The One with the Zurich Courthouse Civil Wedding
- Love & Life Stories ·
- Civil Weddings
Planning to get married in Switzerland most of the time begins with one important step: the civil wedding, or die Zivilhochzeit, Zivile Hochzeit or Standesamtliche Hochzeit - broadly also known as the Courthouse Wedding.
Unlike symbolic or religious ceremonies, a civil wedding is the only legally binding form of marriage in Switzerland. For many couples, it’s the intimate and personal moment where they officially say “yes” to one another before any larger celebration.
Over the years as a wedding photographer, I’ve captured civil weddings in registry offices, historic castles, lakeside pavilions, and even well known hotels that municipalities opened for the occasion.
No matter how small or large, one thing always shines through: the emotion of becoming legally married.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about civil weddings (courthouse weddings) in Switzerland - from the paperwork and process to the most beautiful locations, budget examples, and ideas to make your day unforgettable.
Content of this Guide:
- Definition Civil Wedding in Switzerland + Civil Costs
- Things To Consider Before Choosing the Location + Top Location List
- How to Plan Your Civil Wedding in Switzerland
- How to Make Your Civil Wedding More Than Just a Signature
- Your Wedding Timeline & Budget Guide
- Creative Civil Wedding Ideas
What's the Definition of a Civil Wedding in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, a civil wedding is the official marriage ceremony conducted by the state. It’s required by law: without it, you are not legally married, regardless of whether you plan a church or symbolic ceremony afterward.
Civil weddings are performed by a registrar at a registry office (Zivilstandsamt or Courthouse). Depending on the canton, couples may also have the option to hold the ceremony in special locations, such as historic halls, castles, gardens, or lakeside venues approved by the municipality.
What happens during a civil ceremony?
- The ceremony typically lasts 20-30 minutes unless you choose the long or super short version.
- The registrar welcomes you and reads out the legal articles about marriage.
- You exchange vows (formal consent), and if you like, rings.
- You and your witnesses sign the marriage register.
- Friends and family can often read poems, play music, or add personal touches, depending on the canton’s rules and your likings.
Documents and requirements
To get married, you’ll need to submit an application to your local Zivilstandsamt. Required documents usually include:
- Valid passports or ID cards
- Birth certificates
- Proof of residency
- For foreign nationals: certificates of no impediment or other official documents, depending on your country of origin
The registry office will review your documents and confirm your eligibility to marry. Once approved, you can get married.
If both of you - or one of you - isn't a Swiss citizen, this page will help you.
Costs of a Civil Wedding
Every registry office works a little differently, but in principle, the regulations and fee structures for getting married are the same across Switzerland. The exact prices for additional services, however, vary from office to office.
It’s important to understand that a civil wedding is as individual as each couple - and so are the financial costs connected to it. This also depends on which documents and services are required. Do yourself a favor and contact the registry office of your place of residence as early as possible, even if you don’t yet have a desired wedding date. That way, you can clarify in advance which documents and preparations are necessary.
This is especially important for international couples, as certain documents may need to be obtained from other countries. The general recommendation is to reach out to your local registry office 8-12 months in advance - partly to secure your preferred date, but above all to find out exactly which documents you will need.
From marriage certificates to family record books to interpreter services - the Zurich registry office, for example, provides everything you need for your marriage license and civil ceremony. This also means that the costs of a civil wedding can range anywhere from CHF 255 to over CHF 855. All the necessary information and contact forms can be found on the website of the respective registry office.
Additional fees may apply if you choose a special venue, request a translator, or hold the wedding on a weekend.
When to book your civil ceremony date and time
Civil ceremonies can usually be booked around 6 months in advance, though rules differ depending on the canton. If you have your heart set on a popular venue, start early.
Things To Consider Before Choosing the Location + Top Location List
Your civil wedding location sets the tone for your entire celebration - whether it’s just the two of you or a full gathering with family and friends. Before choosing a registry office or an external venue, it’s worth taking a moment to think about what kind of atmosphere, accessibility, and experience you want.
Some cantons allow civil ceremonies outside the official registry offices - for example, in historic buildings, gardens, or even lakeside hotels - while others are more traditional and offer only limited spaces.
