The Elopement Guide to the OC Historic Courthouse: Chic, Modern, Effortless
If you’ve been dreaming of skipping the chaos of a big wedding but still want a day that feels iconic, the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana might just be your perfect spot. Picture sandstone arches, marble staircases, and golden light turning even the simplest ceremony into something timeless. The best part? You don’t need a $20,000 venue to make it happen.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything — the best times of day for dreamy lighting, what to wear to nail that chic courthouse look, and the most photogenic spots inside and outside the building. We’ll even dive into how to pull off a last-minute elopement (yes, sometimes even same day!). Whether you’re going bold and modern or keeping it minimalist, this courthouse elopement guide will show you how to make your “I do” effortless, stylish, and unforgettable.
Eloping at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana is the definition of chic, modern, and effortless. With sandstone arches, marble staircases, and golden light pouring through tall windows, this historic landmark is the backdrop for couples who want timeless romance without the stress or sky-high cost of a big wedding.
Here’s your sexy playbook for planning a courthouse elopement in Orange County.
Best Times of Day for Lighting
Morning (8–10 AM): Soft light and quieter halls — perfect for intimate portraits before the crowds.
Midday (11 AM–2 PM): The sandstone exterior glows under full sun, ideal for dramatic outdoor shots.
Golden Hour (4–6 PM): Dreamy, cinematic portraits as the light softens across downtown Santa Ana.
What to Wear for a Chic Courthouse Look
Veils & Flowing Dresses that create movement on the staircases.
Bold Suits in black, navy, or a statement color for editorial-style photos.
Minimalist Chic with slip dresses, jumpsuits, or sharp tailoring that complements the architecture.
Accessories like oversized sunglasses, bold jewelry, or a bouquet that pops against the stone.
Spots Inside & Outside for Dramatic Photos
Grand Staircases for iconic veil and couple portraits.
Sandstone Arches that frame romantic shots.
Courtroom Interiors with cinematic light streaming through windows.
Marble Hallways for editorial-style images.
Outside Steps & Entrances perfect for group cheers.
Nearby Streets & Cafés for stylish post-ceremony portraits in the Santa Ana arts district.
Going Last Minute: What You Need to Know
Yes — you can elope same day at the Santa Ana courthouse, but here’s what to expect:
Marriage license first → Complete the online application before going in (Santa Ana, Anaheim, or Laguna Hills offices).
Fees & documents → Public license $61, confidential license $66, ceremony fee $28. Bring valid IDs. Witness required for public license.
Walk-ins vs appointments → Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are allowed on a first-come basis. Appointment holders get priority.
Same-day elopement → Possible if you arrive early with paperwork ready. Some couples have reported waiting only 10–15 minutes for a ceremony when it’s not busy.
Limits → Fridays and wedding-heavy seasons book quickly. Limited rooms and staff can affect timing. Missing documents or a witness = no ceremony.
Last-Minute Checklist
Bring valid, non-expired ID for both partners
Bring a witness (your photographer can serve as one)
Fill out the online application in advance
Arrive early when the office opens
Call ahead to confirm walk-in availability
Be flexible — you may wait or shift timing
How We Help With Last-Minute Elopements
We make courthouse elopements stress-free and cinematic:
We know the best times and secret photo spots
We can step in as your witness if needed
We help with timing, flow, and keeping things effortless
We capture it all — vows, portraits, and every candid in between
Let’s Answer the Big Questions
Elopement in Orange County — is getting eloped cheaper than getting married?
Absolutely. A courthouse elopement costs under $200 total. Compare that with the $25,000–$49,000 average for a traditional wedding in Orange County, and it’s clear why more couples are choosing the courthouse.
Is it better to elope or have a wedding?
It depends on what you value. Weddings are about hosting others; elopements are about focusing on each other. If intimacy, freedom, and less stress sound good, eloping at the courthouse is a modern and romantic option.
Can I really make a courthouse elopement feel chic?
Yes — with the right outfits, perfect timing, and professional photography, your courthouse ceremony can look like it belongs in Vogue.
Final Thoughts
Your courthouse elopement deserves more than a rushed ceremony and a few snapshots. We’ll help you plan it start to finish — from booking and timing, to style advice, to dramatic portraits that make the day unforgettable. Book your Santa Ana Courthouse elopement photographer today and let’s turn your vows into a chic, modern, effortless love story.