Life

6 Reasons Why You Should Get Married At City Hall

by Kalie Eyman

If you've ever found yourself saying "let's just get married already!" during the course of your engagement, maybe it's time to consider skipping the extravagant ceremony for city hall. You can get to the heart of the matter with a simple, straightforward ceremony at city hall. It's an opportunity to have a more private wedding, whether you plan on inviting those closest to you or savoring the moment alone as a couple.

When it comes to planning for a city hall wedding, you can make it a special occasion or just go bare bones with it. City hall is a busy place, so if you're fine with a low-key ceremony and just want to get that marriage license signed, it's the place to be. However, there are still plenty of ways to make it an unforgettable day that's all about what you want, not what your bridesmaids or your future in-laws want. Find a bouquet of flowers you adore, wear whatever your heart desires, and hire a photographer that you both love to document it all. Wedding photos in an urban, downtown setting are sure to be stunning. If that doesn't have you convinced, here are 6 more reasons why you should tie the knot at city hall below.

1. You can say goodbye to all the stressful planning

Getting married at city hall gives you the chance to forget about all the chair rentals and aisle decorations and simply focus on what truly matters: the beginning of a beautiful marriage with your new spouse!

2. It's a super budget-friendly option

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Although some city hall ceremonies can cost a few hundred bucks, depending on where you live, it's probably cheaper than the cost of your ceremony. Aside from the big reception costs, a ceremony can still end up costing a fortune once you consider the chair rentals, decorations, flowers, and the event space.

3. You can make it an intimate gathering with your closest family and friends

Get the best of both worlds and save all your money for a relaxed, fun party with your family and friends. Keep in mind that most city halls only allow up to 15 people in the room during the ceremony, so plan accordingly. On the plus side, this can be the perfect option if you're looking for a smaller ceremony, but still want to celebrate with all of your friends and extended family afterwards.

4. It's a common, modern-day ceremony

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Create a ceremony that reflects your values as a couple, whether that means a civil ceremony, a justice of the peace, or a friend acting as the officiant. Always check with your local city hall to find out their rules for marriage ceremonies before you run off to get hitched!

5. It's great if you don't like being the center of attention

Being an introvert is hard, and it's especially difficult when you're expected to walk down the aisle looking your absolute best with everyone staring at you. Pressure, much?

6. You can rock a non-traditional outfit

You can always do this for any type of ceremony, of course, but grandma is less likely to be shocked at your trendy white pantsuit if you're at city hall instead of the family church. Besides, if Solange Knowles can rock this chic wedding pantsuit, the options are endless!

Images: mjsoko/Instagram; Getty Images (2); fashionandtravelguru/Instagram