If you’re reading this, you probably decided (or are on the fence about…) ditching the bigger weddings and planning making your San Diego Courthouse wedding appointment. Congratulations! As a documentary photographer who has documented dozens of courthouse wedding days, I can tell you that courthouse weddings are some of the most romantic, intentional, and low-stress days.

The best part is that the celebrations only begin at the courthouse – many couples choose to make a full day of it, like Paul and Emily who celebrated at Balboa Park and then Windansea Beach.

You’re in the right place to plan your day! If you are trying to secure a San Diego courthouse wedding appointment, you need to know the right timing to make sure you get the date and location you actually want. Here is your 2026 guide to making it official!

1. Understanding the Two-Step San Diego Courthouse Wedding Appointment Process

To legally marry in California, you need two things: a Marriage License and a Civil Ceremony.

• The License: This is the legal paperwork. Don’t forget your ID!! It’s all you need. And a credit card or cash.
• The Ceremony: This is the actual “I do” moment with an officiant.
• Pro Tip: You can book these as two separate appointments, but I highly recommend booking them as a “license and ceremony” combo to save yourself an extra trip to the County Clerk.

2. When to Book Your Appointment

San Diego courthouse wedding appointments open up on a rolling 7-week basis. Because popular dates (especially Fridays) fill up almost instantly, you’ll want to be ready to book exactly 7 weeks out from your desired date.

• The Website: You must book through the San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk portal linked here.

3. Choosing Your San Diego Courthouse Wedding Appointment Location: Indoor vs. The Hut

San Diego is unique because it offers a beautiful outdoor waterfront option! There are also many options around San Diego County.

• The Marriage Hut (Waterfront Park): This is the iconic outdoor structure with the San Diego Bay in the background. If you’re wanting to invite many guests, you can go for it – there’s unlimited guest count, as the lawn is a public park! Dogs are also welcome (and encouraged if you ask me).
• Indoor Ceremonies: Located inside the historic County Administration Building. These are classic, timeless, and for some couples preferable to have more privacy.
• Satellite Offices: There are also many other locations to have your wedding! Here’s another blog I have about the different locations. Santee location is my fave for mountain vibes and very modern architecture. So basically the exact opposite of the downtown location.

4. What to Bring (The Don’t Forget List)

• Valid Photo IDs: You both need government-issued identification.
• One Witness: Required for public licenses. (If you’re eloping solo, I’m always happy to be your legal witness!)
• The Details: Just because you’re having a courthouse wedding doesn’t mean you have to miss any traditions you want! The champagne, bouquet(s), something blue, you name it. I am also happy to help coordinate and/or bring any important pieces of your day!

5. Documenting the Story

Obviously I am biased, but just because the ceremony is “simple” doesn’t mean your day is any less deserving of stunning photos. My Essential Courthouse Package is designed specifically for these 1.5-hour sessions if you simply want coverage of the actual marriage and a few photos after it. We capture the arrival, the license signing, the “I dos,” and hportraits around the waterfront (or any location you pick).

Ready to book your photographer? I handle the logistics – from appointment timing to where to grab the best celebratory drink after – so you can just show up and be present.

Click here to see my 2026 Courthouse Packages and book your date!