As a Chicago City Hall elopement photographer, I’ve seen it all—from quiet weekday vows to full-on courthouse chaos. If you’re planning your own How to Elope at Chicago City Hall “I do,” these are the most important things to know ahead of time.

While eloping at City Hall might sound simple, a few key details can make or break how smooth and stress-free your day feels—especially after recent courthouse updates.

When you book with me, I’ll walk you through exactly how to elope at Chicago City Hall so your day is intentional, calm, and deeply you.

1. Bring the right documents (and don’t forget that sneaky $10 fee)

You’ll need to bring valid photo IDs (like a driver’s license or passport), and both of you must appear together to apply for your marriage license at the Cook County Clerk’s Office. You can pay the $60 fee by cash or credit card. Once you’re officially married, there’s an extra $10 fee if you want a certified copy of your marriage certificate (which most couples do).

Pro tip: Double-check that your IDs match your legal names exactly—any discrepancies can cause delays at the counter.

(If you want to see what a full City Hall day looks like, check out Nila & Mike’s timeless Chicago City Hall Elopement.)

2. Timing matters: when to apply + how far in advance you can book

In Chicago, your marriage license is valid for 60 days, but there’s a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before you can actually get married. That means you can’t apply and marry on the same day.

Many couples pick up their license a day or two before their ceremony, but if you’re traveling in or planning a Saturday elopement, build in a buffer time – wait times are anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes.

I share a full step-by-step breakdown of this process in my exclusive City Hall Elopement Guide, which I send to all my booked couples—and they’ve absolutely loved how stress-free it makes the planning process.

So if you’re planning to elope this year or next—or even before your wedding day— now’s the time to inquire with me to make sure you’re in the best hands. My wedding collections include built-in time for both your elopement and wedding day, so you’re covered from every angle.

3. Your Chicago City Hall Elopement Appointment Sets the Tone

Ceremonies at City Hall run like clockwork, but not all time slots are created equal. Morning appointments tend to be calmer and better lit for photos, while afternoons can get crowded and rushed.

Tuesdays-Fridays don’t require an appointment but have two open time frames where as on Saturday’s an appointment is necessary and must be planned ahead of time.

4. Avoid the Busiest Times for a Chicago City Hall Elopement

The Cook County Marriage Court is especially busy around holidays and “popular” dates (think Valentine’s Day, 2/22, or any Friday before a long weekend). Summer Fridays can also feel like a wedding marathon—with couples lining the hallway, bouquets in hand, waiting for their turn.

If your schedule allows, choose a Tuesday or Wednesday ceremony for a calmer, more intimate experience. Your photos (and your nerves) will thank you.

5. Your ceremony time impacts more than just your schedule

Your chosen ceremony time affects everything from lighting to location options for portraits. For example:

• Morning ceremonies pair beautifully with post-ceremony brunches or portraits around the Loop, Riverwalk, or Art Institute Gardens.
• Afternoon ceremonies can roll right into a celebratory dinner at your favorite restaurant or rooftop.

Think about the vibe you want your day to have—and plan your photos and timeline around that. Your photographer (hi, that’s me!) can help you map out the best route for portraits that feels relaxed and effortless.

Final Thoughts

City Hall elopements are short, sweet, and full of heart. The key to making them unforgettable is planning just enough to give yourself space to breathe, enjoy, and be fully present.

If you’re envisioning a simple yet meaningful elopement day, I’ve got you covered—from navigating logistics to capturing every laugh, tear, and hand squeeze along the way.

When you book your City Hall elopement with me, you’ll also receive my exclusive Chicago City Hall Elopement Guide. It’s a detailed, easy-to-follow resource that walks you through every step and helps you make the most of your day. My couples have absolutely loved it, and I know you will to.