A courthouse wedding in Boise, Idaho, is a fantastic way to celebrate your love with simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of the capitol building or prefer a more intimate setting, a courthouse wedding offers a beautiful backdrop for your vows. In this guide, we’ll explore why a courthouse wedding can be the perfect choice for you, how to plan one, what to wear, and how to make your day uniquely yours. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to get married; what matters most is making the day special and meaningful. That’s where I come in—to ensure your courthouse wedding is memorable and beautifully captured. If you’re on the fence between eloping or having a courthouse wedding check out my guide on how to elope in Boise to see if that’s for you instead!

Why Have a Courthouse Wedding?

Simplicity and Affordability

A courthouse wedding is often more budget-friendly than a traditional wedding, allowing you to allocate your resources towards what matters most to you. With fewer logistical concerns, you can focus on the joy of your commitment.

Intimate and Personal

Courthouse weddings are intimate, offering a private setting for your vows. This simplicity allows for a personal experience, making each moment feel special and significant. It’s important to treat this day as a core memory, not just a procedural step. Having a photographer present to capture these intimate moments ensures that every detail is preserved beautifully.

Historic Charm

The Ada County Courthouse, with its beautiful architecture, provides a charming backdrop for your ceremony and photos. The historic capitol building adds an extra layer of elegance and significance to your day. Having a Boise courthouse wedding allows you to bring the city vibes into your day while still giving you the flexibility of an elopement.

How to Have a Courthouse Wedding in Boise

Step 1: Obtain Your Marriage License

Before your wedding, obtain a marriage license from the Ada County Recorder’s Office. Both parties must be present, and you’ll need to provide identification and pay a fee. No blood tests or waiting periods are required in Idaho. Click here to apply online.

Step 2: Schedule Your Ceremony

After securing your marriage license, schedule your ceremony with the Ada County Courthouse. Booking your date in advance is crucial, especially during peak times. A photographer will capture the ceremony, ensuring every significant moment is beautifully documented. Click here to get the email to make your appointment.

Step 3: Plan Your Day

A courthouse wedding doesn’t have to be just a quick ceremony. You can create a day full of special moments. Start with getting ready photos at your home, an Airbnb, or a hotel. After the ceremony, consider celebrating with a scenic picnic featuring a to-go meal from one of Boise’s great spots. For a unique twist, you might end the night with a memorable bucket list activity that adds a personal touch to your special day.

What to Wear for Your Courthouse Wedding

Dress Code: Anything Goes

Your courthouse wedding attire can be as casual or formal as you desire. The flexibility of a courthouse wedding means you can wear what makes you feel most confident and comfortable.

Outfit Ideas

• Dresses: Choose from a classic white dress, a chic jumpsuit, or a colorful ensemble that reflects your style.
• Suits: Opt for a traditional suit, a more relaxed blazer and chinos, or a stylish shirt and dress pants.
• Jumpsuits: A modern and comfortable option that adds a unique flair.
• Casual Attire: Wear what makes you feel good and suits your personality.

Where to Shop Local

• Margene’s Bridal: Known for its stunning bridal gowns.
• B.B. Bridal Boutique: Offers a variety of bridal and formal wear.
• Sweetheart Manor: Personalized service with beautiful options.
• Bespoke Custom Suits: For tailored, custom-fit suits.
• Boise Tuxedo Shop: Great for suit rentals and purchases.

What Else Should You Plan for Your Wedding Day

Your courthouse wedding day can be filled with wonderful activities that reflect your personalities and love story. Here are some ideas to make your day special:

Create a Memorable Morning

Start your day with a relaxed morning, enjoying coffee from your favorite local shop. Getting ready together and savoring these moments helps to make the day feel special and personalized. Here are some great coffee shops to consider:

• Certified Kitchen and Bakery: A cozy spot known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
• Janjou Pâtisserie: Offers a selection of exquisite French baked goods perfect for a special morning treat.
• Sunshine Spice Bakery & Café: Known for its warm atmosphere and unique, flavorful coffee options.
• Alchemist Coffee: A trendy coffee shop with expertly crafted beverages and a relaxed vibe.

Plan a Fun Post-Ceremony Activity

After the ceremony, consider celebrating with a variety of activities that capture your unique style:

Grab a meal to-go for a scenic picnic:

• The Wylder: Known for its artisan pizzas and gourmet sandwiches.
• Idaho Pizza: A local favorite offering a range of delicious pizza options.
• The Basque Market: Perfect for grabbing a selection of Basque-style tapas and snacks.
• Wyld Child: Offers creative and fresh picnic-perfect meals.
• Bodega Boise: Known for its tasty sandwiches and convenient grab-and-go options.