Each location comes with its own requirements, time slots, and guest capacities, so it’s good to research early and secure your preferred date.
Here are some of the most beautiful and unique spots across Switzerland that make saying “yes” even more memorable - but first, let's cover what you have to consider before choosing your location for your Courthouse Civil Wedding in Switzerland:
the Guest List
Luckily, four people are already decided: you - the wedding couple - and your witnesses. That’s one step less in the dance around the guest list.
Think about who you want to have with you in the room during the ceremony, and who will be invited only for the culinary part of the celebration. It’s also important to consider how much space the ceremony room actually has. This alone can help you decide whether to expand the group - or, if necessary, to reduce it.
The number of people in your party will also depend on whether you’re planning a larger wedding celebration later. The fact is: you can and should invite whoever you truly want to be there, as long as the size of your group realistically fits your budget.
If you want your civil wedding and celebration to be just in the closest circle, make it clear to your loved ones who may bring a guest and who may not. A tip from us: write down all invited persons - both in the address field and in the salutation on the invitation.
the Location
Almost every registry office offers different ceremony locations for your civil wedding. When you contact the registry office of your choice (or of your residence city), be sure to ask right away about possible venues and alternatives to the official ceremony room if you don't like their default option.
In Zurich, for example, you can be married not only in the central Zunfthaus zur Waag, but also at the Zurich Zoo or The Dolder Grand. For such “external weddings” at one of these locations, you should expect an additional cost of up to CHF 1,000. This amount depends on the chosen venue and is billed directly by the external location.
Top 5 Locations in Zurich
You can book all these location via the official Stadt Zurich page here.
Besides the ceremony room and the location itself, don’t forget about the program surrounding your wedding. Think ahead about catering options in the area and, of course, where you’ll take your photos. The last thing you want is to rush through half of Switzerland (or even half the city during rush hour).
Your civil wedding also deserves to be an incredibly beautiful and stress-free celebration of your love. Look into restaurants or bars nearby where you can host a relaxed apéro right after signing the papers. How and where this takes place is entirely up to you and your wishes. The good news: there are plenty of wonderful and delicious options everywhere. Just keep in mind that this too requires a bit of early planning.
Unique Civil Wedding Venues Across Switzerland
Here are some other locations scattered across Switzerland that I haven’t mentioned yet in the blog post.
Each of these venues is unique in its own way, offering stunning backdrops and memorable experiences for your civil wedding - definitely worth a closer look!
AARGAU
This neo-Gothic villa, built between 1895 and 1897, is nestled within Baden's most significant private park. The villa offers a light-filled garden hall for intimate civil ceremonies, complemented by French-style gardens and tranquil ponds, providing a picturesque setting for your special day.
One of Switzerland’s most beautiful moated castles, with historic rooms and a courtyard for intimate civil ceremonies.
BASEL
For art enthusiasts, this contemporary art museum provides a unique and creative venue for civil ceremonies, blending culture with celebration.
Nestled in the Merian Gardens in Münchenstein, this Baroque manor offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for a romantic civil ceremony.
A historic castle near Basel with private rooms ideal for small civil ceremonies and receptions.
BERN
Overlooking Lake Thun, this medieval castle provides a romantic atmosphere with options for indoor ceremonies and outdoor receptions in its lush gardens.
Overlooking Lake Thun, this medieval castle offers a romantic setting with a garden room perfect for intimate civil ceremonies.
A historic castle in the Emmental Valley with indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for civil ceremonies.
With its distinctive 19th-century architecture and lakefront location, Schloss Schadau offers a wedding setting where classic charm meets refined hospitality.
LUCERNE
Perched above the city, this hotel offers stunning lake views and a private funicular, combining luxury with historical charm for your ceremony.
Overlooking Lucerne, this fairytale castle provides stunning lake and mountain views, perfect for a regal civil wedding.
ST. GALLEN
Combining modern amenities with historical ambiance, this venue offers tailored wedding packages, including ceremony, reception, and accommodations.
Luxury resort offering elegant indoor venues and full wedding planning support for civil ceremonies.
TICINO
Situated on the Brissago Islands, this villa offers an intimate setting with panoramic views of Lake Maggiore, accommodating up to 45 guests.
