Civil Courthouse Wedding Photography at the Historic Santa Ana Courthouse | Ashley & Quentin’s Orange County Marriage
Every love story is unique, and Ashley and Quentin’s civil courthouse wedding at the Historic Santa Ana Courthouse in Orange County was no exception. After finding us through one of our blogs, Ashley reached out for photography coverage of their September courthouse marriage. From the first consultation call to planning the storyboard and timeline, we collaborated closely to ensure their vision came to life. On the day of, the couple radiated joy despite jet lag from their honeymoon abroad and family traveling in from Texas and Indiana. We arrived early to scout fresh angles and lighting, ensuring their photos felt unique while avoiding crowds. From candid parking lot shots to the iconic courthouse stairway and intimate chapel vows, we captured every step of their journey. For us, each courthouse marriage is an opportunity to document timeless memories, and Ashley and Quentin’s wedding reminds us why we love what we do — transforming an ordinary day at the courthouse into extraordinary keepsakes of love and connection.
Why Couples Choose Civil Courthouse Weddings in Orange County
When couples search for civil courthouse wedding photography in Orange County, the Historic Santa Ana Courthouse often tops the list. Its timeless architecture, marble staircases, and intimate ceremony spaces make it one of the most popular spots for couples looking for an elegant yet stress-free wedding day.
Recently, we had the honor of capturing Ashley and Quentin’s September courthouse marriage in Santa Ana. Their story is the perfect example of how planning, communication, and trust between client and photographer can transform a courthouse wedding into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Ashley & Quentin sharing a quiet embrace on the elegant stairway of the Historic Santa Ana Courthouse — a timeless moment from their Orange County courthouse wedding photography.
The historic Santa Ana Courthouse is one of Southern California’s most iconic spots for an elegant yet affordable wedding. Our Timeless Moments Elopement & Courthouse Wedding Package is designed to capture your vows with professional photography, timeless edits, and a stress-free experience.
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From Blog Discovery to Booking
Ashley first discovered us through one of our courthouse wedding blogs. She submitted a form on our website asking about photography coverage for her September marriage. After a few back-and-forth emails and a consultation call to align her vision, we saved the date and began planning the day together.
Ashley was proactive in sending inspiration photos, which gave us a clear sense of what moments were most important to her. In return, we created a custom storyboard and timeline—a tool we give all our couples to keep things on track and ensure every detail is covered.
Planning for the Expected (and the Unexpected)
If there’s one lesson we’ve learned as courthouse wedding photographers in Orange County, it’s this: always plan for the unexpected. Ashley and Quentin had just returned from their honeymoon in Europe and were understandably jet-lagged. Family had flown in from Texas and Indiana. Meanwhile, Stephanie and I were running on just a few hours of sleep from the night before.
Still, the show must go on. We arrived early at the courthouse before it opened—something we always recommend to couples—so we could test lighting, scout fresh angles, and explore spaces we hadn’t used in past weddings. This way, every couple gets photos that feel unique to them.
The Wedding Day Experience
We first met Ashley and Quentin in the parking lot. Quentin greeted us with the biggest smile, his joy cutting through any signs of jet lag. From that moment, we knew the day would be full of love and excitement.
Candid moments: From capturing them in their vehicle to walking hand-in-hand toward the courthouse.
Behind-the-scenes: Signing in, waiting on the grand staircase, and finding quiet moments before the ceremony began.
The ceremony: Inside the courthouse chapel, where vows were exchanged and certificates signed.
Family portraits: Post-ceremony photos outside, with family who traveled cross-country to celebrate.
By getting there early, we were able to take advantage of the courthouse before crowds arrived—a huge perk couples often don’t realize until they see the final gallery.
Why Every Courthouse Wedding Feels Like the First
Every time we shoot a courthouse marriage, it feels like the very first one. There’s something deeply moving about witnessing two people begin a new chapter of life together. Whether it’s laughter, tears, or quiet moments of reflection, these images carry stories that last long after the day itself.
For Ashley and Quentin, it wasn’t just about paperwork or tradition—it was about family, presence, and joy. For us, it was another reminder of why we love what we do: capturing love through the lens.
Recap & Takeaways
If you’re considering a civil courthouse wedding at the Santa Ana Historic Courthouse, here’s what Ashley & Quentin’s day teaches us:
Book early and plan together. A consultation call and storyboard help keep things stress-free.
