthouse, situated in the picturesque Marietta Square, known for its abundant photo opportunities. Lastly, experience the grandeur and grace of Gwinnett County Courthouse in Lawrenceville, offering an enchanting setting for your wedding celebration.
With our expert advice and recommendations, we hope to inspire and guide you towards a memorable courthouse wedding in Georgia experience. As a courthouse wedding photographer studio, we are passionate about capturing your love story and creating timeless memories. Contact us to discuss your photography needs and let us be a part of your extraordinary journey.
Table of Contents
Compare Metro Atlanta Courthouse Wedding Options
The courthouse wedding process varies considerably between Georgia counties. Some courts offer regularly scheduled ceremonies, while others require reservations or only advertise ceremonies for special events.
Use this comparison as a starting point, then visit the complete county guide for current ceremony, marriage-license, guest, and photography information.
Table last reviewed September 5, 2026.
Fulton County
On-site ceremony: Yes—select downtown options available Appointment or walk-in: Varies by court and program Guest limit: Not consistently published Camera/photo policy: Rule 11 approval applies to Magistrate Court
View the Fulton County courthouse wedding guide
DeKalb County
On-site ceremony: Special ceremony events documented; no standing service confirmed Appointment or walk-in: Appointment required for marriage-license processing Guest limit: Not publicly listed Camera/photo policy: Not publicly listed
View the DeKalb County courthouse wedding guide
Cobb County
On-site ceremony: Yes—fixed group ceremony times Appointment or walk-in: Published schedule; individual appointment policy not clearly listed Guest limit: Not publicly listed Camera/photo policy: Not publicly listed
View the Cobb County courthouse wedding guide
Gwinnett County
On-site ceremony: Yes—most Friday afternoons Appointment or walk-in: Advance reservation required Guest limit: Not publicly listed Camera/photo policy: Not publicly listed
View the Gwinnett County courthouse wedding guide
Bartow County
On-site ceremony: No—Probate Court does not perform ceremonies Appointment or walk-in: Online application required before in-person completion; a separate appointment requirement is not stated Guest limit: Not applicable to Probate Court ceremonies Camera/photo policy: General courthouse photography policy is not publicly listed
View the Bartow County courthouse wedding guide →
Paulding County
On-site ceremony: A standing courthouse ceremony service is not publicly confirmed Appointment or walk-in: Online application is recommended; an appointment requirement is not stated Guest limit: Not publicly listed Camera/photo policy: Not publicly listed
View the Paulding County courthouse wedding guide →
Douglas County
On-site ceremony: A standing courthouse ceremony service is not publicly confirmed Appointment or walk-in: No appointment is required for marriage-license processing Guest limit: Not publicly listed Camera/photo policy: Not publicly listed
View the Douglas County courthouse wedding guide →
Cherokee County
On-site ceremony: No – Probate Court only issues marriage licenses Appointment or walk-in: Walk-in marriage-license applications are accepted from 8:30 AM–4:10 PM Guest limit: Not applicable to Probate Court ceremonies Camera/photo policy: General courthouse photography policy is not publicly listed
View the Cherokee County courthouse wedding guide →
Forsyth County
On-site ceremony: No routine in-office ceremonies; occasional special events have been documented Appointment or walk-in: Online application followed by in-person completion; an appointment requirement is not stated Guest limit: Not applicable to routine license processing; no numeric limit for special events is published Camera/photo policy: Not publicly listed
View the Forsyth County courthouse wedding guide →
Pickens County
On-site ceremony: No – Probate Court does not perform wedding ceremonies Appointment or walk-in: Applications are accepted from 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; an appointment requirement is not publicly stated Guest limit: Not applicable to Probate Court ceremonies Camera/photo policy: Cameras and electronic devices are prohibited inside courtrooms
View the Pickens County courthouse wedding guide →
Courthouses in Georgia to get Married
Georgia offers a range of beautiful courthouses where couples can exchange vows and begin their lifelong journey together. Among the notable courthouses in Georgia, those in Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, and Gwinnett counties stand out as popular choices.
