Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

Are you looking to have a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding or elopement? I am a Los Angeles wedding photographer who has documented several civil ceremonies at the Beverly Hills Courthouse. I am including all of my tips for having a seamless Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding and scheduling your Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding appointment below!

Steps to Have a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

Step 1: Obtain Your Marriage License

To begin the process and prior to scheduling your civil ceremony date, you will need to apply for a marriage license online. Instructions on how to purchase a license can be found on the Beverly Hills Courthouse Marriage License Application page. Marriage license applications can be completed online prior to your visit, but must be finalized at the courthouse with both parties present.

Be prepared to pay the required fee, which can range from $91 to $100, depending on the type of marriage license you choose.

To obtain a marriage license at the Beverly Hills Courthouse, both parties must be at least 18 years old and present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport. If either party has been previously married or in a registered domestic partnership, you'll need to provide the date of the termination and the reason (e.g., divorce, death, etc.).

Step 2: Schedule Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding Appointment

Once you have obtained your marriage license, you can schedule your Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding appointment. NOTE: Appointments are only available three (3) weeks in advance. If no appointments are available, they have been filled for those weeks. Continue to monitor the website as appointments could open on a daily basis.

The courthouse performs wedding ceremonies Monday through Friday, between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM, by appointment only. It's important to arrive early on your scheduled wedding day, as ceremonies are often booked back-to-back.

Be aware that there is a separate fee for the civil ceremony, which is typically $35. You may reschedule one time. If you need to reschedule again a new fee will be required.

Setting up a Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding appointment can be done HERE. Additionally, you can contact the courthouse at 1-800-201-8999 to check availability and book a date and time that suits you. Make sure to have your license with you when you call.

All ceremonies are scheduled for 15 minutes. Outside ministers/officiants are not allowed to do ceremonies in the Beverly Hills Courthouse chapel.

When is the Best Time to Have Your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding?

The best time is definitely either early in the morning, before 9:30 am OR the 2.5 - 2 hours before sunset. This is because the lighting is softer during both of these time frames. It's key to avoid harsh light. Harsh light causes unflattering shadows, squinting, etc.

TIP: Tell everyone to arrive to your ceremony 15 - 20 minutes before the actual start time. Why? To ensure all appointments are met in a timely manner, the Beverly Hills Courthouse offers up to a five (5) minute grace period if one is late. If couples exceed that grace period, the appointment will be cancelled.

Step 3: Book Your Vendors

Vendors for Beverly Hills Courthouse weddings or elopements typically include the following:

• Your photographer
• A florist for your bouquet
• Hair and Makeup Artist

Looking for a photographer for your Pasadena City Hall Photos? Reach me Below!

STEP 4: Secure Your Photography Permit

The Beverly Hills Courthouse and the Beverly Hills City Hall (another great place for photos right next to the courthouse) DO require a permit for photography. To acquire one, contact the City of Beverly Hills' Film and Photography Permit Office. They can provide you with specific information regarding fees, rules, and guidelines for photography around the courthouse.

It's key to obtain a permit as one cannot take wedding photos at the Beverly hIlls City Hall without a permit.

You can reach the office by phone at (310) 285-2408 or visit their website for more information.

Step 5: Organize Your Ceremony Details

Here are some important details to keep in mind for your Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding ceremony:

Does the Beverly Hills Courthouse Have a Guest Count Limit?

The Beverly Hills Courthouse does impose some limitations on the number of guests allowed at your wedding ceremony. Generally, civil ceremonies in the courthouse can accommodate up to 20 guests. It's important to confirm the guest limit when booking your ceremony, as different rooms may have different capacities.

Can You Use Personalized Vows?

If you would like to exchange rings or personalize your vows, discuss these details with the presiding judge or commissioner ahead of time.

Can We Incorporate Our Own Readings or Music Selections?

Yes, you can personalize your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding ceremony by incorporating your own vows, readings, or music selections. It's important to discuss your preferences with the deputy commissioner beforehand to ensure that your chosen elements can be seamlessly integrated into the ceremony.

Will You Need to Appoint a Witness?

Ensure that you have a witness present, as they will be required to sign your marriage license during the ceremony. The Beverly Hills Courthouse can also provide a witness for your civil ceremony for $20.

