Courthouse Marriage Philadelphia
Getting married in Philadelphia? If you've considered a courthouse wedding, you're not alone. Many couples are drawn to the simplicity and affordability of a civil ceremony. But what if you could have all of that convenience, plus a warm, personalized experience, beautiful photos, and a little sparkle—all without the overwhelm of planning a big wedding?
Welcome to Truehart Wedding Chapel, a local gem that’s changing the way people elope or tie the knot in a small, meaningful way. In this post, we’ll break down what a courthouse wedding involves in Philly, what it doesn’t include, and why so many couples are skipping City Hall and choosing Truehart instead.
What Is a Courthouse Marriage in Philadelphia?
A courthouse marriage, or civil ceremony, is a legal wedding performed by a judge, magistrate, or authorized officiant in a government building, such as City Hall or the Family Court. It’s a no-frills way to legally marry, typically without a religious ceremony, large guest list, or elaborate planning.
Here’s what a typical process looks like:
Apply for a marriage license at the Marriage License Bureau (Room 413 City Hall).
Wait 72 hours for the required waiting period.
Schedule an appointment with an officiant or judge if available.
Bring two forms of ID and your marriage license to the ceremony.
Say your vows and sign the license in front of witnesses or an officiant.
That’s it—you’re married.
For some couples, this is exactly what they want: efficient, affordable, and quick.
But for others, something about it feels too formal, cold, or impersonal. The courtroom setting doesn’t exactly inspire romance, and photos taken under fluorescent lighting don’t always capture the moment you imagined.
That’s where Truehart Wedding Chapel comes in.
Meet Truehart Wedding Chapel
Just outside of Philadelphia in Glenside, PA, Truehart Wedding Chapel offers a unique alternative to a courthouse wedding. It’s designed for couples who want an intimate ceremony but with warmth, style, and attention to detail.
Whether you’re eloping, getting married for the second time, or just want a simple ceremony without the fuss of a traditional wedding, Truehart gives you the freedom to say “I do” your way.
It’s everything a courthouse marriage isn’t: relaxed, elegant, and completely yours.
Why People Are Looking Beyond Courthouse Weddings
Let’s be honest. Courthouse weddings work fine when you need to get legally married without much ceremony. But for many couples, that doesn’t quite tick all the boxes.
Some common issues include:
Limited appointment availability
Strict schedules and short time slots
No personalisation options (music, vows, photos)
A sterile, impersonal setting
No professional photography allowed
No time for guests or celebration afterward
Even though it’s “just a legal ceremony,” it’s still your wedding day. And you should be able to look back and remember it as something meaningful.
Why Truehart Is the Best Alternative to Courthouse Marriage
Now that we’ve looked at the limitations of City Hall weddings, here’s how Truehart Wedding Chapel transforms that same idea into something extraordinary.
1. You Still Get the Simplicity—But With Style
At Truehart, you won’t be overwhelmed with options or buried in planning. They’ve curated packages to keep it simple but beautiful. Whether you just need license signing or a full micro-wedding with guests and a toast, it’s all handled for you.
2. You Can Actually Personalise the Moment
Unlike the rigid setting of a courthouse, at Truehart you get to choose:
Your entrance song
Whether or not to exchange personal vows
If you want to walk in together or separately
What kind of photos you’d like
Whether to include a mini reception with cake and champagne
You’re not just another time slot. You’re a couple with a story, and they make space for that.
3. It Feels Warm and Relaxed
The chapel is softly lit, decorated with neutral florals, candles, and greenery. The setting feels more like a boutique venue than a sterile office. There’s no rushing, no line of couples waiting after you, and no pressure to be in and out in ten minutes.
4. Photography Is Included
Let’s face it: wedding photos matter. At Truehart, packages include digital photos taken in the beautifully curated space, so you’ll have memories that look as good as they felt.
At the courthouse, you often need to arrange your own photographer (if they allow it at all), and even then, the backdrop leaves a lot to be desired.