Arrive before the courthouse opens. Less crowds = more time for creative shots.
Embrace flexibility. Travel schedules, jet lag, or unexpected delays are all part of the story.
Trust your photographer. We’ll be with you every step of the way, from the parking lot to the marriage certificate.
Call to Action
Planning your own Orange County courthouse wedding photography? We’d love to help you create a custom timeline and capture every detail of your day.
👉 Book Your Civil Courthouse Wedding Photographer Today
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Why More Couples Are Choosing the Santa Ana Courthouse Over Expensive Venues
Couples across Southern California are skipping the $20,000+ venue price tags and embracing the timeless beauty of the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana. With historic sandstone walls, marble staircases, and cinematic light, this courthouse transforms a simple ceremony into a chic, stress-free celebration. For under $200, you can have an unforgettable wedding day, invest your savings in attire, a honeymoon, or photography, and still walk away with iconic images that look like they belong in a magazine. It’s more than a courthouse wedding — it’s a modern love story, affordable, elegant, and unforgettable.
Getting married in Orange County doesn’t have to cost $25,000+. Traditional venues can charge anywhere from $4,000 to $20,000+ just to rent the space — before food, décor, or entertainment. That’s why couples are saying goodbye to overpriced ballrooms and hello to the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana.
For less than $200 total, you can exchange vows inside a historic landmark filled with marble staircases, sandstone arches, and golden light. It’s the perfect mix of romance, history, and affordability — giving you a wedding day that looks straight out of a movie without the heavy price tag.
More couples are choosing the Santa Ana Courthouse for its charm, history, and affordability. Our Elopements & Weddings Packages are designed to capture every detail of your ceremony—without the stress of a big venue.
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The Price Tag Reality in Orange County
Average wedding in Orange County: $25,000–$49,000 total spend.
Venue rentals alone often run $4,300–$20,000+, depending on guest count and location.
Popular hotels, resorts, and golf clubs can start at $15,000+ before food, décor, or rentals.
The Historic Courthouse Alternative
Marriage license: $61 (public) or $66 (confidential).
Civil ceremony: $28.
Total: less than $100–$200 all in.
Same dramatic arches, marble staircases, and timeless architecture you’d expect from a high-end venue — without the overhead costs.
What You Can Do With the Savings
Upgrade your wedding attire — splurge on that gown, veil, or suit you’ve been eyeing.
Plan a chic dinner or champagne toast with your closest family and friends.
Put more toward your honeymoon or future adventures together.
Hire a photographer who will turn your courthouse ceremony into a cinematic love story (wink wink… that’s us).
Why It’s the Smart and Sexy Choice
The courthouse isn’t just practical — it’s romantic, historic, and effortless.
Instead of stressing over linens and guest counts, you get to focus on each other.
Your photos will look like a feature from a magazine, not a budget compromise.
Couples are realizing courthouse weddings aren’t “less than” — they’re intimate, modern, and iconic.
Recap
Average Orange County weddings cost $25,000–$49,000, with venues alone often $4,000–$20,000+
The Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana offers ceremonies for under $200 total
Courthouse weddings give you historic arches, marble staircases, and cinematic light for timeless photos
Savings can go toward:
Attire upgrades
A chic dinner or champagne toast
A honeymoon
Hiring a professional photographer (wink wink, that’s us)
Courthouse weddings are romantic, modern, stress-free, and affordable
With the right photography, your courthouse ceremony feels like a luxury, magazine-worthy wedding
Ready to make your courthouse wedding feel iconic? Book your Santa Ana Courthouse wedding photographer with us today and let’s turn your “quick I do” into a timeless love story.
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Why Tuesday Might Be the Most Romantic Day to Get Married in Southern California
There’s a quiet kind of magic in choosing an unexpected day to say “I do”—and Tuesday just might be the most romantic day of the week to get married. This blog dives into why weekday weddings, especially courthouse elopements in Southern California, are gaining momentum with couples looking for intimacy, simplicity, and intention. From wide-open staircases at the historic Santa Ana Courthouse to peaceful strolls after your vows in downtown San Diego or a spontaneous mini-moon in Palm Springs, a Tuesday elopement gives you space to breathe and be fully present. It’s more than a smart choice for parking or price—though those perks don’t hurt. It’s about reclaiming the moment, skipping the chaos, and starting your story your way. If you're ready to sidestep the crowds and stress of weekend weddings, here's why Tuesday might just be the most unforgettable day to begin forever.