Can We Bring Decor?

If you're considering adding personal touches or decorations to your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding, keep in mind that the courthouse may have specific rules and regulations regarding what is allowed. It's best to consult with the courthouse staff prior to your wedding day to ensure that your desired decorations are permissible. Generally, items such as flowers, small table decorations, and a guest book are acceptable, while more elaborate setups or alterations to the courthouse space may not be permitted.

STEP 6: Select a Close-By Secondary Location for Photos

The Beverly Hills City Hall, which is right next to the Beverly Hills Courthouse, is beautiful and great for photos! However, there are also multiple other locations (very close to the courthouse) that also provide breathtaking backdrops for photographs. If you'd like variety, I always recommend adding a secondary location!

Please keep in mind that every location has different photography/permit regulations.

Below are several photo locations for your Beverly Hills wedding. My personal favorite route is the following: the ceremony at the Beverly Hills Courthouse >> photos at Beverly Hills City hall >> photos at Greystone Mansion & Gardens OR photos at UCLA.

Beverly Hills City Hall - 0.2 miles from the courthouse

The historic Beverly Hills City Hall features stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture, making it an ideal backdrop for elegant wedding photos. The building's ornate facade, courtyard, and lush landscaping create a variety of photo opportunities.

Beverly Gardens Park - 0.3 miles from the courthouse

A picturesque park stretching along Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Gardens Park features a variety of settings for wedding photos, including the iconic Beverly Hills Sign, beautiful gardens, and the historic Electric Fountain, and a desert landscape zone.

Will Rogers Memorial Park - 0.2 miles from the courthouse

Located across the street from the Beverly Hills Courthouse, Will Rogers Memorial Park offers a convenient location for wedding photos with its lush greenery, charming pond, and historic gazebo.

Greystone Mansion & Gardens - 1.8 miles from the courthouse

This historic estate is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos. The mansion's elegant architecture and grand staircase make for memorable images.

Virginia Robinson Gardens - 2.1 miles from the courthouse

The lush, historic Virginia Robinson Gardens feature a variety of botanical gardens, fountains, and unique architectural structures, offering a diverse and enchanting setting for your wedding photos.

Franklin Canyon Park - 4.4 miles from the courthouse

This tranquil park offers a variety of natural backdrops for wedding photos, including a picturesque lake, hiking trails, and scenic vistas of the Santa Monica Mountains.

Coldwater Canyon Park - 3.1 miles from the courthouse

With its greenery, meandering trails, and charming bridges, Coldwater Canyon Park provides a serene and picturesque setting for your wedding photos.

UCLA Campus - 4.5 miles from the courthouse

The beautiful University of California, Los Angeles campus features a variety of stunning photo locations, including the iconic Royce Hall, picturesque sculpture garden, and historic brick buildings. I recommend this location because it has gorgeous architecture. It doesn't feel like you're on a campus when you're taking photos here.

STEP 7: Make Plans for After Your Ceremony

If you're eloping or having an intimate Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding, here are some amazing restaurants to have a lovely, intimate dinner reception.

Spago Beverly Hills - 0.4 miles from the Courthouse

Located just a short walk from the Beverly Hills Courthouse, Spago is a fine dining restaurant by renowned chef Wolfgang Puck. Known for its innovative fusion of Californian and European cuisine, Spago offers a luxurious and intimate atmosphere.

The Belvedere - 0.7 miles from the Courthouse

The Belvedere, situated inside The Peninsula Beverly Hills hotel, is a sophisticated dining option for your wedding reception. Offering modern American cuisine crafted by Executive Chef David Codney, the restaurant features a beautiful terrace and elegant interior. .

Il Cielo - 0.8 miles from the Courthouse

Il Cielo is an Italian restaurant located in a beautiful garden setting, perfect for a romantic reception dinner. With twinkling lights and a cozy ambiance, this restaurant creates an intimate atmosphere for your celebration. Their menu offers traditional Italian dishes, including homemade pasta, seafood, and delicious desserts.

Mastro's Steakhouse - 1.1 miles from the Courthouse

Mastro's Steakhouse is a high-end restaurant offering an extensive selection of prime steaks, seafood, and other gourmet dishes. What I love most about this place is their live music.

