Thinking about eloping in Houston? Whether you’re dreaming of a small, meaningful ceremony or simply want to skip the stress of a large wedding, Houston is filled with incredible places to say “I do.” From historic courthouses to chic city venues, eloping in Houston can be an unforgettable experience with the right planning. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, including how to get a marriage license, choose an officiant, hire the right vendors, and pick the perfect location for your special day.

How to Get a Marriage License for Your Houston Elopement

Before you say “I do,” you’ll need to get a marriage license. In Harris County, both parties must appear together at the County Clerk’s office with a valid ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. There is a 72-hour waiting period from the time you obtain your license, so be sure to plan ahead. If you’re looking to skip the wait, military personnel and those with a court waiver may be exempt. Your marriage license will be valid for 90 days, giving you plenty of time to finalize the details of your elopement.

For more information, visit the Harris County Clerk’s Office.

Selecting the Perfect Location for Your Houston Elopement

One of the most exciting parts of eloping in Houston is choosing a beautiful, intimate venue that feels right for you. Here are a few top options:

  • City Hall in Houston: City Hall is a classic spot for couples wanting an urban backdrop for their elopement. The stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and modern vibe make it a favorite for many.
  • The Oak Atelier: Nestled in the woods, this stunning venue offers natural beauty for your ceremony. Its serene setting is perfect for couples who want an intimate and romantic feel.
  • The Makenzie House: This cozy white greenhouse offers a modern space for an intimate celebration. Its timeless aesthetic makes it a lovely spot for eloping couples.
  • A Hotel Downtown or in Galveston: Consider eloping in one of Houston’s luxurious hotels for a modern, urban vibe. Or, if you’re dreaming of something a little different, escape to the coast and elope at a stylish hotel in Galveston.
  • McGovern Centennial Gardens: If you’re looking for a lush, outdoor space with beautiful landscaping, McGovern Centennial Gardens is an ideal choice. With vibrant gardens, walking paths, and a stunning pavilion, it’s a peaceful and modern setting for your intimate elopement.

Another unique option is the historic 1910 Harris County Courthouse, which provides a beautiful and classic setting for your vows.

Hiring an Officiant for Your Houston Elopement

You’ll need an officiant to make it official! Here are two great options who specialize in intimate ceremonies:

Having the right officiant ensures your ceremony is memorable and tailored to your relationship, adding a personal touch to your elopement.

Hiring a Wedding Photographer and Other Key Vendors

When you elope, every detail matters—and that includes hiring a wedding photographer who understands how to capture the raw emotion and intimate moments of your day. Eloping in Houston offers endless beautiful backdrops, and with the right photographer, those moments can be preserved forever. That’s where I come in! I specialize in capturing your elopement with emotive, timeless photography, so you can look back on every laugh, kiss, and tear for years to come.

In addition to photography, you’ll want to hire vendors who can bring your vision to life. Here’s a list of talented professionals to consider:

Florists

  • Event by Ova creates stunning, personalized arrangements for couples looking for something unique and fresh.
  • Wild Bloom Florist offers elegant, modern designs that will elevate your elopement day.
  • Wanderie Floral Studio brings a whimsical, romantic touch to florals with a focus on natural beauty and artistic design.
  • Dahlia’s Floral Events specializes in timeless, luxurious arrangements that can perfectly complement an intimate elopement.

Hair & Makeup

For your elopement day, feeling confident and camera-ready is essential. These talented Houston-based makeup artists can help you achieve your dream look:

  • KHBeauty is a local favorite for creating flawless glam bridal looks that enhance your natural beauty.

Cakes & Desserts

Even for an intimate elopement, a beautiful cake or custom dessert can add a sweet touch to your celebration:

  • Sweet Extravagance creates stunning, artistic cakes that are as delicious as they are beautiful.
  • Buttercream Houston offers elegant, custom cakes that perfectly complement the modern aesthetic of an elopement.

Bridal Shops

Looking for the perfect dress or bridal attire that suits your modern, intimate elopement? These Houston-area bridal shops offer chic, timeless options:

  • Wanderlust Bridal Boutique: This boutique specializes in unique, modern bridal looks that capture the essence of today’s bride.
  • Pronovias: Known for its elegant and modern bridal gowns, Pronovias is perfect for brides looking for timeless sophistication.
  • Glam by Nanie: Offers a range of custom dresses that blend glamour with contemporary style, ideal for an elopement.

Why Eloping in Houston is a Great Choice

Eloping in Houston allows you to skip the stress of a big wedding while still enjoying a beautiful, meaningful celebration. With diverse venue options, talented vendors, and all the charm of this great city, your elopement can feel just as special (if not more!) than a traditional wedding. Whether you envision a chic city ceremony or an intimate celebration by the coast, Houston has it all.

Need help finding the perfect elopement location or vendors? Reach out today—I’d love to share more ideas and help you plan a day that feels true to you.

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HI, I'M JOY. LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER & AUTHOR OF THE BLOG

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