Imagine walking into a sunlit courthouse where you’re not just another name on the list. No lines, no noise—just you, your partner, and the beginning of everything. The air feels still, like time is pausing to let you soak in the moment. That’s the magic of a Tuesday wedding.
If you’re planning a courthouse wedding or elopement in Southern California, there’s one decision that could quietly shape your entire experience: what day of the week you get married. While Fridays and weekends get most of the attention, more couples are discovering the magic of Tuesday weddings—and it’s not just about availability.
Whether you’re exchanging vows at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, the San Diego County Administration Center, or the Larson Justice Center in Palm Springs, weekday weddings—especially on a Tuesday—offer a peaceful, stress-free alternative to the busy courthouse scene you’ll find later in the week. And beyond logistics, there’s a quiet romance to marrying on a Tuesday. It’s unexpected. It’s intentional. It’s the kind of decision that says, "This moment is just for us."
Last Friday, we were shooting at the Santa Ana courthouse and by 11 a.m., it was completely packed. The iconic staircases were swarming with couples and families, and getting clean, quiet shots became almost impossible. It was a clear reminder that if you're planning a courthouse elopement, Tuesday is the day to beat the crowds and keep your ceremony stress-free. Here’s why:
Just married at the historic Santa Ana Courthouse in the heart of Orange County—timeless, intimate, and unforgettable. Ready to plan your courthouse wedding? Let’s make it beautiful. Book your session today.
Midweek weddings in Southern California come with quieter beaches, better light, and a slower, more romantic pace. Whether you're eloping, heading to the courthouse, or planning something intimate—we’re here for it.
👉 Start Planning Your Tuesday “I Do”
1. Tuesday Courthouse Weddings Are Quieter and More Intimate
Courthouses in Orange County, San Diego, and Palm Springs see the most foot traffic on Fridays and at the end of each month. Tuesdays, on the other hand, often feel like a well-kept secret. That means shorter wait times, more privacy during your ceremony, and better photo opportunities without having to dodge other couples and their families.
2. Better Lighting and Photo Opportunities
With fewer people using the same spaces, you’ll have more flexibility to explore angles, take your time on the staircases, or shoot near your ceremony room without being rushed. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially at busy locations like the San Diego County Administration Center.
3. Midweek Elopements Are Budget-Friendly
Tuesday weddings are typically more affordable—not just at the courthouse, but for your mini-moon too. Hotels and Airbnbs in Palm Springs, Julian, or Laguna Beach often offer better availability and lower prices midweek. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your memories.
4. Easier Parking and Smoother Travel
Parking in places like Santa Ana and downtown San Diego can be a nightmare on Fridays. On Tuesday mornings, you’ll often find parking closer to the entrance and less traffic on the road. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference on your wedding day.
5. You’re More Present With Each Other
Fewer distractions and a slower pace mean more time for connection. There’s no pressure to rush through photos or squeeze into a packed schedule. The whole day feels like it belongs to you—and that’s romantic in itself.
6. The Element of Surprise
A Tuesday wedding catches people off guard—in the best way. It makes your love story stand out. It’s a twist no one saw coming, and that’s what makes it so uniquely yours.
7. Vendors Are More Available and Flexible
Photographers, florists, and officiants tend to be more available and relaxed on weekdays. You get more of their attention, creativity, and care—which can elevate the entire experience.
8. Courthouse Logistics Are Simpler
From witness sign-ins to ceremony coordination, the entire process is smoother when the courthouse isn’t overwhelmed. That means less waiting and a better overall experience.
9. More Room to Celebrate
A post-ceremony lunch downtown, drinks by the beach, or even a spontaneous midweek getaway—Tuesdays give you the space to do it all without the weekend chaos. More availability, more flexibility, and fewer crowds.
10. You Set the Tone for Your Marriage
Choosing a weekday wedding says, "We’re doing this our way." It sets the tone for a relationship built on intention, meaning, and shared priorities—not expectations.
🧡 Make Tuesday Yours
There’s something poetic about choosing a random Tuesday to become the day you’ll celebrate forever. No big stage. No pressure. Just you, your person, and the commitment you’re making to each other.
If you're looking for a way to make your courthouse wedding feel a little more intentional—and a lot more you—a Tuesday elopement might be your perfect answer.
