Editorial Courthouse Wedding Grand Rapids MI

Let’s put one misconception to bed for good: just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean it has to feel small. And it definitely doesn’t mean you have to skip out on the moments that matter most! Natalie and Cali’s Kent courthouse wedding was proof that intimate elopements and civil ceremonies can still be full of intention, personality, and joy. From florals to family, formal portraits to spontaneous sidewalk laughs—it had everything that makes a wedding day meaningful. The only thing it lacked was the stress of a packed timeline of a traditional venue.

Personalizing Your Courthouse Wedding Grand Rapids MI

Wedding days, no matter your vibe, are deeply personal. They should reflect the two of you as a couple, not a Pinterest checklist or someone else’s tradition. That’s why I’m so passionate about elopements! If you’re a more low-key couple who wants to avoid the stress, logistics, and strict scheduling that come with traditional weddings, courthouse elopements are an incredible option.

You still get to wear something that makes you feel amazing and carry the florals of your dreams. (Note the dreamy bouquet with all of its pops of purple, yellow, and pink). You can still bring your people. And yes, you can still throw a fun party after! One of my recent couples even rented out a dive bar for cake, dancing, and a casual reception with their crew. Whether it’s dinner with your closest friends or a full-on dance floor, your elopement can be as simple or elaborate as you want it to be. I’m here for all of it.

Grand Rapids Courthouse Wedding Day Timeline

When Natalie and Cali reached out, they already had their ceremony appointment booked, but they didn’t need to worry about anything else. I’ve done so many courthouse elopements here in Grand Rapids that I’ve got it down to a science! (And seriously, I never get tired of these!)

We started their day with photos outside the Grand Rapids Art Museum, then walked through downtown together toward the courthouse, stopping along the way to take portraits with clean lines, soft light, and editorial-style vibes. The schedule was relaxed, the energy was easy,  and the whole day was about them.

Kent Courthouse Wedding Photos

Inside the courthouse, I captured some of my favorite moments. From getting their paperwork at the clerk’s window to laughing before exchanging vows in the courtroom, I got it all. The best part? This was the first time both of their families had ever met. It added this beautiful layer of meaning to the whole day, and you could feel the love in the room. And they got to soak it all in without any added pressure.  Like I said, I never tire of these ceremonies!

Planning a Kent Courthouse Wedding

If you’re considering your own Grand Rapids courthouse elopement, there are a few things you should know ahead of time. First & foremost, ceremonies are only performed on Friday afternoons. You’ll need an appointment in advance, too. This isn’t a “walk in and wing it” situation. Appointments can fill quickly, so be sure to call early and lock in your date!

A lot of my clients ask if they’re allowed to invite more than just witnesses, and the answer is YES! There’s no limit on guests. Seriously! Bring your people. Bring your photographer. The judge is going to be thrilled—because this is probably the happiest thing they’ll see all day. The staff at the Kent County Circuit Court are always kind and helpful, and I’m more than happy to walk you through the full process so you don’t have to stress about logistics. You don’t have to know how to elope. That’s my job.

Grand Rapids Elopement Photographer

If you’re thinking about a courthouse wedding but don’t know where to start—I’ve got you! Hey, I’m Anika, a Michigan elopement photographer who loves a good courthouse ceremony. Whether you’ve already booked your date or you’re just in the “what even is an elopement?” phase, I’ll walk you through it all. We’ll talk timing, locations, outfits, vendors, and all the little details that’ll make the day feel like yours. We’ll wrap things up with a gallery of your big day that feels uniquely you with lots of cinematic and editorial touches. Does this sound like your vibe? You can check out my elopement packages here.
Reach out here and let’s start planning your perfect no-stress wedding day.