This neoclassical villa surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking Lake Lugano provides an elegant setting for a civil wedding ceremony.
VAUD
Nestled in the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, this vineyard offers breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, ideal for a picturesque outdoor ceremony.
ZURICH
Exchange vows amidst the roar of Europe's largest waterfall. The historic castle offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony options, providing a dramatic backdrop for your special day.
Perched above Zurich, this luxury hotel combines classic château architecture with modern design and offers elegant settings for civil weddings.
Many of the locations are authorized for civil wedding ceremonies in Switzerland. However, it's essential to note that while these venues are approved, they often require an additional fee for hosting civil ceremonies outside the standard registry office.
This fee typically ranges from CHF 500 to CHF 1'000, depending on the venue and municipality. It's advisable to consult directly with the respective registry office to confirm the specific requirements and fees associated with each location.
How to Plan Your Civil Wedding in Switzerland
While the legal side may sound formal, the beauty of a civil wedding lies in its flexibility. Some couples choose to keep it private - just the two of them, maybe with witnesses - while others invite close family and friends to join them.
Steps to plan your courthouse civil wedding:
- Contact your local registry office to learn about required documents and available ceremony dates.
- Submit your paperwork early. Processing times vary, so plan ahead, especially if you’re an international couple.
- Decide on your location. Will you marry in the official registry hall, or choose a special venue like a castle or lakeside room?
- Consider your guests. Registry offices often have limited seating, so think carefully about your guest list.
- Book your vendors. Even for a small civil wedding, you may want a photographer, florist for a bouquet, and perhaps a hair & makeup artist.
- Plan a celebration afterward. From a champagne apéro on the town square to a private dinner at your favorite restaurant, this is where you can add personal flair.
Timing your civil wedding
Many couples in Switzerland marry civilly during the week (Tuesday–Friday). This makes it easier to secure dates and is often less expensive. A weekend wedding may be possible, but expect higher fees and less vendors being available for smaller service packages.
Insider tip: A weekday civil wedding can be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with your closest family and save the bigger party for later. I’ve photographed couples who married on a Thursday in the Zürich Stadthaus, followed by a Friday night dinner, and then hosted their big Tuscany wedding months later. It’s a flexible approach that lets you truly enjoy both moments.
Keep in mind that civil wedding regulations in Switzerland can vary significantly between cantons and even between municipalities. Some registry offices allow outdoor ceremonies or external venues, while others are strictly held indoors. Languages, documentation, and timing can also differ - especially if one or both of you are not Swiss citizens.
Always check directly with your local Zivilstandsamt / Courthouse early on to confirm what’s possible in your chosen canton and to avoid last-minute surprises.
Don’t Forget These Essentials on the Day Of
Very important not to forget: make sure you and your witnesses (Trauzeuge/Trauzeugin) bring your IDs on the day of the ceremony! It sounds obvious, but I’ve seen it happen more than once - and while it can make for a funny story (like your photographer or uncle suddenly stepping in as a last-minute witness), it’s not ideal if you really want your chosen people to sign that paper.
Tip: If one of you is taking the other person’s surname, you’ll need to sign with your new name that day - so maybe give it a quick practice beforehand.
How to Make Your Civil Wedding More Than Just a Signature
So far, we’ve covered what a civil (courthouse) wedding actually is, how to choose the right location, and how to plan the very essentials (bureaucratic, yes - but necessary!). Now comes the exciting part: all the details that make the day feel truly yours.
What will you wear? How do you want to style yourself? Who will be there to document every moment for you to look at forever? And most importantly - how and where will you raise a glass, share a bite, and celebrate this incredible bond well into the night?
Let’s dive into all the ways you can make your civil wedding as unique, stylish, and unforgettable as your love story.
Your Wedding Gown & Suits
You should feel comfortable and like yourself in your outfit, whether you plan to spend a lot or a little. A good rule of thumb for finding your civil wedding outfit is three to five months in advance, as you’ll also need to account for delivery times and any necessary alterations. Even if you purchase a dress or suit off the rack, adjustments are likely needed, which take additional time.
