When you think of courthouse weddings, you might picture something quick and quiet. But Sarah and Ryan getting married at the Old Orange County Courthouse was anything but ordinary. It was intimate, intentional, and filled with so much damn love.
The Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana is a true Southern California gem. With its vintage architecture, stunning stone steps, and warm terracotta tones, it gives off timeless old-Hollywood-meets-modern-romance vibes. It’s no wonder Sarah and Ryan chose it as the spot to make it official.
First we start with the oath. The “lift your right hand” moment. The paying the cheap fee for the whole shebang. The singing of everything to make it official. And your witnesses are there too!
Sarah and Ryan’s wedding was the perfect reminder that you don’t need a massive guest list or elaborate venue to make it memorable. Just a couple deeply in love, a few favorite humans, and a whole lot of heart.
They exchanged vows in one of the little ceremony rooms, surrounded by their closest family. (And a few more on a live feed!)
Sarah wore a handmade blue dress with beautiful detail. Yes, that’s right, HOMEMADE by her Mama. Like how freaking special is that!? Ryan kept it cool and classic with a tailored suit and that proud, beaming groom energy. Together, they looked like they stepped out of a modern love story — effortlessly stylish, unmistakably in love.
As a documentary-style wedding photographer, these are the days I live for. The real moments. The belly laughs. The quick glances that say everything. From the courthouse steps to exploring throughout the interior of the courthouse, we captured it all — the quiet moments between the chaos and the loud ones bursting with joy.
(Pro tip: getting married at the Old Orange County Courthouse leave so much room for creativity! Like in this other Courthouse Wedding here)
If you’re considering a courthouse wedding, especially at the Old Orange County Courthouse, do it. It’s perfect for couples who want something simple, meaningful, and stress-free without sacrificing beauty or emotion.
And if you want someone to photograph every second of it — from the legal stuff to the stolen kisses in the stairwell — I got you.
Want your own intimate courthouse love story documented?
Let’s make magic together. Reach out here and let’s start planning something perfectly you. Learn more about Old Orange County Courthouse Civil Ceremonies here.
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PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN LONG BEACH CA SERVING SOCAL + BAY AREA + BEYOND
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