How to Plan a Anchorage Courthouse Wedding
An Anchorage courthouse wedding may not be the first thing that comes to mind when envisioning your dream celebration, but it’s a practical and straightforward choice that can be a perfect fit for some couples. However, it’s a great idea to explore all your options to ensure that your wedding day aligns with what you and your partner both envision. If you’re exploring ideas or would like to know how to get married at the Anchorage Courthouse, this post is for you!
Intimate Anchorage Courthouse Ceremony:
Anchorage’s courthouse offers a simple and fuss-free option for couples seeking an intimate and no-frills wedding. It’s perfect for those who value efficiency and a legal union without any extravagance. If this resonates with you, the courthouse might be the way to go. We love providing photography and floral packages for couples who prefer this choice. If you’d like to explore an alternative to the Courthouse wedding but still keep things minimal and easy, then our Anchorage Elopement Package might be an ideal fit.
Legal Requirements:
If you’re considering an Anchorage courthouse wedding, these are the instructions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process:
- Obtain a Alaska Marriage License:
- Secure a marriage license at your local Alaska courthouse or by printing the application and having it notarized by any public notary. Submit the completed application, along with the $60 application fee, by mail or dropping it off at the Courthouse or The Vital Records Office.
- There’s a three-day waiting period between receiving your marriage license and the wedding ceremony, so make sure to plan accordingly.
- Your marriage license is valid for up to three months from the date of issue.
- Here is a post explaining the full requirements and instructions for an Alaska Marriage License.
Planning Your Anchorage Courthouse Wedding:
- Choose a Date and Time:
- Contact the Anchorage Courthouse to schedule a wedding ceremony. They will provide you with available dates and times.
- Officiant:
- The courthouse typically provides a magistrate or justice of the peace to officiate your wedding. Alternatively, you can arrange for your own registered officiant.
- Witnesses:
- You’ll need one witness to attend your ceremony (Alaska just recently changed this, it used to be two). This can be your photographer, a friend, family member, or courthouse staff if available.
- Ceremony Details:
- Courthouse weddings are known for their simplicity. The ceremony usually takes place in a small, dedicated room or office within the courthouse. A photographer and small number of guests are welcome to join. Arrive on time and dressed in your chosen wedding attire.
- Marriage Certificate:
- After the ceremony, your officiant will sign the marriage license. You, your partner, and your witnesses will also need to sign it. This document serves as your marriage certificate.
- Filing Your Marriage License:
- Ensure that your marriage license is properly filed with the courthouse. The courthouse staff will guide you through this process.
- Celebrate Your Union:
- After your Anchorage courthouse wedding, you can plan a private celebration with friends and family or enjoy a romantic moment just for the two of you.
Anchorage Courthouse Wedding Alternatives:
If you’re not sure about a courthouse wedding and you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of Alaska and want your wedding to be a reflection of this, consider outdoor options. Alaska is full of beautiful choices, and you can keep it simple and stay in Anchorage or go anywhere you’d like.
Anchorage Elopement:
At Outland Events, we believe in creating celebrations that are a true reflection of your love story and individual style. Whether you envision a courthouse wedding, an intimate ceremony in a park, or a modern elopement downtown, we would love to be a part of it. For local Anchorage events we offer small packages that include light planning assistance, photography coverage, and florals. It’s perfect for those who already know what they want and just need a trusted team to facilitate their ceremony and create space to make it intimate, special, and feel natural to you both. If you have a location in mind, we’ll come to you! If not, we’re happy to make suggestions. If you want inspiration, check out this micro wedding in a park. Our photographer got legally married in a local bar before her destination wedding, there really are no rules!
In the end, the choice between an Anchorage courthouse wedding and a more customized celebration in the Alaskan wilderness depends on your unique preferences and priorities. At Outland Events, we are here to assist you in crafting the wedding experience that best suits you and your partner, no matter what it looks like. Let’s explore the possibilities and make your wedding day simply, uniquely, yours.
Contact us to get started planning your day!