📍 Let’s capture your weekday wedding in its purest, quietest form. Whether it’s the staircases of Santa Ana, the coastal breeze in San Diego, or a desert kiss in Palm Springs—we’ll help make Tuesday feel like the best decision you’ve ever made.
👉 Book your courthouse elopement photography with us today — and let Tuesday be the most unforgettable surprise in your wedding journey. Because sometimes, doing it differently makes it even more meaningful.
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From a Simple Inquiry to a Timeless Wedding Story – Capturing Colleen & Joshua’s Courthouse “I Do”
When Colleen reached out just one week before her wedding at the historic Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, we knew we had to make it happen. She and Joshua were planning an intimate civil ceremony, and although they were on a tight budget, their story and energy aligned perfectly with the kind of work we love to do. We hadn’t photographed a wedding in years, and this felt like the perfect way to step back into that world—through genuine connection and storytelling.
From waking up at 3 AM to scouting locations before the courthouse opened, to documenting their vow exchange and tear-filled chapel ceremony, this wedding reminded us why we do what we do. Every detail—from the handwritten vows to the courthouse architecture—deserved to be preserved. And for the first time, we leaned fully into black and white edits and cinematic grain, creating timeless imagery that felt as emotional as the day itself.
If you're planning a civil courthouse wedding in Southern California, especially at the beautiful Santa Ana courthouse, and you're looking for warm, candid, and affordable photography, we’d love to capture your day.
It all started with an email.
Colleen had filled out the form on our website, asking if we were available to photograph her civil courthouse wedding in Santa Ana. She and her fiancé Joshua were planning to tie the knot at the historic Orange County Courthouse—a beautiful building that practically begs to be photographed. Their wedding was just a week away, and they were on a tight budget. She asked us two things: were we available, and would we be willing to work within what she had?
We weren’t booked for that day, and something about her message felt serendipitous. Lately, our focus has been on family sessions, maternity shoots, and surprise proposals, but Stephanie and I have been itching to get back into weddings. And this felt like the perfect way to do it—intimate, meaningful, and with just enough challenge to reignite our creativity.
After a quick yes from us, we got the key details: time, guest count, anything that could help us build a mental storyboard and plan our shots. We treat even the smallest courthouse weddings like they’re the biggest moments in the world—because they are. This wasn’t just a job; it was a chance to help someone preserve one of the most important days of their lives.
From Santa Ana to San Diego, courthouse weddings are filled with intimacy, emotion, and timeless charm. We’ll help you capture every meaningful detail—from signing the certificate to your first kiss as a married couple. Simple doesn’t mean forgettable.
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Wedding Day
We were up by 3:00 AM. Two hours of driving, plus coffee and gas stops—non-negotiables. The courthouse didn’t open until 8:00 AM, but we wanted to be on-site early to scout photo locations and be ready before the groom arrived. When we got there, the air was still crisp, and the streets were quiet. We walked the property, found the best light, envisioned their ceremony, and mapped out a few must-have shots.
When Joshua arrived, we introduced ourselves and waited together for Colleen. She ran a little late, but we expected that—it’s always better to over-prepare and stay calm. Weddings can be emotional and unpredictable, so we show up grounded. No panic, no pressure, just support.
Because of the delay, their appointment time was pushed back a bit, which actually worked in our favor. We took full advantage of the empty hallways and got some stunning shots inside the building before it got too busy. The architecture of the Santa Ana courthouse has this old-world charm, and when you frame it just right, it adds so much story to even the quietest moments.
Once their number was called, we captured the marriage license signing—something many couples forget to document, but it’s part of the story. Then we were invited into the chapel where they exchanged personal vows in a sweet, emotional ceremony that brought a few of us to tears.
After the Ceremony
The rest of the day felt like a breeze. We moved outside for family and group portraits, got some fun candids, and captured the newlyweds together in quiet moments that we know they’ll cherish forever.
When it came time to edit, something unexpected happened. We rarely lean into black and white edits or add intentional grain—but for this shoot, it just felt right. The texture, emotion, and timelessness came alive in a way we hadn’t tapped into before. It reminded us that as photographers, we’re constantly evolving—and that’s a beautiful thing.
What started as a last-minute request turned into a fresh start for us, both creatively and professionally. We’re grateful to Colleen and Joshua for trusting us to be a part of their day, and we’re already looking forward to the next courthouse wedding adventure.
Looking for Affordable Courthouse Wedding Photography in Southern California?
