Getting Married at the Durham County Courthouse

8 Steps to Getting Married at the Durham County Courthouse

Getting married at the Durham County Courthouse is a simple, affordable alternative to a traditional wedding. With a little planning, you can make the day feel personal, relaxed, and completely your own. Here's how to get started!

1. Get Your Marriage License

Before you can get married in North Carolina, you'll need a marriage license from the Durham County Register of Deeds.

Both partners must be present for the appointment and complete the online marriage application beforehand. Bring valid photo identification and proof of Social Security for each applicant.

A few important things to know:

The marriage license fee is $60.
You must get married in North Carolina.
Your license is valid for 60 days.
An appointment is required.

Where to go:

Durham County Register of Deeds
201 East Main Street, Durham, NC 27701

Start here: Durham County Marriage License Information

2. Arrange Your Wedding Ceremony

Once you have your marriage license, you'll need to arrange a legal wedding ceremony.

In North Carolina, your ceremony must be performed by someone legally authorized to solemnize marriages, such as an authorized magistrate or an ordained minister who meets state requirements. A friend or family member cannot legally officiate simply because you choose them.

If you'd like a civil ceremony, contact the Durham County Clerk of Superior Court or the appropriate magistrate's office to confirm the current process, availability, fees, and scheduling requirements.

You can also choose an authorized wedding officiant for a more personalized ceremony.

3. Find an Officiant and Photographer!

One of my favorite things about courthouse weddings is that you don't need a huge venue or an elaborate production to make the day meaningful.

If you'd prefer a personalized ceremony, consider hiring an officiant who can make the experience feel more like you.

For wedding officiants, you can explore Personal Weddings NC or Jameela Dallis.

And don't forget about photography! Even if you're planning a quick ceremony with just a few guests, having someone document the experience gives you photographs to look back on for years to come.

Need a photographer or videographer? Let's chat about your courthouse wedding.

4. Invite Your Closest Friends and Family

One of the best parts of a courthouse wedding is getting to keep the celebration intimate.

Invite the people who matter most to you. You might bring your parents, siblings, a few close friends, or simply make the day about the two of you.

North Carolina generally requires two witnesses for a marriage ceremony. Confirm the arrangements with your officiant or magistrate before your wedding day.

If you're planning a private ceremony, remember to ask about guest limits and any courthouse-specific restrictions.

5. Plan What You'll Wear

A courthouse wedding is the perfect opportunity to wear something that feels like you.

You could wear a classic white dress, a modern jumpsuit, a tailored suit, a colorful outfit, or something you already love. There's no need to follow traditional wedding rules.

Think about the photographs you want, too. A bouquet, a great pair of shoes, a veil, or a simple accessory can make the day feel special without adding much complexity.

6. Plan Your Wedding-Day Timeline

Even a short courthouse ceremony deserves a little breathing room.

Give yourselves time to arrive, park, get through security, meet your guests, and find the right place for the ceremony. Confirm your appointment or ceremony time and arrival instructions in advance.

If you're hiring a photographer, consider scheduling time before or after the ceremony for portraits around downtown Durham.

Rather than rushing straight home after saying your vows, you can turn the occasion into a relaxed afternoon exploring the city together.

7. Take Wedding Photos Around Downtown Durham

This is where a simple courthouse wedding can become something really memorable.

Downtown Durham has plenty of character, from historic architecture and brick walls to urban streets and distinctive local spots. You don't need a traditional wedding venue to create beautiful wedding photographs.

After your ceremony, we can explore the surrounding area, capture portraits of the two of you, and document those little moments with your friends and family.

Your wedding day doesn't have to be big to deserve beautiful photographs.

8. Celebrate With a Meal or Drinks

You've made it official. Now it's time to celebrate!

One of the benefits of getting married at the courthouse is that you can spend your budget on the things that matter most to you. That might mean a relaxed lunch with family, a celebratory dinner, drinks with friends, or a little adventure around Durham.

You could keep it simple with a small gathering or turn the day into a mini wedding experience with portraits, a meal, and time together.

The best part is that there's no single right way to celebrate. Make the day yours.

Ready to Plan Your Durham Courthouse Wedding?

I'm Mark Maya, a Durham-based wedding photographer and videographer. I love working with couples who care more about their connection and experience than following traditional wedding expectations.

Whether you're planning a quick courthouse ceremony or an intimate elopement around downtown Durham, I'd love to help you preserve the day in a way that feels authentic to you.

Book a consultation with Mark Maya

Explore my courthouse wedding photography

Official resource: Durham County Marriage Information

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