The same applies to suits - the key is to allow extra buffer time rather than risk having a half-finished outfit on your wedding day. This advice applies both to your big wedding celebration and to your civil wedding attire.
Find some of my favourite Civil Wedding Outfits here:
Zoro
PiqyourDress
Photography and Videography
Who doesn’t love reliving special moments through photos and videos? Capturing your civil ceremony is especially important if it will be your only wedding ceremony - but not only. For a civil wedding film, a minimum of three hours of coverage is usually necessary to create a beautiful story - similar to photography, where most packages start at two hours.
The exact duration and price depend on the style, professionalism, and package content. On average, you can expect to budget at least CHF 2,000 for a three-hour session from a professional, and it’s recommended to make first contact with your photographer and videographer six to eight months in advance.
For this part, these are my favourite vendors:
MaxwellArt Photograhy (myself for Photography obviously)
Styling
Even at a civil wedding, the couple deserves to feel completely comfortable and beautiful. A bride’s styling depends on her personal wishes and the professional expertise of the stylist. Beyond the desired hair and makeup style, considerations include the wedding outfit and the bride’s facial features and personal style. The goal is for the bride to remain herself - but with that special touch we like to call magic!
Here, too, the rule is: the earlier you book, the better. For civil weddings during the week, three to five months in advance is usually sufficient; for weekend weddings, earlier is recommended. On the day itself, styling typically requires two to three hours.
Want to know more - here's my Mini Bride Styling Guide.
My favourite professional Hair & Make Up Artists when it comes to natural bridal Styling:
Floral Arrangements
Flowers provide a beautiful finishing touch to every wedding celebration, and in my opinion, they shouldn’t be overlooked at a civil wedding either. For civil ceremonies, this usually means a bridal bouquet and some smaller decorations, so contacting your florist three to five months in advance is typically sufficient.
The cost of a bridal bouquet varies depending on the flowers used, the size, and the complexity, but you can generally expect to spend between CHF 150 and CHF 250 for a beautiful but simple bridal bouquet.
Music & Atmosphere
Music truly transforms your civil wedding into something magical. Whether it’s a live musician during the ceremony or a curated playlist for your aperitif, the right soundtrack brings warmth, personality, and emotion to every moment.
If you want something extra special, I can highly recommend DeinDJ.ch - they have an extend list of incredible DJ's and musicians who know exactly how to read the room and create that effortless, elegant musical vibe that elevates the entire day.
Remember
Every vendor works differently and will likely have their own timelines and pricing. There are suitable service providers for every budget - the key is to find the ones who fit you and your vision perfectly.
Best Culinary Venues for Civil Weddings in Switzerland
After your civil ceremony - whether it’s an intimate moment or a full celebration - choosing the right spot for drinks, bites, or a full meal is key to keeping the joy flowing.
From elegant restaurants to charming local gems, here’s a curated selection of venues across Switzerland where you can toast, snack, and celebrate your love in style.
As I have photographed most of my courthouse civil weddings in Zurich and Lucerne, there are naturally more recommendations for these areas - but I’m always updating the list as I discover new hidden gems.
LUCERNE
Luxury resort offering panoramic views of Lake Lucerne, with multiple dining options.
Ideal for: Full wedding celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, spa, golf course, helicopter ride.
Seasonal availability: Perfect for both summer and winter.
Fairytale castle offering stunning views of Lucerne and elegant event spaces.
Ideal for: Full wedding celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, bridal suites.
Seasonal availability: Ideal for both summer and winter.
Elegant lakeside hotel with a private beach and gourmet dining options.
Ideal for: Full wedding celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, spa, private beach.
Seasonal availability: Best in summer; indoor options for winter.
Historic villa on the shores of Lake Lucerne with elegant interiors and a stunning park for outdoor moments.
Ideal for: Full wedding celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Nearby luxury hotels, trusted local vendors, floristry, entertainment
Seasonal availability: Summer for the terrace & park; winter for the beautifully decorated indoor halls
Boutique hotel offering panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and a private spa.
Ideal for: Cocktail Hour or Intimate wedding celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, spa, helicopter rides.
Seasonal availability: Ideal for both summer and winter.
