4 Pinterest-Worthy Courthouses for Your Texas Elopement
Are you a Texas bride considering a courthouse elopement in hopes to eliminate mom’s “small” yet constant opinions, your friends stressing you out with the minute-by-minute trend shifts, or fiancé asking if he can invite his freshman college roomie that he hasn’t spoken to in 5 years — then this is the blog for you!
As a Texas photographer, located in Caldwell County, who loves capturing genuine moments, I’ve had the privilege of documenting countless love stories within beautiful and historic walls located in decades old Texas Courthouses.
Although there are many incredible courthouses within the Lone Star State, I am going to focus on the 4 (in my opinion) most Pinterest-Worthy Courthouses in the State of Texas.
LET’S DIVE IN.
#1 Caldwell County Courthouse
I know, I know — of course this is number one on my list, BUT it isn’t just because I live in Caldwell County. The limestone walls, the infamous red sandstone, the intricate clock tower, the towering windows that let in THE most incredible light. Ugh! I could go on and on about how beautiful this courthouse photographs. Whether you decide to spend your weekend in the BBQ capital of Texas or spend the morning enjoying the square before heading to THE BIG CITY (ATX is just a quick 35-min drive northwest), this courthouse is the PERFECT backdrop for your intimate Texas courthouse elopement. If you decide to Lock Hearts in Lockhart (ha) be sure to check out a few of my local favorites: Commerce Cafe, Best Little Wine & Book Shop, Old Pal Bar or The Pearl (tell Ruben Tina sent you)!
#2 Parker County Courthouse
Okay, I know how this sounds. ANOTHER bias opinion... BUT HEAR ME OUT. I've had the big blowout wedding -- the elaborate dress, incredible florals, a bridal party that barely fit in frame, etc etc. And then... I had this: a rented yellow dress, a few of our closest friends, a couple of iPhone photos and the love of my life. And you know what? I'd choose our intimate courthouse wedding ten times over. Did I mention I married the same man twice? I'll save that for another blog (ha!).
The Parker County Courthouse is nothing short of an eye-catcher. From the intricate exterior to the floor to ceiling windows within, this 1884 courthouse is difficult to overlook. This Parker County Courthouse is located within another quaint town, Weatherford, Texas - just under 30 miles west of Fort Worth, Texas or as locals like to call it - Cowtown. There are plenty of photo ops for your intimate day whether that be on the grand staircase within, beneath the incredible windows that pour in morning light, or frolicking around the historic square -- you will not be disappointed if you decide to exchange vows in this quaint yet vibrant Texas town.
iPhone photo of my courthouse elopement 05/06/2022
#3 Tarrant County Courthouse
Did you know that the Tarrant County Courthouse was modeled after the Texas State Capitol Building in Austin, Texas? With its pink granite walls and eye-catching copper-domed clock tower, this courthouse would make an iconic backdrop to your urban Texas courthouse elopement.
Fort Worth is one of my favorite cities in Texas. I like to say that Fort Worth has a small town feel with big city perks, making this a perfect location for an unforgettable elopement weekend. The possibilities are endless when it comes to eloping in Fort Worth, Texas. Whether you want to celebrate with a weekend stay at The Drover located in the center of the infamous Fort Worth Stockyards or head over to The River District and book a stay at Fort Worth's first micro-resort, Hotel Otto, where the Pinterest-worthy photo ops are endless. It's hard to beat a Tarrant County Courthouse elopement.
#4 Bexar County Courthouse
Have you ever pictured yourself being married at a medieval European castle? If so, look no further than the Bexar County Courthouse located in the heart of San Antonio, Texas. This courthouse was built in 1896 and has become known as one of San Antonio's most spectacular buildings. The incredible architecture and design does not stop at the exterior. The interior includes grand staircases, stained glass windows, and courtrooms that are adorned with high ceilings -- creating a one-of-a-kind space for a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, San Antonio was a frequent destination for a weekend getaway growing up. Surprisingly, only recently did I realize how much this south Texas city has to offer. Whether it be the vibrant culture and cuisine of the San Antonio Riverwalk, the hidden gems within areas such as The Pearl or the lush landscape of the Japanese Tea Garden, San Antonio offers a myriad of picturesque backdrops for the elopement of your Pinterest board dreams.
Deep in the Heart of a Texas Courthouse
The decision to elope in a Texas courthouse - or a courthouse in general - is more than a practical choice; it’s an embrace of simplicity and authenticity. As we’ve explored the charm of four courthouses in Texas - and the towns they are nestled within - it becomes clear that these intimate ceremonies offer a unique and genuine way to celebrate the next - and perhaps most important - chapter of your love story.
XX,
TIna
