If you are the type of couple that doesn’t want to spend their life savings on a wedding and wants to use that money to go on a fancy honeymoon or pursue your dream, we don’t judge you. Or, if you are the couple that wants to take vows only in front of your loved ones and don’t want to go through the hassle of planning a big wedding, then courthouse weddings are the best option for you.
How Courthouse Weddings Help Save Money
Aside from saving money on the big venue, there are many other ways courthouse weddings are budget-friendly.
No Extensive Guest List
One of the major reasons people opt for courthouse weddings instead of traditional weddings is that they don’t want to invite guests to their special day that they barely know. You can only invite up to 10-15 people to a courthouse wedding, thus limiting the invites to friends and family only.
No Extravagant Invites
Since the guest list is about 15 people long, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars sending extravagant and fancy invites to your friends and family. You can add a touch of personalization by DIY-ing the invites and making the event more memorable. Similarly, you can also save up on wedding favors.
No Photographer
This is up to your preference, but you don’t necessarily need to get a photographer to capture your small, intimate wedding. This is where you can also ask your close friends for help. If any of them is a decent photographer, ask them to capture the moments. You can also hire a professional photographer and splurge a little on a day shoot to always have something to look back to.
No Flower Arrangements
Another reason why people consider courthouse weddings instead of traditional weddings is because they don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on unnecessary arrangements, especially floral. Floral arrangements are costly, and covering up a big venue can take a huge cut. But in courthouse weddings, you don’t have to do that. Simple bouquets or corsages for the bride and guests are the perfect way to add something floral to the wedding without costing a lot of money.
The courthouse wedding checklist is much smaller than a traditional wedding, but the beauty of the day remains the same. Another way you can save money is by opting for a simple yet breathtaking wedding dress. Let’s discuss some courthouse wedding dress ideas below.
Courthouse Wedding Dress Ideas
When it comes to courthouse wedding dress ideas, nothing is off-limits. The bride and groom can wear whatever they want. A tailored suit is the best and often the only option for the groom. In contrast, there are several options available for brides, each more beautiful than the last. The bride can go traditional, modern, or chic and does not have to spend a lot of money on an expensive over-the-top gown.
1. Lace Mini Dress
If you are planning your courthouse wedding in the summers, then go for a lace dress. Lace dresses are timeless, unique, and super cute. They are perfect for every occasion, even your intimate summer wedding, and can be worn down and up by adding accessories. They can be long, mini, or in any style you want and can also be reused in the future, so it’s money well spent.
2. Yuki Dress
Another unique idea for a courthouse wedding dress is a Yuki dress. It is a knee-length pull-over tunic with extended shoulders and a tapered hemline. The dress fits comfortably and hugs you from all the right curves, accentuating your figure and making you feel beautiful. Yuki dresses are also available in various styles, so you can choose according to your preference.
3. Slim-Fit Suit
For ultra-modern chic brides, the slim-fit suit option is the best. A complete suit with a blazer and pants is sure to make you stand out from the crowd and is also a great option for brides that don’t feel comfortable in a dress or gown.
4. Floral Print
Another thing that is not acceptable in a traditional wedding but can easily be worn in a courthouse wedding is floral prints. Floral prints can be colorful, two-toned, bright, or dull. They are many varieties available, and all of them look amazing. Floral courthouse wedding dresses are perfect for summer weddings. You can accessorize it with a cute hat, sandals, heels, or even sneakers.
5. Jumpsuit
A bridal jumpsuit is a great way to turn heads in a crowd. It is form-fitting, sexy, and comes in so many varieties. For example, you can wear a floral jumpsuit or keep it classy by going for a plain, shiny, and silky jumpsuit. You can accessorize it with extravagant jewelry and an embellished clutch.
6. Blazer Dress
If you want to look chic and modern and still wear a dress, go for a blazer dress. It looks modern and unique and is perfect for courthouse weddings. You can pair it up with simple studs, a plain stylish clutch, and a color-matching bouquet to complete the look.
7. Wrap Dress
Another fun courthouse wedding dress idea is a wrap dress. If you are going for a fun and beachy vibe, then this is the look for you. A wrap dress is closed from the front by wrapping one side across the other and tying a knot at the corner or fastening buttons. It hugs all your curves and forms a V-neck that looks super cute. It can be a mini dress or a long gown.
8. Maxi Dress
If you want to feel comfortable in what you are wearing, a maxi dress is a perfect choice. Form-fitting from the waist above with a loose flowing skirt, it looks extremely beautiful on the wearer and can be reused for future occasions. You can either go for a floral print or a satin maxi to accentuate your figure.
9. Top and Skirt
Another unique courthouse wedding dress idea is wearing separates. This is a very casual look for a wedding but can be made fancy by pairing it up with a clutch and statement jewelry. You can go with a top paired with a short or long skirt, or a top with pants.
10. Silk and Satin Dress
If you want to bring a touch of glamour to your intimate wedding, we suggest going with a satin or silk fabric dress. It is sheer, shiny, and hugs your curves the right way, making you look fabulous. You can also choose an embellished satin silk dress or pair it up with bold statement jewelry to complete the look.
11. Slip Dress
Another glamorous and sexy courthouse wedding dress idea is a slip dress. It is made up of soft silky materials. The dress can be embellished with lace and other sheer materials to make it look chic and modern. It also has a cut till your knee, but that is optional.
12. Embellished Dress
It’s your wedding, and you are allowed to wear whatever you want, even at a courthouse wedding. So if you wish to wear an embellished or sparkly dress, you should. Or, for a more minimal look, go for embellished sleeves or neck columns to keep it classy and suitable for a wedding.
Now you can see why some people prefer courthouse weddings over traditional weddings. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also give you multiple courthouse wedding dress ideas that aren’t acceptable otherwise. We hope you have a wonderful intimate wedding that doesn’t cost you a fortune.
