Getting Married at the Travis County Courthouse: What You Need to Know

Written By Eli Samuel

If you’re planning a courthouse wedding in Austin—especially at the historic Travis County Courthouse (Precinct 5)—this post will walk you through everything you need to know.

Judge & Ceremony Location

Your wedding ceremony can be officiated by Judge Rick Olivo, who currently presides at Precinct 5 in the Travis County Courthouse located on Guadalupe Street.

Obtaining Your Marriage License

  • You can get your license at any Travis County Clerk’s office—the main one is at 5501 Airport Boulevard, Austin, TX 78751. Both parties must appear in person with ID.

    👉 Marriage License – Travis County Clerk

  • The fee is $80, unless you qualify for the $20 Texas Twogether Program discount.

  • The license is valid for up to 89 days and expires on the 90th.

Ceremony Logistics

  • The ceremony takes place inside the courtroom on the first floor of 1000 Guadalupe St, Suite 112.

  • It lasts only 5–10 minutes, so couples often decide whether to do photos before or after the ceremony.

  • Options for photos:

    • Before: calm, fresh looks, and pre-ceremony glow.

    • After: joyful, celebratory energy with backdrops like the courthouse steps, the nearby live oak, or the adjacent park.

👉 Schedule Your Courthouse Ceremony – Precinct 5

Great Photo Locations Around the Courthouse

  • Courthouse steps — timeless and dramatic.

  • Nearby live oak tree — shaded and natural.

  • The Seaholm District.

  • The Capitol — inside or outside.

  • Butler Park — skyline views.

  • Commodore Perry Estate — if you book a stay and arrange permission.

Steps to Plan Your Courthouse Wedding in Austin

  1. Get your marriage license at the Travis County Clerk’s Office.

  2. Schedule your courthouse ceremony at Precinct 5.

  3. Choose your photo timing — before or after the ceremony.

  4. Pick your photo locations — from the courthouse to nearby landmarks.

  5. Book your photographer (that’s me!) to handle logistics and capture the day beautifully. You can book directly here:

    👉 Schedule with Eli Samuel Photography

Why Choose a Courthouse Wedding?

Courthouse weddings are efficient, intimate, and flexible. They may last just 10–15 minutes, but with thoughtful planning and the right photographer, they can become deeply meaningful.

Pro tip: Book the earliest or latest appointment of the day to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photos.

Final Thoughts

A Travis County Courthouse wedding blends simplicity with elegance. Whether you capture photos before or after the ceremony, the courthouse and surrounding areas provide timeless backdrops for your day.

Eli Samuel

From Christian Pastor to Fine Art Photographer: A Journey of Inner Reflection and Artistic Expression

Eli Samuel's artistic odyssey embodies the essence of intentional self-discovery and profound visual artistry. Hailing from Australia and raised in Thailand by missionary parents in the Pentecostal Christian Church, Eli found himself following in his father's footsteps, becoming a pastor in his early twenties. However, it was during this time that his passion for photography began to bloom, initially as a mere pastime alongside his devoted clergy work. Little did he know that this newfound artistic pursuit would become a catalyst for personal growth, forever altering the trajectory of his life.

For Eli, the human body is an awe-inspiring canvas—a masterpiece waiting to be immortalized through his lens. With every photograph, he seeks to capture the depth of emotions etched upon a subject's face, the captivating stories emanating from their eyes, and the tactile textures of their diverse skin. Through his art, Eli delves into the essence of human existence, unraveling its enigmatic nature and wholeheartedly celebrating its extraordinary diversity.

Transitioning from the role of a Christian pastor to that of a fine art photographer was not without its trials for Eli. The conservatism ingrained by his religious upbringing, coupled with the apprehensions surrounding lust and sexuality, created an internal conflict that demanded resolution. Yet, his unwavering dedication to his craft empowered him to embrace his true self and candidly express his desires in a manner that exuded breathtaking beauty and genuine authenticity.

Eli's photography weaves an enchanting love story—a heartfelt homage to the human body and the kaleidoscope of emotions it evokes. His images serve as mirrors, reflecting the profound connections he strives to forge with his subjects and the wider world. Through his lens, he captures the very essence of the human experience, unveiling the resplendent allure and intricate complexities inherent in every form.

Eli's artistic voyage stands as a resounding testament to the transformative power of self-expression and the profound beauty concealed within the unlikeliest of places. As he continues to explore and refine his craft, he remains steadfastly devoted to his core values of love, connection, and authenticity. Guided by these principles, he endeavors to create art that not only captivates the senses but also resonates deeply within the hearts and minds of all who bear witness.

"My art represents my unwavering commitment to be true to myself, unburdened by preconceived notions or societal expectations," Eli Samuel proclaims, encapsulating the very essence of his artistic pursuit.

https://www.eli-samuel.com