ZURICH
Modern lakeside hotel offering stylish indoor and outdoor spaces with panoramic views.
Ideal for: Cocktail hour, lunch/dinner, or full celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, spa, lakeside terrace.
Seasonal availability: Great for summer; winter options available.
Historic hotel with elegant event spaces and a private park overlooking Lake Zurich.
Ideal for: Cocktail Hour, lunch/dinner, or full wedding celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, bridal suites, spa.
Seasonal availability: Ideal for both summer and winter.
Luxury hotel blending traditional and modern design, offering panoramic views and world-class dining.
Ideal for: Cocktail Hour, lunch/dinner, or full wedding celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, spa, golf course.
Seasonal availability: Perfect for summer & winter.
Seaside restaurant with Mediterranean ambiance and a focus on grilled specialties.
Ideal for: Cocktail hour or lunch/dinner.
Add-ons bookable: Private dining areas.
Seasonal availability: Best in summer; indoor seating for winter.
Modern restaurant and bar with a prime location on Lake Zurich, offering high-quality cuisine.
Ideal for: Cocktail hour or lunch/dinner.
Add-ons bookable: Private event spaces.
Seasonal availability: Suitable for both summer and winter.
Charming café in the heart of Zurich, offering refined cuisine in a cozy setting.
Ideal for: Cocktail hour or lunch/dinner.
Add-ons bookable: Private event spaces.
Seasonal availability: Ideal for winter; limited outdoor seating.
Waterside restaurant with a relaxed vibe, offering seafood and Italian cuisine.
Ideal for: Cocktail hour or lunch/dinner
Add-ons bookable: Private event spaces.
Seasonal availability: Best in summer; indoor seating for winter.
Historic hotel with elegant event spaces and a riverside terrace in the heart of Zurich.
Ideal for: Cocktail hour, lunch/dinner, or full celebration.
Add-ons bookable: Hotel rooms, bridal suites.
Seasonal availability: Suitable for both summer and winter.
And if you're looking for something a bit bigger, and maybe even for your big wedding celebration, check out my list of my top 10 All-Inclusive Wedding Venues in Switzerland.
Your Wedding Timeline & Budget Guide
Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting - and sometimes overwhelming - journeys you’ll ever take.
From choosing your dream venue to finalizing all the little details, having a clear timeline and realistic budget can make the entire process smoother and far less stressful.
This guide helps you stay on top of things, plan ahead with confidence, and create space to truly enjoy your engagement.
The Planning Timeline
Planning a civil wedding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or drag on forever. With the right structure, you’ll know exactly when to tackle each step while keeping things stress-free. Here’s a clear timeline to guide you through the essentials - giving you plenty of time without overcomplicating the process:
8-12 months before
- Think about what kind of civil wedding you want (intimate, festive, minimal, luxurious?)
- Research possible registry offices and additional ceremony locations in Switzerland
- Initial inquiry at the civil registry office - even without a fixed date, you can clarify requirements and necessary documents
- Make a rough draft of your guest list
6-8 months before
- Book photography & videography to ensure availability
- First fittings for wedding attire (dress, suit, or alternative outfit)
- Decide whether you want wedding rings for the civil wedding and begin looking at options
3-5 months before
- Book hair & makeup stylist
- Book florist (bouquet, boutonnière, or light décor)
- Confirm guest list and send proper invites with details (if needed)
- Plan your aperitif or dinner concept: restaurant, catered event, or private celebration
1-2 months before
- Book the location for aperitif & meal (restaurant, terrace, hotel, or bar)
- Finalize details with all vendors (styling schedule, flower delivery, photography timeline, etc.)
- Purchase wedding rings, if not done already
- Prepare your vows or personal words (if you’d like to add a symbolic touch)
1-2 weeks before
- Final fitting for your attire and pick up rings
- Share the timeline with your photographer, stylist, and close family/friends involved
- Double-check all bookings and reservations
- Relax and focus on enjoying the build-up!
Please remember: this timeline is just a basic suggestion. Every civil wedding is unique, and your planning may need more (or less) time depending on your circumstances.
- If you’re getting married during the European high wedding season (May to October), start even earlier - the most popular dates and vendors book out quickly.