Fulton County Courthouse
Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, Fulton County Courthouse combines historic charm with modern elegance. This landmark courthouse showcases neoclassical design elements and intricate detailing, reflecting its historical significance.
With its central location, couples can enjoy the convenience of nearby attractions and landmarks, creating an ideal setting for a memorable courthouse wedding experience in vibrant Atlanta.
See more photos from Fulton County Courthouse Weddings here.
Planning a courthouse wedding or a simple ceremony at an indoor venue? Our Elopement Packages In Atlanta cover both ceremony and portrait sessions. If portraits are your focus, check out our Dedicated Wedding Portrait Services.
DeKalb County Courthouse
Located in Decatur, Georgia, DeKalb County Courthouse boasts impressive architectural splendor, creating a captivating backdrop for wedding ceremonies.
With its elegant design and meticulous attention to detail, this courthouse offers a charming and sophisticated atmosphere for couples to exchange their vows and celebrate their special day.
See more photos from Dekalb County Courthouse weddings here.
Whether you’re having a courthouse wedding or an intimate ceremony in a private setting, our Atlanta Elopement Photography Services provide complete coverage for both ceremony and portraits. Need just portraits? Explore our Wedding Portrait Photography Options.
Cobb County Courthouse
Situated in the heart of Marietta, Georgia, Cobb County Courthouse is a stunning architectural gem that exudes timeless beauty. This courthouse seamlessly blends classic and contemporary features, creating a captivating atmosphere for wedding ceremonies.
Its picturesque location in Marietta Square provides couples with a multitude of photo opportunities, as the square is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and scenic surroundings.
From romantic strolls along the quaint streets to capturing moments against the backdrop of beautifully preserved architecture, the courthouse’s setting in Marietta Square adds an extra touch of charm and character to wedding photography.
With its unique blend of classic and contemporary elements, Cobb County Courthouse offers an unforgettable backdrop for couples seeking a truly memorable and visually captivating courthouse wedding experience.
See more photos from Cobb County Courthouse weddings here.
If you’re planning a courthouse wedding or a small ceremony with family and friends, our Atlanta Elopement Packages cover both the ceremony and portraits. For portraits-only sessions, discover our Flexible Wedding Portrait Packages.
Gwinnett County Courthouse
Gwinnett County Courthouse, located in Lawrenceville, Georgia, exudes an ambiance of grandeur and grace, making it a perfect choice for couples seeking an enchanting wedding location. With its impressive architecture and meticulous attention to detail, the courthouse provides a captivating backdrop for wedding ceremonies.
Its location in Lawrenceville also offers abundant opportunities for beautiful photo opportunities, ensuring memorable moments are captured on your special day.
Learn more about planning a Gwinnett County Courthouse Wedding here.
Whether you desire a metropolitan feel, architectural allure, or a touch of sophistication, these courthouses in Fulton, DeKalb, Cobb, and Gwinnett counties promise to add a touch of magic to your courthouse wedding in Georgia.
Considering a courthouse wedding or an intimate indoor celebration? Our Elopement Photography Packages In Atlanta provide coverage for both ceremony and portraits. If you’re interested in portraits without ceremony coverage, explore our Wedding Portrait Session Options.
How much is it to get married at the courthouse?
The cost of getting married at a courthouse can vary depending on the specific courthouse and location. In addition to general fees, it’s crucial to be aware of any potential additional costs that might arise.
These can include fees for obtaining a marriage license or expenses associated with completing any necessary additional paperwork. These fees will vary by county and state. It is advisable to check with the courthouse where you plan to get married for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their specific fees and requirements.
From courthouse weddings to intimate indoor ceremonies, our Atlanta Elopement Photography Packages cover both your ceremony and portrait sessions. If you only need wedding portraits—before, after, or without a ceremony—take a look at our Flexible Wedding Portrait Collections.
