Planning a courthouse wedding in Pittsburgh?

Having an Allegheny County Courthouse Elopement can be a romantic and intimate decision.

It’s a stunning place to say “I do.” With its grand architecture, historic charm, and intimate setting, it’s perfect for couples looking for an elegant city elopement.

As a documentary wedding photographer, I love capturing courthouse elopements.

The emotions, the excitement, and the city vibes create a romantic story that I turn into art. If you’re considering eloping at the courthouse, here’s everything you need to know to make it happen.

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Step 1: Get Your Marriage License

Before booking your courthouse wedding, you need a marriage license.

Here’s how to get one in Allegheny County:

1. Apply Online or In-Person: Start the process online here or visit the Marriage License Bureau at the City-County Building.
2. Both Partners Must Be Present: If applying in person, you and your partner must go together.
3. Bring Required Documents: Valid IDs (driver’s license or passport) and your Social Security numbers.
4. Pay the Fee: The marriage license costs around $80, payable by cash or card.
5. Wait 3 Days: Pennsylvania law requires a three-day waiting period before you can use your license.

Your marriage license is valid for 60 days, so plan accordingly!

Self-Uniting vs. Traditional Marriage License

Pennsylvania is one of the few states that allows self-uniting marriages, meaning you don’t need an officiant to legally marry. Here’s the difference between the two options:

• Traditional Marriage License: Requires an officiant (judge, minister, or justice of the peace) to perform the ceremony and sign the license.
• Self-Uniting Marriage License: No officiant is needed. The couple signs the license in front of two witnesses, making it a great option for those wanting a more private or personal experience.

Both licenses have the same application process, but a self-uniting license may require additional verification.

If you’re considering this option, be sure to mention it when applying.

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Step 2: Booking The Allegheny Courthouse for your Elopement

You have a few options for your ceremony:

• Judge’s Office Ceremony: Some judges perform wedding ceremonies in their chambers. You’ll need to call ahead and schedule a time.
• Civil Ceremony at the Courthouse: You can request a civil ceremony when applying for your license. Availability varies, so ask for details when you apply.
• Off-Site Ceremony: If you want a courthouse backdrop but a more personal experience, hire an officiant and take portraits around the city.

If you want to get in touch with them faster, you can e-mail them at: venuerentals@alleghenycounty.us or contact them at: 724-350-2528

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Why Choose the Allegheny County Courthouse?

This isn’t just any government building—it’s an architectural masterpiece.

The grand stone staircases, arched hallways, and Gothic design make it a dreamy location for photos.

After your ceremony, we can explore the courthouse for portraits before heading outside for some stunning city shots.

Downtown Pittsburgh Hotel Recommendations

If you want to be close to the courthouse and have more time for photos, staying in a downtown hotel is a great option. Here are some recommendations:

• Fairmont Pittsburgh – A luxury hotel with modern design, stunning city views, and top-notch service.
• Omni William Penn Hotel – A historic and elegant hotel with classic architecture, perfect for a romantic stay.
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh – A boutique hotel with stylish decor and a rooftop lounge for a celebratory drink.
• Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel – Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel offers incredible views of the city and rivers.
• The Industrialist Hotel – A chic and contemporary hotel with a cozy yet upscale atmosphere.

Staying downtown makes it easy to relax, get ready, and take advantage of the city’s best photo spots before or after your courthouse wedding.

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Making Your Elopement an Artistic Story

Every courthouse wedding is unique. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small gathering of loved ones, I document the moments that matter—the quiet hand squeezes, the laughter, the happy tears.

Here’s Karen and Jevon’s Summer Elopement at the Allegheny Courthouse with an Editorial focus on their photos.

My approach is editorial and documentary. That means you’ll get stunning, artistic photos that tell your love story in an authentic and timeless way.

I’ll guide you on the best spots for photos, help with natural posing, and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

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Let’s Capture Your Love Story

Eloping at the Allegheny County Courthouse is simple, intimate, and unforgettable. If you’re planning your city courthouse wedding, I’d love to be part of it.

Let’s create something beautiful together!

Get in touch to book your courthouse wedding photography session with me, Natalia Baqueiro.

If you’re interested in booking Natalia Baqueiro Photography to document your elopement and have incredible editorial photos of your story, reach out to make sure I have availability.