The Rooftop by JG - 1.2 miles from the Courthouse

Located atop the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, The Rooftop by JG offers stunning panoramic views of the city, making it a picturesque location for your wedding reception.

Avra Beverly Hills - 1.5 miles from the Courthouse

Avra is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offering an array of fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional Greek dishes.

Fogo de Chão - 1.9 miles

Fogo de Chão is a Brazilian steakhouse offering a unique dining experience for your wedding reception. With a variety of fire-roasted meats carved tableside, as well as an extensive salad bar and traditional Brazilian side dishes, this restaurant provides a lively and interactive atmosphere.

STEP 9: Craft Your Wedding Day Timeline

This will help keep your day stress free! If you're wondering how to best create a wedding day timeline, I've included to templates below!

Please keep in mind that these timelines are simply examples! We can always customize the perfect timeline to best fit you needs! We can include a picnic at the beach, a short hike, portraits at a farther location with a completely different backdrop, etc. The options are limitless!

Beverly Hills Courthouse Intimate Wedding Timeline Template

Here are two timeline options for a Beverly Hills Courthouse Intimate Wedding Ceremony:

Quick & Easy: 2 Hours

• 20 Minutes - Ceremony
• 30 Minutes - Family/Friend Portraits
• 70 Minutes - Couple Portraits

More Coverage: 5 Hours

60 Minutes - Getting Ready Photos

15 Minutes - Travel to Courthouse

20 Minutes - Ceremony

30 Minutes - Family/Friend Portraits

40 Minutes - Couple Portraits at Courthouse

15 Minutes - Travel to Another Photo Location Close By

45 Minutes - Couple Portraits at Second Location

15 Minutes - Travel to Reception Location

60 Minutes - Photos of you entering your reception and being greeted by loved ones, a few speeches, and if applicable, a first dance

FAQS About a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

I have compiled a list of the top questions related to Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding for couples planning their wedding at the Beverly Hills Courthouse:

How much does a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding cost?

The Beverly Courthouse Marriage License fee is currently $91 to $100, depending on the type of marriage license you choose. The civil ceremony fee is $35. The Beverly Hills Courthouse can also provide a witness for your civil ceremony for $20. With photography, a bouquet, professional hair/makeup and wedding outfits, I would say the total cost could be anywhere between $2,000 - $3,000.

What is the process for booking a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding, and how far in advance should we reserve our date?

To book a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding, you'll need to first obtain a marriage license from the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk's office. It's recommended that you reserve your wedding date at least 4-6 weeks in advance, as popular dates and times can fill up quickly.

You can make a reservation online, over the phone, or in person. Keep in mind that you'll need to present valid identification and pay the required fees at the time of booking.

Are there any restrictions on the number of guests we can invite to our Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding?

The Beverly Hills Courthouse does impose some limitations on the number of guests allowed at your wedding ceremony. Generally, civil ceremonies in the courthouse can accommodate up to 20 guests. It's important to confirm the guest limit when booking your ceremony, as different rooms may have different capacities.

What types of wedding ceremony options are available at the Beverly Hills Courthouse?

The Beverly Hills Courthouse primarily offers civil ceremonies, which are non-religious and performed by a deputy commissioner. Couples can choose from a variety of pre-written vows, or work with the deputy commissioner to create a personalized ceremony. In addition to the standard civil ceremony, the courthouse occasionally hosts themed wedding events, which may offer a unique twist on the traditional ceremony.

Can we personalize our Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding ceremony with our own vows, readings, or music selections?

Yes, you can personalize your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding ceremony by incorporating your own vows, readings, or music selections. It's important to discuss your preferences with the deputy commissioner beforehand to ensure that your chosen elements can be seamlessly integrated into the ceremony.

What are the available days and hours for scheduling a Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding appointment?

Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding appointments are typically available Monday through Friday during regular business hours, which are usually 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It's important to arrive early on your scheduled wedding day, as ceremonies are often booked back-to-back.

What is the cancellation or rescheduling policy for a Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding appointment, in case of unforeseen circumstances?

