Fort Worth Courthouse Elopement Guide: Everything You Need to Know
A complete guide to eloping at the Tarrant County Courthouse in Fort Worth — how it works, what it costs, where to take portraits, and how to make a 15-minute ceremony feel like the most important day of your life.
Why Couples Elope at the Tarrant County Courthouse
The Tarrant County Courthouse sits on the edge of Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth — one of the most beautiful courthouse settings in Texas. Unlike sterile government buildings in many cities, the Fort Worth courthouse area offers genuine charm: walkable streets, restaurants for a post-ceremony celebration, and stunning portrait locations within a five-minute walk.
Couples elope at the Tarrant County Courthouse for many reasons: the simplicity, the cost savings, the freedom from guest-list politics, and the ability to focus entirely on each other. A Fort Worth courthouse elopement is not settling — it is choosing what matters.
Step-by-Step: How to Elope in Fort Worth
1. Get Your Marriage License
Both partners must appear in person at the Tarrant County Clerk's Office (100 W Weatherford Street) with valid government-issued photo ID. The license costs approximately $82. You can begin the application online to save time at the window.
2. Wait 72 Hours (or Get a Waiver)
Texas requires a 72-hour waiting period after the license is issued. This is waived for active-duty military or couples who complete a premarital education course. Plan your ceremony date accordingly.
3. Schedule Your Ceremony
Contact the Tarrant County Justice of the Peace to schedule your civil ceremony. Having a set time helps you coordinate with your photographer and any guests you want to invite.
4. Say Your Vows
The ceremony takes about 15-20 minutes. Bring your marriage license, two witnesses over 18, and yourselves. There is no dress code — wear whatever makes you feel like you.
5. Celebrate in Fort Worth
After the ceremony, walk to the Water Gardens for portraits, grab lunch at a Sundance Square restaurant, or stroll the Southside neighborhood. Fort Worth makes this part easy and beautiful.
Best Portrait Locations After a Fort Worth Courthouse Elopement
One of the biggest advantages of eloping at the Tarrant County Courthouse is the incredible portrait locations within walking distance. Here are our favorites after photographing dozens of Fort Worth courthouse elopements:
Fort Worth Water Gardens — Three blocks from the courthouse, the Water Gardens are dramatic and cinematic. The Active Pool with its cascading water, the Quiet Pool with its meditative stillness, and the Aerating Pool with its fountain sprays all create distinct moods. This is our number one recommendation for courthouse elopement portraits.
Sundance Square — The pedestrian plaza with string lights, the brick buildings, and the mid-century signage create a warm, urban backdrop. Great for couples who want a downtown Fort Worth feel.
Southside District — Walk south from the courthouse and you will hit quiet, tree-lined streets with historic buildings and murals. More intimate and personal than the busier downtown areas.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden — A short drive from the courthouse, the Botanic Garden offers gardens, trails, and the stunning Japanese Garden for couples who want a nature setting after a courthouse ceremony.
“The Water Gardens after a courthouse ceremony — that combination is one of the most powerful portrait sequences we photograph.”
Total Cost of a Fort Worth Courthouse Elopement
Total: approximately $1,000–$1,500 for a beautiful Fort Worth courthouse elopement with professional photography. That is less than 5% of the average traditional wedding cost in DFW.
Hire a Fort Worth Elopement Photographer
A Fort Worth courthouse elopement happens fast — 15-20 minutes of concentrated emotion. The vow exchange, the ring slide, the first kiss, the relieved laughter afterward. Without a photographer, those moments disappear. With one, they become the images you look at for decades.
Our Fort Worth elopement photography starts at $800 for 3 hours — enough to cover the ceremony plus portraits at the Water Gardens or Sundance Square. Every image individually edited, delivered in 10 business days.