Things to consider on your wedding Day
Please feel free to always communicate your needs, whatever they may be.
Whatever the day brings, I’m here to help make this process as stress-free and welcoming as possible. Above all else, my goal is for you two to enjoy this time together, to feel seen, and to remember what matters most.
Every City Hall wedding unfolds differently. Some couples bring flowers or a few close friends, some keep it just the two of them. Whatever shape yours takes, I’ll adjust with you — weaving together the bigger moments with the small, unscripted ones in between.
Check-In
(Ceremony Appointment)
About 10–15 minutes before your ceremony time, you’ll check in at the Clerk’s office. Here you’ll show your IDs and confirm your details.
This is also when your witness (or witnesses — you can have up to two) will sign the license, if you are having a public marriage.
Afterward, you’ll be asked to wait in the designated area until your names are called.
I usually don’t go back into the office with you unless I’ve been asked to be your witness — which is always such an honor.
Being Called In
When your names are called over the PA system (yes, it really does feel a little like the DMV — but at least now it’s your names instead of a number!), it’s your turn.
The officiant will bring you in for a quick check and confirm a few details:
How to pronounce your names
Whether you’re exchanging rings
Where you’d like the ceremony to take place (most often the Rotunda, sometimes the 4th-floor gallery if you ask (they still may say no), or the private room option - which is not as breathtaking, trust me!)
Have your witness (or up to two, if you’d like but you’ll need to push for this) sign the license to make it official!
They’ll also let you know if you’re the first, second, or last couple in that time slot, and then direct you to meet at the Rotunda when it’s your turn.
This little moment is actually helpful — if you’re not first, it usually means we can sneak in a few extra portraits on the second floor while we wait.
First Looks (if you choose one)
If time allows, we can fit in a first look before check-in.
This is often one of the rare quiet pockets of the day — before the logistics begin. It doesn’t have to be posed or dramatic; it’s simply a chance to see each other, breathe, and ground yourselves in what the day is really about.
I’ll step back and let the moment be yours, quietly documenting it as it unfolds.
Your Ceremony
The ceremony itself is short and sweet — usually 3–5 minutes. The officiant will guide you through every step. All you need to do is slow down: hold hands, look at each other, and let yourselves feel it.
And when it’s time for the kiss — linger just a second longer than you think you should. It feels good in the moment, and (selfishly) it also gives me the perfect chance to capture it..
Family & Group Photos
Right after the ceremony is the best time for family portraits. Everyone’s gathered and emotions are fresh.
If it feels crowded, guests can wander the building while we slip away for your portraits. If you’d rather keep everyone nearby, we’ll work with that too.
Your Portrait Time
City Hall is full of beauty: sweeping staircases, dramatic windows, tucked-away alcoves, and light that shifts throughout the day.
We’ll wander together with intention but also space for spontaneity. Don’t worry about posing — just walk, whisper, laugh, lean in. The grandeur of the building is our backdrop, but the story is you.
Film photography
Film photography
The Classic Exit
We’ll usually finish with a portrait outside — beneath the City Hall sign or on the steps. Friends and family can gather for cheers, confetti, or hugs, or we can keep it quiet and simple.
It doesn’t need to be big to be beautiful — it just needs to feel like you.
Gentle Notes & Tips
Access to certain galleries or staircases changes daily. Flexibility keeps things easy.
If a spot catches your eye while we’re walking, let’s pause — those detours often create favorite images.
Ceremonies don’t always run exactly on time, so building in a little buffer helps.
If you’d like to sneak in a few minutes alone toward the end, let’s carve that out. Those in-between moments often hold the most meaning.
This day doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be yours.