So, you’ve fallen in love with the idea of a courthouse wedding (who hasn’t?!), and you’ve seen those jaw-dropping photos on the grand marble steps of the Byron White Courthouse in downtown Denver. I get it, this place looks straight out of a vintage movie scene! But before you grab your bouquet and head downtown, there’s one tiny detail to know…
You can’t actually get legally married at the Byron White Courthouse. It’s a common misconception I get on the daily in my contact form! Yep, it’s technically a federal courthouse, not one that handles civil ceremonies. But don’t worry! This doesn’t mean it’s off the table for your dream wedding photos or an intimate vow exchange. In fact, most of my couples do exactly that—get legally married at another courthouse nearby, then head over to the Byron White Courthouse for stunning portraits or a mini ceremony on the steps!
Why Couples Love the Byron White Courthouse
The Byron White Courthouse is one of Denver’s most breathtaking spots for wedding portraits for good reason. Between the towering white columns, intricate stone details, and timeless architecture, it gives you that romantic, vintage “running away to the courthouse” feel.
This building has become a favorite backdrop for couples who love that classic courthouse aesthetic but want a bit more drama in their photos. Whether you’re wearing a sleek city-chic outfit or a full wedding gown, those marble steps always deliver.
How to Make It Work
1. Get your marriage certificate First
Since you can’t get your legal marriage certificate at the Byron White Courthouse itself, you’ll need to head to a nearby location to make things official. Check out my blog on Denver Courthouses You Can Get Married At (that’s your go-to guide for where to snag your marriage license). Keep in mind that just because you get your marriage certificate at a nearby courthouse, it doesn’t mean you have to sign it and make it official there! You can always bring your marriage certificate over to Byron White!
2. Head to the Byron White Courthouse for Portraits
Some of my couples go the route of legally getting married at another courthouse and even get married by a judge! Then we’d head to Byron White for those romantic, editorial style shots. The steps, the doors, the arches, and everything in between!
3. Share Your Vows on the Steps
You can still have your ceremony at Byron White if you’d like! You can exchange personal vows, have a friend officiate a short ceremony, or simply take a quiet moment together to celebrate your love.
4. Make It a Micro Wedding Moment
Want to include your closest people? You totally can! Many couples choose to host a tiny micro wedding right there on the steps, complete with a short ceremony and photos around the area! (Just be respectful of foot traffic, it’s still an active courthouse!)
Why It’s Perfect for You
Timeless Architecture: The marble, the symmetry, the history, it’s all so photogenic. It’s perfect for that vintage feel.
Downtown Denver Charm: You’re steps away from fun spots for post-ceremony drinks or dinner.
Low-Stress & High-Style: No venue booking headaches, just pure focus on your love and gorgeous photos.
Let’s Create Your Byron White Courthouse Moment!
Whether you’re eloping downtown or planning an intimate micro wedding, the Byron White Courthouse is the perfect spot for portraits that feel timeless, chic, and a little cinematic. I’ll help you plan the perfect timeline, find the best light, and capture every “just married” smile along the way.
Book me today to photograph your courthouse wedding adventure! We’ll make your Byron White Courthouse session unforgettable! Filled with laughter, love, and photos that’ll make your heart skip a beat every time you look at them. CLICK HERE to inquire!
Here’s to marble steps, spontaneous love stories, and making your Denver elopement look like a scene from a classic film.
