Seattle Courthouse Wedding Photographer
A Seattle courthouse wedding can be simple, elegant, and deeply meaningful. Whether you are keeping things intimate with just a few guests or planning a small ceremony before a bigger celebration later, the Seattle Municipal Court is a beautiful place to say “I do” without the stress of a large traditional wedding.
I’m Yari of PhotoYari Photography, a Seattle-based wedding and elopement photographer and videographer serving couples across the Pacific Northwest. I photograph Seattle Municipal Court and King County courthouse weddings with a mix of cinematic portraits and candid storytelling, so your day feels relaxed and your photos stay timeless.
Why Choose a Seattle Courthouse Wedding?
Courthouse weddings in Seattle are perfect for couples who want a meaningful ceremony without months of planning and a huge guest list.
You still get a real civil ceremony performed by a judge, time for portraits around downtown, and space to celebrate in your own way – but with less pressure and more focus on the two of you.
A Seattle courthouse wedding might be right for you if:
You want an intimate, low-stress way to get married in the heart of the city. You prefer to invest in what matters most – great photography, a special dinner, a trip, or a future party. You love the idea of modern city backdrops, historic streets, and waterfront views in your photos. You are coming from out of town and want an easy, straightforward way to get married in Seattle.
My goal as your Seattle courthouse wedding photographer is to make your day feel personal, beautiful, and well planned – never rushed or generic.
Your Seattle Courthouse Wedding Photographer & Videographer
As a Seattle courthouse wedding photographer, I know how courthouse ceremonies work, when and where the light is best, and which nearby locations give you a mix of classic city views and quiet, intimate corners.
My approach to Seattle courthouse wedding photography combines:
Natural, flattering portraits that feel elegant but never stiff or over-posed True-to-life skin tones and colors that age beautifully over time Candid storytelling of the real moments and emotions of your day Optional video coverage so you can hear your vows and relive the atmosphere of your ceremony
Whether it is just the two of you or a small group of family and friends, I will guide you gently when you need direction and step back when moments unfold naturally.
Your Seattle Courthouse Wedding Photographer & Videographer
As a Seattle courthouse wedding photographer, I know how courthouse ceremonies work, when and where the light is best, and which nearby locations give you a mix of classic city views and quiet, intimate corners.
My approach to Seattle courthouse wedding photography combines:
Natural, flattering portraits that feel elegant but never stiff or over-posed True-to-life skin tones and colors that age beautifully over time Candid storytelling of the real moments and emotions of your day Optional video coverage so you can hear your vows and relive the atmosphere of your ceremony
Whether it is just the two of you or a small group of family and friends, I will guide you gently when you need direction and step back when moments unfold naturally.
How to Get Married at the Seattle Courthouse – Step by Step
Planning a Seattle courthouse wedding is easier than it looks, especially when you understand the basic steps. Details can change, so you should always confirm the current rules on the official Seattle Municipal Court and King County websites, but this is the general process most couples follow.
Step 1 – Get Your Washington State Marriage License
To be legally married in Washington, you need a marriage license from a county office such as the King County Recorder’s Office. Most couples:
Start the application online or in person. Bring valid identification and pay the required fee. Wait through a short waiting period before the license becomes valid. Use the license within its validity window, which is typically several weeks.
Because requirements and fees can change, I always recommend checking the latest information directly on the official King County website before you lock in your date.
Step 2 – Schedule Your Seattle Municipal Court Ceremony
Judges at the Seattle Municipal Court are available to perform civil marriage ceremonies at set times on weekdays. Ceremonies are usually held in the late afternoon at the courthouse, and the court is closed on weekends and holidays. Some judges may also offer ceremonies at other locations off-site, depending on their schedule.
There are a limited number of ceremony slots and a limit on how many people can attend, including the couple and witnesses. To avoid stress, it is important to:
Submit the court’s marriage ceremony request form as early as you can. Have a backup date in mind in case your first choice is unavailable. Confirm how many guests you are allowed to bring with you.
The official Seattle Municipal Court website will always have the most up-to-date information on availability, group size and fees.
Step 3 – Plan Your Timeline and Photo Locations
Once your license and ceremony time are confirmed, we will design a simple, realistic timeline that fits your day. Together we decide:
Where we will meet before the ceremony Which parts of your day you want photographed or filmed – getting ready, first look, ceremony only, portraits, dinner, or a mix Which nearby locations you love for photos – rooftop views, historic brick streets, the waterfront, modern architecture, or a combination How to plan around traffic, parking and light so that everything feels relaxed and enjoyable
I suggest locations that match your style and comfort level and create a timeline that keeps you on track without feeling rushed.
