20 Personalized City Hall Wedding Ideas

Traditional weddings aren't for everyone. Luckily, you don't need to stress over planning (or budgeting for!) a formal ceremony and reception to have a magical "I do" moment. A city hall celebration, for example, offers a lot of pros. The intimate setting allows you to personalize your nuptials in ways that a larger wedding wouldn't, resulting in a celebration that's a reflection of you and your fiancé. Isn't that what your wedding should really be about, anyway? Plus, city halls often make beautiful big-day backdrops. More often than not, these buildings feature historic architecture—which means beautiful wedding portraits, as well as a charming ceremony atmosphere, are virtually guaranteed.

If you associate city hall weddings only with elopements, think again. While plenty of couples do elope at city halls, these nuptials can be thoughtful and curated—like any wedding—and offer plenty of romance. There are many ways to make this ceremony type feel elevated, starting with your fashion choices. Take this couple, for example. The bride sported a traditional Jenny Yoo wedding dress for her big day, which she styled with Valentino heels and a colorful bouquet by Studio Choo. Having these classic elements made the couple's city hall celebration feel extra special—and helped the woman of the hour feel decidedly bridal in a less formal setting.

Beyond your attire, there are so many ways to put together a refined city hall wedding. Ahead you'll see how couples put their spin on their small-scale services with announcement stationery, signs, and even getaway cars. Each duo prioritized their love as they celebrated their elopements and intimate celebrations—and you can, too.