- If you’re planning a weekday wedding (Monday to Thursday), you’ll likely have more flexibility and availability.
- If your guest list is larger than 30 people and you’re planning more than just a casual cocktail hour, contact restaurants or venues well in advance, as they often require longer lead times and can book out easily.
The earlier you start, the smoother and more enjoyable the process will be - leaving you with more space to soak in the joy of your engagement.
The Wedding Day Timeline
Here are two examples for a Courthouse Wedding Day Timeline:
The Civil Ceremony is in the morning
Styling: 7:30
First Look: 10:00
Ceremony: 11:00
Group Photos: 11:30
Photo Shoot: 12:00
Cocktail Hour: 12:30
Lunch: 13:30
The Civil Ceremony is in the afternoon:
Styling: 11:30
First Look: 14:00
Ceremony: 15:00
Group Photos: 15:30
Photo Shoot: 16:00
Cocktail Hour: 16:30
Dinner: 18:00
Budget Example
Here's an example of the Financial Investment for a Civil Wedding in Zurich with 30 Guests (based on the planning timelines above).
To give you a realistic picture, here’s a sample budget breakdown for a civil wedding in Zurich with around 30 guests. Of course, the exact costs will depend on your style, preferences, and season - but this gives you a good starting point:
Registry Office & Civil Ceremony: CHF 500
Photography & Videography: CHF 5'000
Drinks & Food: CHF 3'500
Outfits for the Couple: CHF 4'000
Wedding Rings (for both): CHF 5'000
Hair & Makeup (one person): CHF 1'000
Bridal Bouquet & Small Floral Décor: CHF 500
Accessories & Extras: CHF 1'500
Total Estimated Investment: CHF 21'000
Every person, every couple, and of course every wedding is unique and special. Everyone has different priorities, and with that comes a different willingness to invest financially.
Registry offices generally have roughly the same prices. However, where larger price differences occur is in all the other services you might hire for the day.
Remember
Every vendor works differently and will likely have their own timelines and pricing. There are suitable service providers for every budget - the key is to find the ones who fit you and your vision perfectly.
The average prices in the Budget Example are based on professional vendors in a mid-range category. Of course, you’ll find options on both ends of the spectrum - some less experienced vendors who charge less, and others with years of expertise or a very distinctive style who charge more.
You choose what feels right for you and what aligns with your priorities and budget. No judgement, ever.
Creative Civil Wedding Ideas
Your civil wedding doesn’t have to be just signing papers and a quick photo - it can be a celebration that reflects your personality, your love story, and your style.
From intimate rituals to creative touches, and memorable experiences, there are countless ways to make your civil ceremony feel truly special.
I’m sharing some of the most unique civil wedding celebration ideas I’ve seen, to inspire you to celebrate your love in a way that’s completely your own.
Ceremony + Celebration Combo
Civil + Dinner Party at Home or in a Restaurant:
Instead of separating the civil and the “real” wedding, turn your civil ceremony into an elegant dinner celebration with your closest friends and family. Book a private dining room or host an intimate garden dinner with live music or a private chef.
Civil Ceremony & Celebration at the Same Venue
Another beautiful way to celebrate is to host your civil ceremony close to your wedding venue. That way you can start the day with the legal part surrounded by your closest people, then seamlessly transition into your symbolic ceremony, cocktail hour, and dinner without anyone having to move or rush too much. It keeps the whole day relaxed, beautifully cohesive, and allows you to fully stay in the moment.
Destination Civil Wedding:
Combine your legal ceremony with a short getaway - think a few days in the mountains, at a vineyard, or by the sea. You can turn your civil wedding into a mini-honeymoon.
Weekend Celebration:
If your venue allows it, turn the day into a weekend experience. Start with the civil wedding on Friday, have a relaxed BBQ or pool party, and celebrate the symbolic ceremony the next day.
Transportation Ideas
Vintage Car or Retro Vespa: Especially charming for smaller city weddings - it adds a touch of nostalgia and looks great in photos.
Tram Ride or Vintage Bus: Next to taking your guests on a special tram ride through the city, another lovely twist is a vintage bus or trolley ride where guests can sip prosecco and enjoy the city views between locations.
