Laguna Beach Courthouse Wedding

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Laguna Beach Courthouse Wedding

A Laguna Beach Courthouse wedding takes place outside in front of the City Hall building or next door at the Laguna Beach County Water District in the beautiful Bruce Sherer Waterwise Firesafe garden. Here an appointed official City Clerk will perform your civil marriage ceremony. This is a beautiful location located in the heart of Laguna Beach, CA. Directly across the street is one of my favorite Instagrammable spots in Laguna Beach. 

A few years back I photographed a beautiful civil marriage ceremony at the Laguna Beach City Hall. I fell in love with this location immediately. Since then, I have learned all the ins and outs of an elopement wedding here. In this article, I share all the Faqs and everything you need to know about a Laguna Beach City Hall Marriage. Be sure to watch the video for a behind-the-scenes tour of what a real wedding here looks like. 

Learn more about Christopher Todd Studios' Orange County elopement photography services packages and prices. 

See other photography services by Christopher Todd Studios

How to get married in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach City Hall Civil marriage ceremony 

3 easy steps to an intimate civil marriage ceremony 

#1 Make your appointment

Weddings at Laguna Beach City Hall are by appointment only

City Clerk's Office (949) 497-0705

Begin the process by completing the City Hall Civil Marriage Ceremony Registration Form to submit your request.

#2 Obtain marriage license

Bring original marriage license. Laguna Beach City Hall does not provide marriage licenses. 

A marriage license can be obtained in advance through the Orange County Clerk Recorders Office. 

#3 Day of Civil marriage ceremony

3 important things to bring

1. Original marriage license

2. Present photo identifications

3. Bring at least one witness

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Laguna Beach Weddings

What to expect from a civil marriage ceremony at Laguna Beach City Hall

City Hall is a perfect location for a Laguna Beach elopement. Below you will find details and important information on how to get married at Laguna Beach City Hall.

How does a civil marriage ceremony work at Laguna Beach City Hall?

• Schedule an appointment to have a civil ceremony at Laguna Beach City Hall. The First step, go online and complete the City Hall Civil Marriage Ceremony Registration Form and submit your request.
• Marriage License: Apply for your marriage license through the Orange County Clerk Recorders Office. This needs to be done in advance and bring the marriage license with you for your civil marriage ceremony at the city hall.

Can we exchange our own vows during the ceremony?

Yes. At the Laguna Beach City Hall, you are allowed to exchange personal vows.

Who officiates the ceremony at LB City Hall?

In California, elected City Clerks are authorized to perform civil marriage ceremonies throughout the State of California.

An elected city clerk will be assigned to you on your wedding day to perform the civil ceremony. 

Ceremony times range from 5-10 minutes long. This includes exchanging vows and rings. 

Pro Tip: Hire a Laguna Beach Photographer who is familiar with the area. This will ensure your special day is documented for you and your loved ones. 

What to bring to your Laguna Beach City Hall wedding

• Important to know: You must bring your original marriage license with you on the day of your ceremony.
• Both parties must present photo identification (i.e. driver’s license or passport).
• Don't forget to bring a witness. Just in case you do City Hall can provide one for you. (Your photographer can also be your witness).

Where does the wedding ceremony take place in Laguna Beach?

•  There are 2 locations where your Civil ceremony will take place. The first location is outside in front of City Hall. Ceremonies are held during City Hall hours: Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., every other Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. City Hall is closed every other Friday, holidays, and weekends.

• The second location is in the Water Wise firesafe garden a 60-second walk from the City Hall. 
• Couples looking to get married on the beach in Laguna can get details on permits and locations by visiting the official Laguna beach City site here.

7 Pro Tips for Planning your Laguna Beach courthouse wedding

1. Choose a date for your Laguna courthouse wedding ceremony. This is done only by advanced appointments. No walk-ups are taken. 
2. Apply for a marriage license and bring it to your civil ceremony.
3. Write a love note to your groom and vice versa to read at the ceremony.
4. Choose a nearby location for an intimate portrait session immediately following the ceremony. Main Beach in Laguna is perfect for photos. 
5. Book vendors for your special day. Including, an elopement photographer, florist, and advanced reservations for an intimate celebratory meal after your ceremony. Las Brisas, Mastro's Ocean Club, and The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach are some of our favorite spots. 
6. Wear something special on your wedding day. 
7. For the bride, we suggest getting hair and makeup done to look and feel your best. For the groom be sure to iron your outfit and get your hair cut a week before. 

Bottom Line

Choosing the Laguna Beach City Hall for your civil wedding ceremony is a perfect place to exchange vows. The location is perfect for portraits and nearby are plenty of options for a second location for a portrait session. If you are looking for other locations in Laguna Beach not regulated by the city you can check out these locations below.

Crystal Cove State Park, The Montage, The Ranch Laguna Beach, The Ritz-Carlton

Seven7Seven, The Surf and Sand Hotel, Terra Laguna Beach



If you are not quite ready to tie the knot but want more information on a Laguna Beach marriage proposal, we've got you covered. 

Meet Christopher Todd – Your Trusted Orange County Photographer

Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that. Born and raised in Orange County, I’ve spent my life exploring this beautiful area. From surfing in Huntington Beach to discovering the best photo spots across the OC. Over the past 25 years as a professional photographer, I’ve continued to learn, grow, and refine my craft, specializing in headshots, family portraits, weddings, and events. My deep local knowledge helps me guide clients to the perfect locations—whether it’s a hidden coastal gem in Laguna Beach, a sunlit park in Irvine, or an iconic spot like the Huntington Beach Pier.

To make planning your session even easier, I’ve put together my Top 10 Outdoor Family Portrait Locations in Orange County guide. If you're looking for an experienced, passionate photographer who truly knows OC, let’s connect! Contact me today.

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