There’s somethings beautifully unfiltered about two people planning their future together, ditching the chaos and making it official their way — no frills, no fuss, just them. For couples who value simplicity, a courthouse ceremony followed by portraits and plans afterwards is the perfect mix of ease and meaning.

If you’re looking to get married on a Friday in Atlanta, you may want to consider the Fulton County Courthouse!

What to Know Before You Get Married at the Fulton County Courthouse:

Note: The court may share photos from group ceremonies on its social media

There are two ways to tie the knot at the Fulton County Courthouse. You can decide between a private ceremony or a group ceremony.

Private Ceremony (By Appointment Only)

Private ceremonies allow for you to bring up to five guests and you must be booked online in advance. New time slots open every Wednesday at 8 AM for that week’s Friday ceremonies. But be sure to hurry and or set a reminder for yourself to book! Booking for weddings on Fridays go quickly! If no appointments are available, you can hire someone from their official Officiant List to perform your ceremony elsewhere (for a fee).

Group Ceremony (Forever Fridays)

Group weddings are held Fridays at 3 PM and are open only to couples with a Fulton County marriage license. Each couple can bring up to two guests due to limited space.

The Rules for a Fulton Courthouse Wedding

Before you show up, here’s exactly what to expect:

1. Ceremonies – There are two ceremony options. There can be a group ceremony or a private ceremony. One requires an appointment while the other does not! Plan accordingly!
2. Ceremony Times – Group weddings happen Fridays at 3pm. Private ceremonies are by appointment.
3. Witness Requirement – None needed!
4. Marriage License Required – You must first obtain your marriage license at the Probate Court prior to showing up for the ceremony.
5. Marriage License Cost – The cost of the marriage license is about $69 without counseling. If you are interested in counseling, its an additional about $26.
6. Valid ID – A driver’s license or government-issued photo ID is required.
7. Come Fully Dressed! – There are no facilities available for changing so they ask that couples come ready.
8. What to Wear – Anything you love! Couples wear everything from casual clothes to full wedding attire with flowers in hand.
9. Guests Allowed – For group ceremonies, you are allowed up to two guests. A private ceremony allows for five guests.
10. Photography – Yes! Your photographer counts as one of your guests’.
11. Cost – There is no fee for the courthouse ceremony. Fulton county calls it “Forever Fridays Free wedding ceremonies”.

What a Courthouse Wedding Day Looks Like

The ceremony itself is short and sweet, officiated by a judge in a group setting. After a few kisses, hugs, and excited smiles, you’ll walk out officially married in less than 20 minutes.

After your ceremony, you’ll have a few moments for photos inside, or you can head outside for great courthouse backdrops like the steps at 136 Pryor or the courtyard at 141 Pryor.

Note: The court may share photos from group ceremonies on its social media.

Ideas for Celebrating After Your Courthouse Ceremony

Your courthouse wedding doesn’t have to end at the courthouse. Many couples plan a relaxed celebration afterward. There are a few things you can do after you say I do and take your portraits.

• A romantic early dinner or late lunch for you two.
• A small celebration with your family.
• Go home, celebrate with yummy foods and your favorite date night at home activity.

If you’re planning a Fulton County Courthouse wedding, let this guide help you make the most of your day from your quick “I do” to those post-ceremony portraits. Your wedding deserves to feel easy, meaningful, and just as special as any big celebration. With a little preparation (and the right photographer to capture it all), your courthouse ceremony can be every bit as beautiful as you’ve imagined.

Are you looking for a wedding photographer to document your courthouse wedding? Look no more! From micro weddings to courthouse weddings & reception dinners to large celebrations, I’ve documented it all! I’d be honored to tell your story, just reach out.

Looking for more info? You can visit their website here.