The cancellation or rescheduling policy for a Beverly Hills Courthouse wedding appointment typically requires that you notify the courthouse at least 24 hours in advance to avoid forfeiting your ceremony fees.

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or a family emergency, you may be able to reschedule your ceremony without penalty. However, it's important to contact the courthouse as soon as possible to discuss your options and make the necessary arrangements.

Where Do We Park?

There is a charge for courthouse parking and metered street parking is available on the surrounding streets. The address to the courthouse is 9355 Burton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

For guests with mobility limitations or disabilities, the courthouse is generally equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Contact the courthouse to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations for your guests.

Can we bring a professional photographer or videographer to capture our Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding?

Yes, you can bring a professional photographer or videographer to capture your Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding. However, it's essential to inform the courthouse of your plans in advance and ensure that your chosen professionals adhere to any guidelines or restrictions set by the venue. This may include limitations on equipment, lighting, and setup.

If you'd like to reach out about photography, inquire below! I'd be honored to document your day!

Pros of a Beverly Hills Courthouse Ceremony

You may be in the process of deciding how you two want to tie the knot. Personally, when it comes to an important decision, I love a good pros and cons list. If you're still on the fence about having a civil ceremony, I've listed some pros/cons of getting married at the Beverly Hills Courthouse below:

Pros of Having a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

Stylish Setting: The Beverly Hills Courthouse is located in a chic and iconic area, giving your ceremony a touch of glamour. The Beverly Hills City Hall is gorgeous, offering a beautiful backdrop for photography & creating memories.

Simplicity: Civil ceremonies are straightforward and hassle-free, making the process smooth and stress-free. This is a MAJOR pro in my book.

Cost-Effective: It’s a budget-friendly option compared to traditional wedding venues, allowing you to save money for other important things, like your honeymoon.

Intimate Atmosphere: The courthouse setting keeps the ceremony intimate, perfect for those who prefer a small gathering with close family and friends.

Convenient Location: Being in Beverly Hills means you have easy access to a variety of fantastic restaurants and spots for a celebratory meal or photoshoot right after the ceremony.

Time Efficient: The ceremony itself is short and sweet, so you can spend more time celebrating with your loved ones.

No Weather Worries: Indoor ceremonies mean you won’t have to stress about unpredictable weather ruining your big day.

Legal and Official: Your marriage will be legally recognized right away, with all the paperwork handled efficiently.

Personalized Yet Simple: You can still add personal touches to make the ceremony special, without the complexity of larger weddings.

Cons of Having a Beverly Hills Courthouse Wedding

Limited Guest List: Courthouse ceremonies often have a cap on the number of guests, which might mean cutting down your guest list more than you’d like.

Less Personalization: The setting is more formal and less customizable than a traditional wedding venue, so it might not reflect your personal style as much. The ceremony script and structure are also pretty standard, so there’s less room for unique vows or personalized touches.

Quick Ceremony: While efficient, the ceremony can feel a bit rushed, lacking the leisurely pace of a longer, more traditional ceremony.

No Reception Space: You’ll need to find a separate location for any post-ceremony celebrations, adding a bit more planning to your plate. However, most couple opt for dinner at a nice restaurant afterwards, so the planning for this specifically isn't usually too bad!

Public Space: Being a courthouse, the space might not feel as private or intimate as you’d like, with other people coming and going.

Less Grand Ambiance: If you’re dreaming of a grand, elaborate wedding setting, a courthouse might feel a bit too simple and understated.

Time Restrictions: You might have to work within the courthouse’s hours and schedule, which could limit your flexibility in planning the timing of your big day.

Beverly Hills Wedding Venues

You may want to integrate the beauty of the Beverly Hills Courthouse into your wedding day somehow, but perhaps you’re still looking for a wedding venue for a larger wedding reception.

In this case, the Beverly Hills Courthouse can be used for your portraits, while a nearby wedding venue can be used for your reception.

For Beverly Hills wedding venue recommendations, view my Beverly Hills Wedding Guide below:

15 Dreamy Beverly Hills Wedding Venues

Get In Touch!

If you're looking for a Malibu Wedding Photographer to capture your wedding day, then I am your gal! Inquire down below to chat about wedding details and to capture your Cielo Farms Wedding!