Whether you’re planning an elopement or a civil ceremony at the Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, we’d love to document your day. We offer flexible packages and timeless storytelling that doesn’t break the bank.
👉 Book our courthouse wedding photography package today.
📸 Want to see more?
View the full wedding gallery in both black and white and color — click here to explore the photos.
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What We Wish Couples Knew Before Their Courthouse Wedding in Orange County or San Diego – 18 Tips That Matter
Courthouse weddings in Orange County and San Diego offer some of the most meaningful and low-pressure ways to say “I do.” But even with their simplicity, these civil ceremonies can catch couples off guard without the right planning. From navigating guest limits and knowing where to park, to choosing the best time slot and capturing key moments—there’s more to think about than most expect. In this blog, we’re sharing 18 real-world tips to help you prepare for your courthouse wedding day, whether you're tying the knot at the Santa Ana Courthouse or saying your vows in downtown San Diego. We cover timing, lighting, location coordination, emotional moments, and how to stay grounded even when the unexpected happens. If you're planning a quiet, intentional ceremony, these insights will help you feel confident walking in—and leave with photos and memories that reflect the beauty of your day.
Courthouse weddings are beautiful—simple, meaningful, and refreshingly low-pressure. But after documenting dozens of civil ceremonies across Orange County and San Diego, we’ve learned that even the most laid-back love stories deserve a little planning. And we’ve also seen the mistakes, surprises, and "we didn’t think of that" moments that can throw couples off on what should be one of the best days of their lives.
This blog isn’t about scaring you. It’s about preparing you. Whether you’re eloping, getting legally married before a big destination wedding, or just want to keep things intimate and simple, there are a few things we genuinely wish every couple knew before stepping into that historic courthouse.
Some of these tips might save you time, some might save you stress—and a few might even save your photos.
A quiet signature that changes everything. This moment inside the courthouse is more than paperwork—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. If you're planning a civil ceremony, don’t miss the chance to preserve these fleeting, powerful moments.
📸 Book your courthouse session today → www.lastminutephotoshoot.com
Serving San Diego, Orange County & beyond.
From Santa Ana to San Diego, courthouse weddings are filled with intimacy, emotion, and timeless charm. We’ll help you capture every meaningful detail—from signing the certificate to your first kiss as a married couple. Simple doesn’t mean forgettable.
👉 Book Your Courthouse Session
1. Book the Earliest Time Slot Available
Crowds build fast. The light shifts. The vibe changes. A quiet 8:30am appointment can feel like magic. By 11am, it’s chaos—especially at high-traffic courthouses like Santa Ana or Chula Vista.
2. Arrive Early (Like… Really Early)
Don’t arrive on time. Arrive before time. There’s security, parking, ID checks, and that one pen that doesn’t work. Build in a buffer so you can breathe.
3. The Staircase Photos? You Have a 30-Minute Window
If you're dreaming of those iconic indoor shots on the courthouse staircase or balcony—do them right after your ceremony, or even before, if you check in early. By late morning, those spaces are packed.
4. Your Ceremony Might Be Over in 2 Minutes (Literally)
Civil ceremonies are short. Some officiants get right to it. If you want to personalize your vows, ask in advance if you're allowed to read them. Otherwise, it’s blink-and-it’s-over.
5. Bring Only Who Matters—And Make Sure They Know What to Expect
You’re only allowed two witnesses to watch you sign your marriage certificate. One of those can be a close friend or family member—and the other often ends up being your photographer. Keep that in mind as you plan who will be present for this special moment. As a photographer, don’t miss the opportunity to capture the details: the signing of the certificate, the exchange of rings, or that moment the bride or groom quietly tears up. Most courthouses have guest limits. Some don’t allow photos during the license signing. Prepare your people. The less chaos, the more space for emotion.
6. Watch That Parking Meter
In Santa Ana, you’ll get 2 hours max on the meter. But with delays, lines, and photos, you’ll likely go over. We’ve had to run back mid-shoot to feed the meter. Not ideal.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Dress Up
Just because it’s “simple” doesn’t mean it can’t be stunning. We’ve had brides in tailored jumpsuits, grooms in velvet blazers, and couples who matched their dog’s bowtie to their bouquet. Make it yours.
8. Have a Game Plan for Afterwards
Even if it’s just a lunch reservation, a beach walk, or a post-ceremony toast—celebrate somehow. You’re married. That deserves a moment.