Horse-Drawn Carriage: A classic that can feel whimsical if it fits the location such as if your Courthouse Civil Wedding is in an Alps Town.
Hot Air Balloon, Cable Car or an Helicopter Flight: For couples who want something adventurous but still elegant - imagine saying your vows at the top of a mountain after your civil ceremony.
Personal Touches to the Ceremony
Personal Vows or a Reading: Even though the civil ceremony is legally formal, you can ask your officiant if you can add a short reading, personal vows, or a small symbolic gesture (like exchanging flowers or lighting a candle).
Alternatively, I always suggest to my couples to have a private and intimate vow exchange either before or after the ceremony - for example, during our photo session. It’s a beautiful moment just for the two of you, without anyone else around, where you can truly express your feelings and say everything you might not want to in front of others. This is your day, you can do whatever you want!
Bring a Musician or Live Singer: Music instantly adds warmth. A violinist, pianist, or acoustic guitarist can transform even the simplest ceremony.
Involve Loved Ones: Have someone close to you do a short speech or reading after the ceremony — it makes the moment feel more personal and emotional.
Celebration Enhancers
Post-Ceremony Toast or Mini Reception: Instead of rushing off, organize an aperitif right outside the courthouse - prosecco, canapés, and music.
City Walk or Photo Tour: Plan a relaxed walk through your favourite part of town with your photographer - it’s both romantic and a lovely memory.
Boat Aperitif or Picnic: I have already mentioned a boat ride, which is amazing. A picnic setup at the lake or park afterwards is another beautiful, low-key idea.
Small Performance or Surprise: A saxophonist waiting outside, a flash mob from friends, or even a surprise video message from loved ones who couldn’t attend (send this to your best friends hehe).
Memorable Keepsakes
Guest Book Alternatives: For smaller civil weddings, you can do a Polaroid guest book or have guests write notes for a “time capsule” you open on your first anniversary.
Custom Decor Elements: Even for a civil setting, bring a few floral arrangements, candles, or a small arch - it makes the space feel like you.
Matching Details: Coordinated accessories like matching boutonnières, colour themes, or even a signature perfume you both wear - small but meaningful details that make the day stand out
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Touches
If there’s one thing I always encourage my couples to think about, it’s celebrating consciously. Please, no balloons - ever. They’re harmful to the environment, and even “biodegradable” ones take years to disappear. A quick note to your guests about these choices makes a huge difference - especially your parents or wedding party. (they often love a surprise but might not realise the impact).
Instead, opt for sustainable or reusable alternatives: flower petals, dried leaves, or eco-friendly confetti. Many venues don’t allow natural petals for practical reasons, so check in advance and choose a compostable version instead - I’ll link my favourite sustainable confetti option here.
Small swaps like this make a big difference and still look stunning in photos if this might concern you.
Last but Not Least
A civil wedding doesn’t exclude a symbolic or larger celebration - and vice versa. You can celebrate as many times as you like, and most importantly, you can do it however you want. To make the most of your engagement period, take this advice to heart: build as much buffer into your planning as possible. That way, you can focus on what truly matters and avoid stressing over minor details right before your (civil) wedding.
Remember, your civil wedding is not just a formality - it’s the moment your marriage truly begins. Whether you keep it intimate or turn it into a full celebration, make sure it feels like you. The paperwork might make it official, but the way you celebrate makes it unforgettable.
If you’re currently planning your civil wedding and want to capture it in the most authentic, emotional, and timeless way, I’d love to hear your story. Let’s create something beautiful togethe
The Team
For this blog post, I reached out to some of my favorite local vendors to share their approach, opinions, and experiences in their own field - so you can get the best insights for your own civil wedding. Most of the text, recommendations and insights are from me - Max.
You can learn more about these amazing professionals here:
Photography & Author of this blog post: MaxwellArt Photography
Videography: Gomango Videography
Hair & Makeup: Tanja Marthy
The Courthouse: Zivilstandsamt Zurich
Jewellery: LaMano Jewellery
Bridal Gowns: Philia & Agape
Groom Suits: faade
Restaurant: LUX Zurich
Floral: TM Flowers