Enjoy drinks at your favorite bar:

• The Royal: A classic bar with a relaxed atmosphere and great cocktails.
• Pengilly Saloon: Known for its historic vibe and extensive drink menu.
• Water Bear Bar: Offers a unique selection of craft cocktails in a chic setting.
• Spacebar Arcade: Combines vintage arcade games with a great selection of beers and cocktails.

Include your family in the celebration (optional):

If you want to include family, set aside time for family photos to capture these precious memories. If you prefer the day to be just the two of you, that’s perfect too!

Keep things casual:

Boise is known for its outdoor recreation. Consider these laid-back activities for a relaxed post-ceremony celebration:

• Ride your bikes around downtown Boise.
• Take a stroll in the park.
• Include your pets in the fun.
• Dance under the stars.
• Fly kites or release paper lanterns.

Treat Yourself

Treat yourselves to a fancy dinner and dessert, or keep it casual and hang back with your pets. Consider these dine-in options for a special treat:

• Percy: A fine dining restaurant offering an elegant menu with a modern twist.
• Bacquet’s French Restaurant: A charming spot known for its authentic French cuisine and romantic ambiance.
• Lock Stock & Barrel: A Boise staple serving hearty steaks and seafood in a cozy setting.
• Little Pearl Oyster Bar: Offers a refined dining experience with fresh oysters and seafood dishes.
• Leku Ona: A Basque restaurant known for its traditional dishes and welcoming atmosphere.

Plan a Bucket List Activity for a unique experience, consider a bucket list activity like:

• Horseback riding: Explore Boise’s beautiful landscapes from horseback for an unforgettable adventure.
• Hot air balloon ride: Enjoy breathtaking views of Boise from the sky, creating a truly memorable experience.
• Drive-in theater: Add a nostalgic twist to your day by watching a movie under the stars at a drive-in theater.

Having a photographer present will capture these fun and personal moments, making your day truly unforgettable. If you’d like more ideas on how to spend your day check out my guide on 10 ideas for a unique and customized celebration!

Where to Stay

Make your courthouse wedding a memorable vacation or staycation with a special place to stay in downtown Boise. Here are some fantastic hotel options in Boise that are not only perfect for a comfortable stay but also aesthetic for capturing beautiful photos:

• Hotel 43: A stylish, contemporary hotel in downtown Boise, offering a chic atmosphere that’s perfect for capturing elegant photos and making your stay special.
• Inn at 500 Capitol: Known for its modern amenities and personalized service, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations and a refined aesthetic ideal for capturing beautiful moments.
• Modern Hotel: A trendy boutique hotel with a unique design and relaxed atmosphere, making it a fantastic backdrop for stylish photos and a memorable stay.
• Hotel Renegade: A sleek and modern option with a vibrant atmosphere, adding excitement and visual appeal to your photos and stay.
• The Grove Hotel: For a touch of luxury, this hotel provides top-notch amenities and elegant settings, perfect for both relaxation and stunning photo opportunities.
• Cabana Inn: Offers a cozy, laid-back vibe that’s great for a relaxed stay and captures a charming, intimate aesthetic in your photos.
• The Avery Hotel: A boutique experience with a charming atmosphere, providing a quaint and visually appealing backdrop for your photo sessions and a delightful stay.

Treat yourself to a memorable experience with accommodations that are both visually stunning and perfect for capturing every moment of your courthouse wedding. A photographer can ensure that your stay and special day are beautifully documented, adding another layer of magic to your celebration.

About Me: Your Photographer and Planner

I’m here to help you plan every detail of your courthouse wedding, ensuring that your day is as special and unique as your love story. From finding the perfect attire to planning memorable activities, I’ll work with you to create a day that’s a perfect reflection of who you are. Having a photographer on hand ensures that every moment, from getting ready to celebrating with loved ones, is beautifully captured. Let’s make your courthouse wedding more than just a procedural step—let’s make it a core memory that you’ll cherish forever.

A Boise courthouse wedding can be a deeply meaningful and beautifully simple way to celebrate your love. By adding personal touches and planning thoughtfully, you can transform it into a day that’s uniquely yours. This guide is designed to help you see your courthouse wedding as more than just “getting it over with”—it’s a chance to create lasting memories.

If you need help planning or capturing your courthouse wedding, I’m here to ensure that your day is as special and magical as your love story. Take a look at my Idaho elopement packages and pricing here, but know that we can absolutely create a custom package for you too. Then when you’re ready to start the fun, fill out my contact form here (don’t be shy—give me all the deets!), and we’ll make some magic together!