Courthouse Wedding Philadelphia
A Practical and Beautiful Choice for Modern Couples
Philadelphia Courthouse Weddings: The Simplicity of Saying “I Do” with Heart
Not every wedding needs to come with an extravagant price tag, hundreds of guests, and months of planning. For couples who value simplicity, intimacy, and intention, a courthouse wedding in Philadelphia offers an elegant, low-stress way to tie the knot. Whether you’re planning a private union or just want to skip the chaos of a traditional ceremony, this guide walks you through everything you need to know—and why Truehart Wedding Chapel offers an even better courthouse-style experience.
Why Choose a Courthouse Wedding in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is steeped in history, charm, and romance. From its cobblestone streets and historic buildings to its vibrant arts and culture scene, it's no wonder so many couples choose this city to say their vows.
A courthouse wedding appeals to those who want:
A legal and meaningful ceremony without the fuss.
To avoid high costs associated with large weddings.
A short timeline between engagement and marriage.
A way to celebrate love privately before (or instead of) a larger reception.
Most courthouse weddings in Philadelphia take place at City Hall, located right in the heart of the city. The majestic architecture alone makes it feel ceremonial without having to add anything extra.
Planning a Courthouse Wedding: Step-by-Step
Apply for a Marriage License
Couples must apply in person at the Marriage License Bureau inside Philadelphia’s City Hall. Bring identification and $90 (fee may change). Note there’s a mandatory 3-day waiting period.Choose Your Courthouse Officiant
Either hire a judge or use a certified officiant who’s registered to conduct weddings in Pennsylvania.Make an Appointment
While walk-ins were once accepted, many courts now require appointments—especially since the pandemic.Dress However You Like
Whether it's a chic white jumpsuit or jeans and a leather jacket, there’s no formal dress code. That’s the beauty of it.Invite a Few Guests or Keep It Just You Two
Most courtrooms have space for just a few witnesses or loved ones. The intimacy is part of the appeal.Add a Photographer
Capture those first newlywed moments. There’s no rule saying courthouse weddings can’t be documented with style.
The Drawbacks of a Courthouse Wedding in Philadelphia
As romantic and straightforward as courthouse weddings can be, they aren’t always perfect.
Limited Time Slots – Weekday hours only, and some courts are fully booked months out.
Restricted Guest List – If you want more than a handful of guests, the courthouse may not allow it.
No Personalisation – The ceremony is quick, and there’s little room for special readings, vows, or personal touches.
No Decorations, Music or Refreshments – Don’t expect floral arrangements, seating décor, or champagne toasts.
Lack of Flexibility – Courthouse weddings don’t offer much in terms of adjusting times or venue settings.
A Better Alternative: Truehart Wedding Chapel
Now, imagine a setting that gives you all the advantages of a courthouse wedding—affordability, intimacy, and convenience—but with a lot more charm, flexibility, and warmth. That’s what you’ll find at Truehart Wedding Chapel, located in Glenside, just a short drive from central Philadelphia.
Here’s why more couples are choosing Truehart instead of the courthouse:
A More Personal Ceremony
Unlike the rushed, matter-of-fact feel of some courthouse weddings, ceremonies at Truehart feel sacred, heartfelt, and designed with the couple in mind. Whether you're exchanging traditional vows or something you wrote yourselves, you're given time and space to truly mark the moment.All-Inclusive Packages
At Truehart, your wedding isn’t just about signing papers—it’s a curated experience. Packages include:A licensed officiant to perform your ceremony
Use of the beautifully designed chapel
Digital photography (5 to 100+ images depending on your package)
Music playlist of your choice
Mini reception (optional)
Champagne toast or light bites (optional)
Ceremony coordination
Ideal for Last-Minute Weddings
Can’t wait to say “I do”? Truehart offers short-notice bookings and weekday or weekend availability. You can even book elopements or “paperwork-only” ceremonies with minimal planning.Space for Loved Ones
While courthouse weddings restrict your guest list, Truehart can accommodate up to 24 people, giving you more freedom to share the moment with those who matter most.A Stunning Backdrop for Photos
Forget fluorescent courtroom lighting—Truehart’s interiors are elegant, warm, and made for memorable photos. Their professional photography service ensures your big day is beautifully captured.No Hidden Fees
With transparent pricing starting at just $399, you know exactly what you’re getting. You can even customize packages based on your budget and needs.
Truehart Wedding Chapel vs Philadelphia Courthouse
Feature Courthouse Wedding Truehart Wedding Chapel Cost $90+ (license only) Packages from $399 Guests Allowed Usually 2-4 Up to 24 guests Customisation Very limited Fully customisable Photography BYO or not allowed Included in most packages Decor & Setting Plain Elegant, photo-ready Availability Weekdays only 7 days a week Celebration Not allowed Mini-reception available
Courthouse Wedding Vibes with a Touch of Truehart
A courthouse wedding in Philadelphia is a lovely choice for couples looking to simplify their wedding day. But if you want to retain that simplicity while making the experience feel just a little more special, Truehart Wedding Chapel is the perfect alternative.
With affordable packages, beautiful settings, and a warm, experienced team, Truehart ensures your ceremony is memorable, personal, and stress-free—exactly how your wedding should feel.
Contact Details
📍 Address: 2800 Limekiln Pike, Glenside, PA 19038
📞 Phone: (215) 394-0067
🌐 Website: www.truehartweddingchapel.com
📸 Instagram: @truehartweddingchapel