9. Photos Make the Moment Last
It goes fast—faster than you expect. The license signing, the walk down the hallway, the tiny chapel… it’s over before it begins. But photos let you feel it again. If you’re hiring a photographer, trust them to guide the timeline and keep it light but intentional.
10. It’s Your Day. You Get to Decide How It Feels.
Civil doesn’t mean boring. Quiet doesn’t mean less important. Your courthouse wedding is the beginning of your story. Make it feel like you.
11. Share Your GPS Coordinates—Seriously
Sharing your exact location via GPS is a game-changer on the day of your civil ceremony. Whether you're parking, waiting in line, or already inside the building, having real-time location sharing between you, your partner, and your photographer removes the stress of texting "Where are you?" while trying to enjoy the moment.
Drop a pin at the entrance you'll be using, not just the building. Some courthouses (like Santa Ana) have multiple entrances and security lines—this makes a big difference.
12. If You’re Scheduled at 9AM—Be There at 8:45, No Excuses
Courthouses run on their time, not yours. If you’re scheduled for 9:00 AM, show up early and check in the moment you arrive. We’ve seen couples show up just five minutes late and lose their spot—with no warning, no flexibility, and no way to get back on the schedule. Some courthouses will push you back without notice, and you could be waiting hours.
13. Test Your Flash and Know Your Settings Before It Matters
Courthouses are notoriously tricky for lighting. Low ceilings, mixed light sources, and zero time to adjust mid-ceremony. If you’re a photographer, test your flash inside the building as early as possible. Grab a few test shots near the ceremony room, staircase, and window areas to lock in your settings ahead of time.
Even if you’re shooting with natural light, knowing your ISO baseline before you walk into the chapel makes all the difference in your final gallery.
14. Visualize the Worst So You Can Handle It With Grace
Before every civil wedding we photograph, we take 60 seconds to mentally run through the "what ifs":
What if security takes 20 minutes?
What if the staircase is full of people?
What if it rains?
What if someone forgets their ID?
What if we run out of time inside?
When you plan for the worst, you stay grounded in the best parts of the day: the love, the vows, and the story you came here to tell.
15. Fuel Yourself First
As a photographer, don’t forget the basics: eat something before the day starts. Whether it’s a real breakfast or just a protein bar and coffee, fuel and hydrate so you don’t burn out halfway through. Bring water, snacks, and backup caffeine—you’ll thank yourself later.
16. Bring Wet Wipes for Emergency Touch-Ups
Accidents happen. Lipstick smudges, suit lint, stray makeup lines—you name it. Keeping a pack of wet wipes or a mini emergency kit in your bag can save the day for the bride, groom, or anyone stepping in front of your lens. And while you’re at it, bring tissues too—someone always tears up during the vows or certificate signing, and you’ll be ready when they do. Accidents happen. Lipstick smudges, suit lint, stray makeup lines—you name it. Keeping a pack of wet wipes or a mini emergency kit in your bag can save the day for the bride, groom, or anyone stepping in front of your lens.
17. Communication Is Everything
This one’s for the photographers out there: communication is key to managing the flow of the day. The couple already has a million things on their mind—so take ownership of the timeline. Know the layout of the courthouse, the order of events, and how much time to allocate for each moment. Check in regularly. Use any downtime wisely by scouting spaces or grabbing shots inside or outside before crowds fill in. The more clearly you communicate, the smoother the day will feel for everyone.
18. Have a Pinterest Story Board Ready
This tip is small but powerful. Having a Pinterest board of poses and inspiration helps immensely if you hit a moment of uncertainty during the shoot. Whether you're indoors with tricky light or outdoors between locations, a quick scroll through pre-saved ideas can keep things flowing smoothly and creatively.
❤️ Let’s Make Your Courthouse Wedding Unforgettable
You’ve got one shot to make this moment feel timeless—don’t leave it to chance. Whether you’re planning ahead or figuring it out last minute, we’re here to help you slow down, enjoy it, and walk away with photos that actually mean something.