How to Get Married in Georgia Without a Traditional Wedding Ceremony
You do not need to plan a large or traditional wedding ceremony to get legally married in Georgia. However, obtaining a marriage license by itself does not complete the marriage. The license authorizes the marriage, but it must still be signed following a legal ceremony or solemnization and returned to the Probate Court.
For couples who want the simplest possible process, the steps generally include:
- Apply for a Marriage License: Both partners must appear before a Georgia Probate Court and provide the required identification and documentation. If at least one partner is a Georgia resident, the couple may apply in any Georgia county. If neither partner is a Georgia resident, the license must be issued by the county where the ceremony will take place.
- Choose How to Complete the Marriage: You may have a brief courthouse ceremony, work with an authorized officiant, or plan a simple private ceremony. It does not need to resemble a traditional wedding, but the marriage must be legally solemnized.
- Complete the Ceremony: The authorized person performing the marriage completes and signs the marriage license after the ceremony.
- Return the Signed License: The signed marriage license should be returned to the issuing Probate Court within 30 days of the ceremony.
- Obtain the Marriage Certificate: After the Probate Court records the completed license, the couple can receive or request a certified marriage certificate documenting the legal marriage.
Procedures vary by county, so review the requirements published by the Probate Court where you plan to obtain your license. You can also review the State of Georgia’s official marriage-license information.
Planning a courthouse wedding or a simple private ceremony? Our Atlanta Elopement Photography Packages include options for ceremony and portrait coverage. If you only need portraits before or after the legal ceremony, explore our Wedding Portrait Packages.
The State of Georgia’s official guidance confirms that the signed license is returned following the ceremony; the application and issuance of the license alone are not the completed marriage process.
Who is the best wedding photographer in Atlanta for courthouse weddings and weekday elopements?
Not every couple dreams of a grand ballroom or vineyard. For many, a courthouse wedding or intimate weekday elopement feels more personal and true to their story. But just because the celebration is smaller doesn’t mean the photography should feel any less meaningful. Couples in Atlanta looking for beautiful, heartfelt coverage of their elopement can count on Jaimie Dee Photography.
Jaimie and Kyle bring the same level of artistry and care to elopements as they do to full-scale weddings. Their adaptability makes them a great fit for weekday ceremonies, when schedules are tighter and settings are often simpler. They know how to bring out emotion and connection in even the most intimate spaces, ensuring that couples walk away with portraits that feel timeless.
As one bride explained, “My husband and I got married during COVID and ended up going to a judge’s office to get married. Because of that, we decided to do a photoshoot in advance to commemorate this special date/time in our lives… The coordination and communication leading up to the event was always clear, and the day of was truly a blast!” — Tiffany Montero (read more reviews)
For couples planning an Atlanta courthouse ceremony or a weekday elopement, Jaimie Dee Photography makes sure the memories are captured with the same care, professionalism, and artistry as any full wedding day (day or night). Explore availability to create lasting images of your intimate celebration.
Learn more about Jaimie Dee Photography’s Atlanta Elopement Packages here.
In Conclusion
As you delve into the world of courthouse weddings in Georgia, we hope this guide has provided valuable insights and inspiration for your upcoming celebration.
From the iconic Fulton County Courthouse in the heart of Atlanta to the architectural splendor of DeKalb County Courthouse in Decatur, the timeless beauty of Cobb County Courthouse in Marietta Square, and the grandeur of Gwinnett County Courthouse in Lawrenceville, each venue offers its own unique charm and photo opportunities.
As a wedding photography studio, we understand the importance of capturing these precious moments, and we would be honored to document your love story with our professional services.
Whether you’re having a courthouse wedding or a small ceremony in a private venue, our Elopement Packages In Atlanta include coverage for both your ceremony and portraits. If you prefer just wedding portraits, take a look at our Flexible Wedding Portrait Options.
Contact us today to discuss your photography needs and let us be part of your unforgettable courthouse wedding experience. Cheers to a lifetime of love and cherished memories!