5. You Can Bring Guests
Most City Hall weddings limit attendance to two witnesses. At Truehart, depending on your package, you can have up to 20 guests. That means parents, siblings, friends, and even little ones can be part of your moment.
6. There’s a Reception Option, Even for Elopements
If you want to celebrate with cake, bubbly, and a toast (without renting a full venue), Truehart’s micro-wedding packages include a mini reception. It’s the perfect way to keep things small but meaningful.
Comparing Courthouse Marriage and Truehart Chapel
Feature Courthouse Marriage Truehart Wedding Chapel Cost Low Low to mid-range Availability Often limited Flexible and frequent Personalisation None High (music, vows, photos etc.) Time limit Strict Relaxed schedule Decor Minimal or none Elegant and photogenic Photography Not allowed or limited Included in packages Guests allowed Usually 2 Up to 20 (package dependent) Reception included No Yes, optional mini reception Overall atmosphere Formal, cold Warm, welcoming, and relaxed
Who Is Truehart Perfect For?
You might be considering a courthouse wedding for lots of reasons. Maybe you want to avoid the cost of a large celebration. Maybe it’s your second marriage. Maybe you’re eloping or just want something quiet.
Whatever your reason, Truehart Chapel is ideal if you’re:
A couple looking for an affordable, beautiful ceremony
Planning an elopement or small wedding
Interested in a legal ceremony with a personal feel
Wanting to include close family and friends without a full reception
LGBTQ+ and looking for an inclusive, affirming space
A pair of busy professionals wanting a stress-free option
Planning a vow renewal or commitment ceremony
Real Testimonials from Happy Couples
“We thought we just wanted something simple, but Truehart made it feel so special without being over the top. The space was beautiful, the photos were stunning, and everything was relaxed.”
– Rachel & Amir
“We had originally booked a courthouse appointment but couldn’t get a slot in time. Found Truehart and honestly, it turned out to be way better than we expected. We had music, vows, and even a little toast afterward.”
– Liz and Sam
“We had a small group of family with us and it felt so intimate and genuine. Couldn’t have asked for more.”
– Jenna and Rob
How It Works at Truehart
1. Choose your package
Options range from license signings to full micro weddings with all the trimmings.
2. Book your date and time
You can often schedule within a week if you already have your license.
3. Get your marriage license
Apply at Philadelphia City Hall or your local county office.
4. Show up, say “I do,” and celebrate
Truehart handles the rest. No stress, just smiles.
Packages
No Ceremony Option
Legal license signing
5–10 digital photos
Great for those who want it quick but still meaningful
Elopement Package
Ceremony with officiant
Bouquet and boutonniere to borrow
20–30 digital photos
Music and vow customisation
Micro Wedding Package
Ceremony with up to 20 guests
Decor, flowers, cake, champagne toast
Professional photography
Light bites and refreshments
Still Want That Courthouse Feeling?
Some couples like the formality of a courthouse but want a bit more personal flair. Truehart can strike that balance. You can still keep things minimalist while enjoying:
A better setting
More flexibility
Keepsake memories
Kind, understanding staff
A ceremony that feels like it’s truly yours
A courthouse wedding in Philadelphia is a great option if you're on a tight budget or need a fast legal ceremony. But if you're looking for something just as simple but a lot more special, Truehart Wedding Chapel offers the best of both worlds.
It gives you a beautiful space, meaningful moments, and a team who genuinely cares—without the pressure, cost, or fuss of a traditional wedding. You’ll still get that low-key feel you want, just with more warmth and a whole lot more joy.
So before you book your spot at City Hall, consider giving Truehart a call. You might be surprised at how much more memorable your wedding day can be.
Contact Information
📍 Address
Truehart Wedding Chapel
2800 Limekiln Pike
Glenside, PA 19038
📞 Phone
(215) 394-0067 (Text Preferred)
🌐 Website
www.truehartweddingchapel.com