📍 Book your courthouse session now
📍 Serving San Diego, Orange County, and all of SoCal
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Say "I Do" with a View: Best Courthouse Wedding Spots Near the Ocean in Orange County
Dreaming of a courthouse wedding that’s beautiful, intimate, and anything but boring? Say goodbye to harsh lighting and dull backdrops—Orange County offers courthouse ceremonies just minutes from some of California’s most stunning beaches and coastal views. Whether you're eloping last minute or planning a small celebration with your closest loved ones, you can still have heartfelt vows, romantic portraits, and a golden-hour glow. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best courthouse wedding locations near the ocean, including Laguna Hills Civic Center, the historic Old Orange County Courthouse, and more. You'll also find hidden gem photo spots like Victoria Beach and Dana Point Bluff Trail to elevate your wedding day without the stress (or price tag) of a traditional venue. And with a flexible timeline, nearby dining options, and our photography team by your side, you’ll have everything you need for a love story worth framing. Let’s create something unforgettable—with the ocean as your witness.
Your Love Story Deserves More Than a Backdrop of Beige Walls
If you're dreaming of a courthouse wedding in Orange County but can't bear the thought of fluorescent lights and linoleum floors, you're not alone. More and more couples are skipping the traditional venue route and opting for something intimate, scenic, and deeply personal. And here's the good news: you can still have a courthouse ceremony and celebrate with stunning ocean views—without compromising on style or story.
As full-time photographers specializing in intimate weddings and surprise proposals across Southern California, we've scouted the most photogenic courthouse locations and coastal photo ops so you don’t have to. From cliffside portraits to post-vow champagne toasts at sunset, here’s how to make your courthouse wedding in Orange County unforgettable.
From playful moments to tear-filled “Yes!” reactions, we capture the connection that makes your story one of a kind. Explore real engagement and proposal sessions filled with golden light, candid emotion, and unforgettable Southern California backdrops.
👉 View Engagement & Proposal Portfolio
Top Courthouse Locations Near the Ocean in Orange County
1. Laguna Hills Civic Center – South County Branch
Address: 24031 El Toro Rd, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Website: OC Recorder Civil Ceremonies
Fees: $61 for license, $28 for ceremony
Why We Love It: Just a short drive from Victoria Beach and Treasure Island Park, this courthouse offers easy access to some of Laguna's most breathtaking photo spots.
Nearby Places to Celebrate: Have a sunset dinner at Driftwood Kitchen or toast with oceanfront cocktails at Splashes Restaurant.
2. Old Orange County Courthouse – Santa Ana
Address: 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA 92701
Website: Historic Courtroom Rental Info
Fees: $61 for license, $28 for ceremony, $600+ to rent historic courtroom
Why We Love It: Gorgeous Romanesque Revival architecture and wood detailing make this location feel timeless. It’s a popular spot for cinematic wedding portraits.
Nearby Places to Celebrate: Drive 20 minutes to Newport Beach for dinner at The Cannery or celebrate at Lido Marina Village.
3. North Justice Center – Fullerton
Address: 1275 N Berkeley Ave, Fullerton, CA 92832
Website: OC Courthouse Info
Fees: Standard courthouse fees
Why We Love It: While not ocean-adjacent, it’s perfect for couples who want a quick ceremony and plan to head straight to the coast afterward.
Nearby Places to Celebrate: Head west to Huntington Beach for a beach picnic or a laid-back lunch at Pacific Hideaway.
Scenic Photo Locations to Pair With Your Courthouse Wedding
Victoria Beach (Laguna Beach): Famous for its hidden tower and dramatic cliffs. Perfect for golden hour.
Dana Point Bluff Top Trail: Overlooks the harbor and has secluded lookouts for quiet moments.
Casa Romantica Cultural Center (San Clemente): For those wanting a blend of architecture, history, and panoramic views.
Treasure Island Park: Tropical plants, paved paths, and cliffs overlooking crashing waves—feels like a destination wedding without leaving the state.
Sample Wedding Itinerary
11:00 AM – Civil ceremony at Laguna Hills Civic Center
11:30 AM – Quick photos on courthouse grounds
12:30 PM – Drive to Victoria Beach or Treasure Island Park
1:00 PM – Romantic coastal portrait session
3:00 PM – Champagne toast and celebration lunch at Splashes Restaurant in Laguna Beach
4:30 PM – Sunset walk or beach picnic to end the day
Let Us Capture It All
Your courthouse wedding can be just as memorable as a grand ballroom affair—if not more. And as your photographers, we’re here to capture every candid glance, every golden-hour kiss, and every spontaneous laugh along the way.
Whether you’re planning your courthouse ceremony in two months or two days, we’ll help you find the perfect location, plan the timing for the best light, and guide you every step of the way.
📸 Book your courthouse wedding photography here
Let’s turn your vows into a love story with a view.