Because of some unique laws related to getting married, a Washington DC elopement doesn’t have to involve anyone but the two people getting married. Couples marrying in DC have the option to self-certify (aka “marry themselves”) and therefore don’t need an officiant.
Not all couples who marry in the district (or even who are pictured here) opted for this, of course. You can still go to the courthouse, hire an officiant to marry you in a place of your choosing or have a ceremony in a place of worship. But the self-certifying option exists and makes for a really private, low-key ceremony. In my opinion, it’s romance with a modern twist.
Not all couples who self-certify elope. I’ve photographed Washington DC weddings with a hundred guests and no officiant. But often couples who opt to self-certify are eloping and it’s so fun to help them plan exactly the day they imagine.
Planning a Washington DC elopement? (I work with couples in Maryland and Virginia too!) Get in touch and let’s chat!
Additional elopement photography and inspiration is on my Pinterest page!