Los Angeles Courthouse Wedding
Couples looking to have a Los Angeles courthouse wedding might have to travel to another county for in-person marriage services. As of today's date, a civil ceremony at Pasadena City Hall, Beverly Hills Courthouse, and Los Angeles City Hall is only being performed virtually. A marriage license is needed for a virtual ceremony. General information about a Los Angeles marriage license can be found here.
An alternative to getting your marriage license and civil ceremony in Los Angeles is to head down to Orange County. You can choose from the historic Old OC Courthouse in Santa Ana or the Laguna Hills Civic Center. Both locations take appointments and walk-ins for a marriage license and civil ceremony. However, it is highly recommended to make an appointment beforehand. To make an appointment for a marriage license and ceremony in Orange County start by applying for your online marriage license application.
5 Tips On How To Make Your Elopement Special During Covid
Your Wedding, big or small is a very special day.
#1 What to wear
Wedding Dress and Suit
Why not dress up? Choose your favorite dress in any color. Put on a suit and make the day extra special.
#2 Flowers
Flower Bouquet
Always add a beautiful touch to the day. They brighten up photos and are a nice tradition to bring to your elopement.
#3 Hairstyle
Have your hair done professionally.
Pamper yourself with professional hair and makeup. 
#4 Photos
Memories forever
Capture your big day with professional photos.
Memories that will last a lifetime.
#5 Celebretory Meal
Close family and friends
Invite a few of your closest family and friends and go
out to lunch or dinner to celebrate your wedding.
LOS ANGELES COURTHOUSE WEDDING LOCATIONS
There are 3 main civil marriage ceremony locations in LA to choose from. Pasadena City Hall, Beverly Hills Courthouse, & LA City Hall. *In-person availability may be limited during Covid 19.
Laguna Hills Civic Center
If you are finding it challenging to book your civil marriage ceremony in Los Angeles try the Laguna Hills Civic Center in Orange County. Just an hour's drive south of LA. In-person appointments or walk-ins are available. Get up-to-date information about the Laguna Hills Civic Center marriage services here.
4 facts to know before you head over?
- Couples must complete their marriage application online prior to visiting any of the offices.
- Ceremony rooms are currently closed. All marriage ceremonies will be performed at the service desk/counter where the marriage license is issued.
- The couple must provide at least one witness. If you hire a photographer they can be your witness. The department will not provide witnesses under any circumstances.
- Couples must appear together in person and present valid government-issued photo identification at their appointment
Los Angeles County Marriage License
Can I use my LA County Marriage License in Orange County?
- Yes, the license can be used anywhere in the state of California.
- Valid for 90 days.
- Cost of an LA County marriage license is $91.
- An OC County marriage license is $61.
Elopement Photography
4 Tips When Choosing a Professional Photographer
- Start by looking at the photographer's portfolio. Wedding, engagement, and elopement photos will give you an idea of their style.
- Are they familiar with the location you are getting married at? This will help meet your expectations from your portrait session.
- Ask if there is a mid-week package and if they offer multiple locations. Some photographers have special offers for Monday-Thursday elopements.
- Communication with the photographer should be easy and accessible via email, text, or phone.
Why go to a second location for photos?
While it is nice to take photos inside the civic center or courthouse on your elopement you will get a better variety of photos to choose from with a second location.
The benefits
- Announcement cards
- Portraits that you want to print
- Canvas prints
- Holiday cards
- Wedding album
Bottom Line
If you are having difficulty getting married at an LA courthouse or City Hall check out your options in Orange County.
Make your elopement memorable and get professional photos.
Choose a second location for portraits near the Civic Center or Courthouse you choose.
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.
Schedule Call
Book your free call today. Use the link below to schedule a quick call so that I can learn more about you, answer all of your questions, and help you start planning your headshot session.
Easy Photo Session
Relax! I will coach you through the process so you feel and look your best, including posing, facial expression, and expert guidance throughout our time together.
Fast Delivery
I will have your images ready within 24 hours. So you can pick your favorites and have your online profile updated quickly.