How to Book a Wedding at the Tarrant County Courthouse in Fort Worth, Texas
(A bride + photographer’s guide)
The Tarrant County Courthouse will always be near and dear to me. Not only have I had the honor of photographing “I do’s” here over and over again… I’ve also been a bride here myself. So I know this place from both sides—what it feels like, what can catch you off guard, and what you’ll want to plan ahead so your day feels calm, meaningful, and memorable.
So let’s start with the #1 question I get....
“How do I book a wedding at the courthouse?!”
Courthouse weddings can be a little tricky, not because you’re doing anything wrong, but because this is a working courthouse. Court business comes first, schedules can shift, and appointments aren’t always as straightforward as a typical venue.
Step 1: Call a few weeks before your desired date
For ceremonies through Tarrant County Justice of the Peace Court 1, Tarrant County instructs couples to call to schedule an appointment, and in-person ceremonies are held only Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Because the courthouse prioritizes court cases, you may not be guaranteed the exact date/time you’re dreaming of—so I typically recommend calling about 3–4 weeks before your ideal date to see what they have available. Fridays tend to be a popular day (so flexibility helps).
Step 2: Make sure you’re calling the correct courthouse
If you’re picturing the iconic historic courthouse most people want photos at, it’s commonly listed as: Tarrant County Courthouse (1895 “Old Courthouse”) located at 100 W. Weatherford St., Fort Worth, TX
And a starting point for getting booked is callinf the county operator: 817-884-1111 
(Friendly reminder: this is a busy courthouse. Be kind, patient and prepared when you call.)
Once you’re booked… here’s what’s next
Security + Entrance
Expect “TSA-style” security, and arrive early....When you enter the courthouse, you’ll go through a security screening with metal detectors (and you will need to empty pockets/remove items). Even though it’s usually quick, I always encourage couples to arrive at least 30 minutes early so you can get through security, regroup and make sure you have everything you need, and head on over to the TOP floor!
Check in + wait to be called
After security, you’ll head to the area where you’ll check in for your wedding, then you’ll wait to be called (some days there may be other couples ahead of you…and more after you). The courthouse has specific behavior rules while waiting because other courts may be in session—quiet voices, no loud celebration inside until you’re outside. If you book with me: I’ll guide you exactly where to go and help the whole experience feel less stressful...Bonus we will get some indoor portraits done while you wait! The architecture is stunning, and it’s such a sweet way to document the full experience, not just the ceremony moment.
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What to bring (this matters!)
Bring $100 cash - JP Court 1 lists the wedding ceremony fee as $100 (cash only). If you don’t bring cash, it can completely derail your day...so I always tell couples: put it in an envelope the night before.
Bring your marriage license (and time it right) - You’ll need your marriage license for your ceremony. There is a 72-hour waiting period after the license is issued before you can get married (with certain exceptions) & Your ceremony must happen within 90 days of issuance. (Plan accordingly—this timing trips up a lot of couples.)
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Guest & Family planning
Since ceremonies are typically weekdays during business hours, make sure you tell friends and family as soon as you have a date so they can plan time off and travel. Guest limits can vary depending on the court/space. The Tarrant County JP pages list limits (example: 25 guests in one court’s guidelines). So make sure when you call to schedule, ask: “What’s the current guest limit for ceremonies?”
How to capture your courthouse wedding beautifully...
This building is stunning, a mix of beautiful architecture and real meaning. But here’s the reality: lighting inside can be dim, and the pace can move quickly. That’s why I always recommend hiring a photographer who is experienced with:
- low-light indoor situations
- busy public spaces
- fast-moving ceremonies
- familiar with the area & courthouse
Best time of day (my honest recommendation) If possible, I usually recommend either, earlier in the morning to beat crowds, or 2–4 p.m. when the light is often best inside and outside for portraits.
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How much photography coverage do you need?
Here’s what I typically recommend based on how courthouse days actually flow:
- 1 hour is best if it’s just the two of you (or a very small group) and you want:
- ceremony coverage
- a quick set of portraits right after
- 1.5 hours (my “fuller story” favorite)...If you want your day to feel less rushed—and you want time for:
- ceremony
- family photos
- indoor + outdoor portraits
- breathing room so you can actually enjoy it
- 2 hours (my top recommendation for larger groups + a “full story”) is best for: larger groups, more family photos, and the full experience, this is ideal if you want:
- ceremony coverage
- organized group + family photos
- indoor courthouse portraits and outdoor courthouse portraits
- extra time to walk to a second location nearby—like exploring Sundance Square for hidden alleyways, elegant architecture, murals and that iconic Fort Worth vibe
If you’re interested in my courthouse work, you can view my packages OR submit an inquiry for more information.
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After the ceremony: Sundance Square + hidden gems
One of the best parts about a Tarrant County Courthouse wedding is what happens after you’re officially married.
Just a short walk away is Sundance Square, full of incredible culinary spots for a celebratory lunch/dinner—and it’s also packed with portrait locations: hidden alleyways, elegant architecture, western murals, and iconic Fort Worth moments that make your gallery feel like Fort Worth.
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Final reminder from someone who was a bride here once:
A courthouse wedding can be simple… but it doesn’t have to feel small. With the right planning (and the right documentation), it becomes one of the most meaningful wedding days you’ll ever have!
Interested in working with me?
If you’re interested in working with me, please submit an inquiry through the button below so I can check availability and send you the full details. All of my intimate wedding packages start at $550. I can’t wait to hear about your date and vision!
