A Perfectly Simple Wedding at DuPage County Courthouse: The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to getting married, not every couple dreams of extravagant venues, over-the-top celebrations, or a lengthy guest list. For many, a simple, meaningful wedding ceremony that focuses on what really matters—the bond between two people—is the perfect way to say “I do.” If you’re looking for a low-key, affordable, and stress-free option, a wedding at DuPage County Courthouse in Wheaton, Illinois, might be just what you need.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to have a perfectly simple and unforgettable wedding at DuPage County Courthouse.

Why Choose DuPage County Courthouse for Your Wedding?

1. A Simple, No-Fuss Ceremony

A courthouse wedding focuses on the essentials: the vows, the commitment, and the joy of starting a new life together. With a DuPage County Courthouse wedding, you can skip the months of planning, complicated logistics, and expensive vendors. It’s a streamlined and meaningful way to mark the beginning of your marriage.

2. Affordability

One of the most appealing aspects of a courthouse wedding is the cost. Traditional weddings often come with hefty price tags for venue rentals, catering, decorations, and more. At DuPage County Courthouse, you’re only paying for the essentials—a marriage license and the officiant’s fee—making it a budget-friendly option for couples who want to save money or avoid the financial stress of a large wedding.

3. Convenient Location

The DuPage County Courthouse is centrally located in Wheaton, Illinois, and is easily accessible from nearby cities like Naperville, Oak Brook, and even Chicago. Whether you're from out of town or a local resident, the courthouse offers a convenient location for your wedding without the hassle of long-distance travel or finding a venue.

4. Intimate and Personal

At DuPage County Courthouse, you can have a more intimate wedding with just a few family members and friends. No large guest list means you can focus on the people who matter most. Plus, the quiet, dignified atmosphere of the courthouse ensures that your ceremony will feel personal and meaningful.

What to Expect on Your Wedding Day at DuPage County Courthouse

The Ceremony: Short, Sweet, and Special

Your ceremony will be short and sweet—typically around 15 minutes—but it will still carry all the weight of any other wedding. An officiant (often a judge) will guide you through your vows, exchange rings, and pronounce you married. The courthouse offers a serene setting, with a simple yet elegant ceremony room that allows you to focus entirely on each other.

The Officiant: A Judge with a Personal Touch

DuPage County Courthouse employs experienced judges who are authorized to perform wedding ceremonies. While they’ll conduct a formal ceremony, many judges add a personal touch with a few words of wisdom. It’s a professional yet warm experience that feels both official and heartfelt.

Guests: Small and Intimate

You’ll typically be allowed to invite a few guests to witness your ceremony, and while the courthouse doesn’t have a lot of space, the intimate setting makes for a memorable experience. Most couples choose to invite just a few close family members or friends, making it a small, cozy gathering that focuses on the meaning of the day.

Steps to Get Married at DuPage County Courthouse

1. Apply for a Marriage License

Before the big day, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from the DuPage County Clerk’s office. The process is straightforward—simply bring a valid photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) and pay a small fee. The marriage license is valid immediately, so you can get married as soon as you have it in hand. Be sure to check any specific requirements ahead of time.

2. Schedule Your Ceremony

Once you have your marriage license, it’s time to schedule the wedding. The DuPage County Courthouse offers a few set times each day for ceremonies, but availability can vary. It’s best to contact the courthouse well in advance to book your ceremony. Typically, the courthouse performs weddings Monday through Friday during regular business hours, though weekend ceremonies may also be available.

3. Bring Your Witnesses

Illinois law requires that you have at least one witness present during your ceremony, though many couples opt to bring two. Your witnesses must be over the age of 18 and can be family members, friends, or even other couples getting married on the same day. They will need to provide identification and sign your marriage certificate after the ceremony.

4. Show Up and Say “I Do”

On your wedding day, make sure to arrive on time and bring all necessary documentation, including your marriage license, valid IDs, and any witnesses. When your time comes, the officiant will guide you through the ceremony. It’s a straightforward process that ensures you’ll leave as a married couple with all the official paperwork in hand.

Tips for a Memorable Wedding at DuPage County Courthouse

1. Dress Comfortably, but Specially

While you won’t need a full wedding gown or tuxedo, many couples still choose to wear something that feels a bit more special than their everyday clothes. A simple but elegant outfit—such as a nice dress or suit—will make the occasion feel memorable without being over-the-top.

2. Take Photos Afterward

Though the ceremony room may not be designed for wedding photos, there are plenty of spots around the courthouse that make for beautiful backdrops. The historic exterior, grand staircases, and lush outdoor areas provide plenty of opportunities for photos. Don’t forget to capture the moment you walk out as newlyweds!

3. Plan a Post-Ceremony Celebration

While the courthouse ceremony itself is intimate and brief, you can still celebrate afterward. Consider having a small reception or a dinner at a nearby restaurant, or even just a romantic lunch with your spouse. It’s your day, and how you choose to celebrate afterward is completely up to you!

Final Thoughts: A Simple Yet Perfect Beginning

A wedding at DuPage County Courthouse is ideal for couples who value simplicity, intimacy, and cost-effectiveness without sacrificing the beauty and significance of the occasion. Whether you’re eloping, having a small ceremony with loved ones, or simply looking for a straightforward way to tie the knot, a courthouse wedding is an unforgettable and meaningful experience.

Remember, your wedding day is about the commitment you’re making to each other—not the venue, the decorations, or the guest list. By choosing DuPage County Courthouse, you can focus on what truly matters and start your married life off stress-free.