How to Get Married in Houston
Getting married is an exciting and momentous occasion in one’s life. If you’re considering tying the knot in Houston, Texas, you’re in for a treat. With its vibrant culture, diverse venues, and warm hospitality, Houston offers a plethora of options for your dream wedding. We’re here to guide you through the process of getting married in Houston, Texas, ensuring that your special day is everything you’ve ever imagined.
1. Obtain a Marriage License
The first step to getting married in Houston is to obtain a marriage license. Both parties must appear in person at one of the 11 Harris County Clerk’s Office locations and provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. The fee for a marriage license is $81, payable by cash, credit card, or money order. Once you have your license, it is valid for 90 days.
2. Choose the Perfect Venue
When looking at Houston area wedding venues, you will find a modern twist on a new world feel. The Venue 116 is an elegant and recently renovated venue that’s within an hour of the Houston area. As part of our custom wedding packages, you’ll also have access to our Champagne Suite, Whiskey Lounge and Indoor/Outdoor Ceremony areas. Almost every inch of The Venue 116 has been carefully remodeled to provide a more modern and elegant ambiance for your special event.
Don’t forget to book well in advance to secure your desired date and ensure the perfect day when you get married in Houston.
3. Hire a Professional Photographer
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and capturing those precious moments is essential. Invest in a professional photographer who can document your special day with skill and artistry. Look for photographers with experience in Houston weddings and browse their portfolios to ensure their style aligns with your vision.
4. Plan Your Menu
Food is an integral part of any wedding celebration, and Houston’s culinary scene is sure to impress. From traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors, you’ll find a wide array of catering options to suit your taste. Consider incorporating local specialties like Tex-Mex or Gulf Coast seafood to give your menu a unique Houston touch.
5. Don’t Forget the Marriage Officiant
Before you say “I do,” you’ll need to find a marriage officiant to perform the ceremony. Whether you prefer a religious or secular ceremony, Houston has a diverse range of officiants to choose from. Meet with potential officiants to discuss your ceremony preferences and ensure they are legally authorized to solemnize marriages in Texas.
6. Plan for Houston’s Weather
Houston’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to plan accordingly. Consider having a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies in case of inclement weather. If you’re getting married during the hot summer months, opt for an indoor venue with excellent air conditioning to keep your guests comfortable. Take a look at our guide on the best month to get married in Texas to help plan around the weather.
7. Enjoy Houston’s Attractions
While planning your wedding, take advantage of Houston’s many attractions and make it a memorable experience for you and your guests. From world-class museums to beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone. Encourage your guests to explore the city and provide them with a list of recommended activities and attractions.
Getting married in Houston, Texas, is an unforgettable experience. By following these steps and taking advantage of all that Houston has to offer, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
“We were so blessed to find the Venue 116! I was a little overwhelmed with the idea of coordinating such a big event for 170 people but the Venue 116 accommodated us accordingly. Not only did they ease our nerves going up to the event but they also referred us wonderful vendors that helped the party go on. I felt like this all inclusive package was a true white glove service.”
“Great place to host your event! Picturesque historic setting, great service, great staff! Huge parking lot, and beautiful garden setting for that perfect garden wedding ceremony! Huge grand ballroom, and bridal suite. More than meets the eye!”
"We celebrated my moms 60th birthday at the Cotton Gin 116 and it was everything we wanted it to be. We hired a mariachi band and used the outdoor area in the courtyard. So gorgeous with the lights, fountain and atmosphere. My mom was so happy with the way her party turned out. I would highly recommend this place. It is ran by an efficient staff. Very accommodating. I will be back in the future for sure. The interior was really pretty too."
"A hidden gem in Brookshire. Minutes away from the Katy city limits but worth the drive. A beautiful venue for any special event, especially a wedding. The outdoor area is beautiful at night and the staff is very cordial."
"This is a beautiful space for any couple that wants a unique and historical venue for their wedding. There are so many different areas in this venue for amazing photos. The antique looking bars give you the feeling of one of those old bars still around in Houston. I mean they’re really cool looking! Also the staff is amazing. They are so sweet and helpful. And you definitely get the feeling that they love what they do. Highly recommended the Cotton Gin 116."
"Absolutely loved this venue! Our wedding was amazing here! The staff was super helpful and were there with answers to any questions we had! Absolutely recommend them."
Arranged to get a tour of the place to see if it was going to be the right fit for our wedding. They were very welcoming, super informative and detailed. They have the flexibility we were looking for to have the perfect wedding at their venue. Additionally every question was answered which was great, so there will be no surprises and we can be comfortable moving forward with choosing this venue. Beautiful place, amazing details and character to the building.