Step 4 – Enjoy Your Day and Make It Your Own
On the day of your Seattle courthouse wedding, you will bring your marriage license, any required documents and your witnesses. The judge will perform a short civil ceremony, you will sign the paperwork and officially be married, and then we will head outside for portraits and a small adventure around the city.
From there, you can:
Keep things simple with a walk through downtown and a cozy dinner. Invite a few guests to celebrate with you at a favorite restaurant or private dining room. Plan a small reception, boat ride or rooftop drinks to end the evening.
Your courthouse wedding can be as minimal or as celebratory as you want it to be.
Elegant Seattle Courthouse Wedding Photography
Celebrate your special day with professional Seattle Courthouse Wedding Photography that captures every heartfelt moment. At PhotoYari, we specialize in documenting the beauty and intimacy of courthouse weddings in Seattle. From the emotional exchange of vows to candid moments with loved ones, we create timeless images that tell your love story.
Our approach combines natural, candid photography with elegant compositions to ensure every detail of your day is beautifully preserved. Whether you're planning a private ceremony or an intimate celebration with close family, we're here to capture it all.
Seattle Courthouse Wedding Photography – Common Questions
How do we book a Seattle courthouse wedding photographer?
A. To book PhotoYari Photography for your Seattle courthouse wedding, send your ceremony date, estimated time, and the courthouse location through our website. We’ll confirm availability and recommend the best coverage option based on your plan—whether you want just the ceremony coverage or extra time for portraits around downtown Seattle and nearby scenic spots.
How do we book a Seattle courthouse wedding photographer?
A. To book PhotoYari Photography for your Seattle courthouse wedding, send your ceremony date, estimated time, and the courthouse location through our website. We’ll confirm availability and recommend the best coverage option based on your plan—whether you want just the ceremony coverage or extra time for portraits around downtown Seattle and nearby scenic spots.
How many hours do we need for a courthouse wedding in Seattle?
A. Most Seattle courthouse weddings can be beautifully covered with a short collection, especially if you want the ceremony plus a small portrait session afterwards. If you plan multiple locations, family group photos, or a celebration after the ceremony, adding extra coverage helps keep everything relaxed and unrushed. PhotoYari Photography will help you choose the right amount of time based on your schedule and priorities.
Can you photograph guests and family group photos at a courthouse wedding?
A. Yes. PhotoYari Photography can capture family group portraits and candid moments with your guests before and after the ceremony, as long as courthouse rules allow it. We’ll also help you create a simple shot list so important group combinations are photographed efficiently without slowing down your day.
What are the best photo locations near Seattle courthouses?
A. Many couples love classic downtown Seattle backgrounds, clean architectural lines, and nearby parks or waterfront areas for portraits. PhotoYari Photography helps you choose locations based on your timeline, walking distance, weather, and the look you want—romantic city streets, modern architecture, greenery, or waterfront views.
What if it rains on our courthouse wedding day in Seattle?
A. Rain is common in Seattle, and courthouse weddings can still look incredible. PhotoYari Photography plans for weather by choosing covered portrait spots, indoor-friendly locations, and timing that works with the light. We also guide you on simple options like umbrellas that photograph beautifully and keep you comfortable.
Do you offer same-day or fast delivery for courthouse wedding photos?
A. PhotoYari Photography offers fast, reliable delivery for courthouse weddings, with clear timelines shared before you book. Because courthouse weddings are often smaller and more intimate, many couples also request a quick preview so they can share the news soon after the ceremony.
Can we add an engagement-style mini session or celebration coverage?
A. Yes. Many couples add a short mini session before or after the courthouse ceremony, or include coverage for a small reception dinner or celebration with friends and family. PhotoYari Photography can build a flexible courthouse wedding collection that includes portraits, downtown moments, and the story of your full day.
How do we reserve our date with PhotoYari Photography?
A. After we confirm availability, you reserve your courthouse wedding date with a simple online proposal, contract, and retainer. Once booked, we’ll help you plan timing, group photos, and portrait locations so your Seattle courthouse wedding feels effortless and beautifully documented.