A Picture Perfect Portland Maine City Hall Wedding Celebrating Colby and Will
A wedding day should feel like you, and Colby and Will’s intimate Portland Maine City Hall wedding was the perfect reflection of their love story. Opting for a no-frills yet incredibly meaningful day, they embraced all their favorite things—ocean views, delicious food, and a laid-back celebration in the city they love.
A Dream Day in the Heart of Portland
Colby and Will’s dream day started with lots of love getting ready with their people. Colby chose a historic airbnb that was honestly full of so much charm and hidden nooks! Will got ready in their home and had a chill morning with their pups.
Seeing both of C+W’s excitement as we headed to Willard Beach for their first look was the cutest thing ever. This beach is a a place that holds so many memories for them and their pups and is their favorite walk in Portland. The September sun was shining and a crisp breeze was in the air, these two exchanged private vows by the ocean, soaking in the moment before heading off to officially do the damn thing!
Portland Maine City Hall Wedding: A Perfectly Simple and beautiful Ceremony
Rather than a traditional venue, Colby and Will chose to say “I do” at the Portland Courthouse. Their ceremony was sweet and simple, just the way they wanted—no big production, just heartfelt vows and a joyful exit onto the city streets as newlyweds. It doesn’t hurt that the Portland courthouse is an absolute vibeeeee.
But the best part?! On their way to the courthouse, they stopped at their favorite ice cream shop for a celebratory treat. Because why not?
A Downtown Celebration & Cozy Reception at Chaval
After making it official, they took a celebratory stroll through downtown Portland, stopping for champagne before heading to Chaval—an intimate and cozy restaurant with a backyard-style patio that was perfect for their reception. The evening was filled with incredible food, warm conversations, and the relaxed atmosphere they had envisioned from the start. From a guest seating chart showcasing Colby and Will’s favorite places to oyster shell name plates and subtle nods to their beloved pups, every detail of their day was a reflection of what mattered most to them.
Why Choose a Portland Maine City Hall Wedding?
For couples who love the idea of getting married in Portland but don’t feel drawn to traditional venues, a courthouse wedding might be the perfect fit.
- It’s simple, intimate, and stress-free. You can focus on the moments that matter most without the pressure of a big production.
- You can personalize your day however you want. From an oceanside first look to grabbing ice cream before your vows, there’s so much room for creativity.
- Portland is full of charm. With beautiful coastal spots, historic streets, and incredible restaurants, your day can be as unique and vibrant as the city itself.
How to Legally Prepare for Your Portland Maine City Hall Wedding
If you’re considering a City Hall wedding in Portland, there are a few key legal steps to take to ensure a smooth process:
- Obtain a Marriage License: You can apply for a marriage license at the Portland City Clerk’s Office. Both parties must appear in person and provide valid identification. You can find more information and download the necessary forms here.
- Timing: There is no waiting period in Maine, so you can receive your marriage license the same day you apply. However, it’s best to plan at least a few weeks in advance to ensure all documents are in order.
- Marriage License Fee: The cost of obtaining a marriage license in Portland is typically $40.
- Officiant Requirements: You will need a registered officiant to perform the ceremony. If you don’t already have one, the City Hall can often provide a list of justices of the peace who can officiate your wedding.
- License Expiration: The marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, so be sure to plan your ceremony within that time frame.
- Filing the Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, the officiant must file the completed marriage certificate with the city. You can then request a certified copy for your records.
For more details on the process, visit the official Portland Maine government website here.
How Much Does a Portland Maine City Hall Wedding Cost?
One of the biggest perks of a courthouse wedding is its affordability. While costs can vary, a marriage license in Portland typically costs around $40, and a courthouse ceremony fee is minimal compared to renting a traditional venue. This leaves more room in the budget for meaningful experiences—like an incredible dinner at a restaurant you love, splurge on your wedding dress or an extravagant honeymoon experience!
Making It Your Own
Colby and Will’s wedding proves that you don’t need a ballroom or a long guest list to have an unforgettable wedding day. Whether it’s a first look on the beach, stopping for ice cream on the way to City Hall, or a cozy dinner under the stars, a Portland Maine courthouse wedding gives you the freedom to craft a day that truly feels like you.
If you’re considering a Portland Maine City Hall wedding, let this be your sign that simple doesn’t mean boring.
It means intentional, personal, and absolutely perfect in its own way.
Vendors:
Photography: Erica Warren Photography
Florals: Antho Maine
Hair + Makeup: JW Artistry
Venue + Catering: Chaval
Portland Maine Wedding Photographer | Erica Warren Photography
I really strive to be more than just a photographer. I am all about capturing genuine moments that make life special with the people you love most. Located on the Seacoast of New Hampshire, I believe in celebrating love in your own unique way. Let’s freeze those unforgettable moments in time, so you can revisit them time and time again. Secure your new (bestie) photographer here!
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