The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Nebraska

Thinking about skipping the big wedding and planning something a little more intimate? You’re in the right place. As an experienced Nebraska wedding photographer, I’ve had the absolute joy of documenting thoughtful, fashion-forward elopements all across the state, especially in and around Omaha. I can tell you this: eloping in Nebraska can be just as iconic as any traditional wedding.

Whether you’re dreaming of a quick big-city courthouse ceremony, a sunset vow exchange in a chic urban garden, or something designed completely for you, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from where to elope in Nebraska and Omaha and how to get your marriage license to my can’t-miss tips and ways to celebrate post-ceremony.

If you’re ready to plan a day that’s true to you, intentional, and full of heart, let’s dive in.

Why Elope in Nebraska?

Whether you’re eloping in Nebraska because it’s your home town, your current home, or maybe even a temporary home, I want to assure you that this city is filled with charm and excitement that will make your wedding day extra special. 

We are SO lucky that Nebraska offers some of the most beautiful spaces without the high price tag of larger cities. Omaha, in particular, is such a hidden gem for elopements. It’s full of lush parks, cozy corners, and unexpected beauty — all perfect for couples who want a smaller wedding that still feels personal and stylish.

If you value presence over perfection, I seriously can’t think of a better place to elope. Some of my favorite wedding days have been the ones that focused on what matters most: just the two of you, promising forever, with nothing to prove and everything to celebrate.

How to Get a Marriage License in Nebraska

If you’re planning to elope in Nebraska, one of the most important (and often overlooked!) steps is getting your marriage license. Luckily, it’s a simple process! Here’s everything you need to know to make it official.

Getting Your Nebraska Marriage License

You’ll apply for your license through the county clerk’s office, and if you’re getting married in Omaha, that means the Douglas County Courthouse. That said, any Nebraska marriage license is valid anywhere in the state — so you can apply in Omaha even if your ceremony is happening elsewhere in Nebraska (or vice versa). Once you receive your marriage license, it’s valid for one year from the day it’s issued.

What to Bring

• Valid ID for both partners (driver’s license, passport, birth certificate)
• Social Security numbers for both partners
• Names and birthplaces of both sets of parents
• $25 fee (cash or credit card) 
• I personally recommend bringing $34, which includes an extra $9 to pay for a certified copy of the marriage license, which you’ll need later on if you want to change your name or update paperwork.

Pro tip: There’s no waiting period, so you could apply for your license and get married the same day! However, I recommend applying at least a few days or weeks in advance and making a day date out of it! It helps to have everything ready — especially if you’re planning a weekday courthouse elopement and want to avoid last-minute stress or extra time waiting around in an office.

For more information, visit the Douglas County Courthouse website.

Where to Elope in Omaha

Omaha might surprise you with just how many dreamy spots there are. Whether you’re drawn to historic architecture, peaceful green spaces, or floral-filled urban gardens, this city has the perfect backdrop for an intimate wedding. Here are a few of my favorite places to elope in Omaha, each offering its own kind of magic.

Douglas County Courthouse

Want to keep things simple without giving up style? An Omaha courthouse elopement might be exactly what you’re looking for. The Douglas County Courthouse offers the perfect mix of historic elegance and downtown energy. I’ve shot ceremonies in most of the courtrooms, so I’m familiar with their best angles. Some boast large paintings, while others exude understated courthouse charm — but all of them are super special for an intimate ceremony. I also know just where to go for those quiet, intimate portraits or iconic elopement shots after your ceremony.

Elmwood Park Grotto

Surrounded by trees, the Elmwood Park Grotto feels like Omaha’s hidden gem elopement location. With a small creek running through it like natural white noise, you’d never know it’s in the middle of the city. Spring and summer bring bright greenery, full trees, and colorful blooms, while fall gives the whole space golden tones. It’s an ideal setting for couples who want a private, nature-filled ceremony that still feels close to home. 

Lauritzen Gardens

If you’re the kind of couple who loves strolling through botanical gardens, you’ll fall in love with the idea of an Omaha garden elopement at Lauritzen Gardens. This is one of my favorite venues to shoot in because every corner feels like a new, personal garden. From roses to hydrangeas to a sweet herb garden, there’s no shortage of locations. Whether you’re planning a tiny ceremony or simply want stunning portraits, Lauritzen brings the garden wedding vibe to life.

Memorial Park

With its sweeping lawns and seasonal blooms, Memorial Park is one of Omaha’s largest and most loved green spaces. But here’s the secret: the Rose Garden tucked inside is a hidden gem for intimate elopements. From late May through early October, the garden bursts into color, making it one of the prettiest spots in town for a small outdoor ceremony. You can rent the garden for a very small fee compared to any venue in town.

Looking for more location ideas for your Nebraska elopement? Check out my favorite intimate wedding venues in Omaha!

Should you hire vendors when eloping in Nebraska?

You might be keeping your celebration small, but that doesn’t mean you have to go through it alone. Hiring a few key vendors can make the experience of eloping in Nebraska feel thoughtful, well-designed, beautiful, intentional, and most importantly, stress-free. Even for the most intimate ceremonies, a team of professionals can help you slow down, stay present, and celebrate fashionably. 

Here are a few vendors I always recommend considering for your elopement:

Elopement Photographer

Of course I’m biased… but hiring a Nebraska elopement photographer is one of the best decisions you can make. Whether you’re saying your vows at the courthouse or exchanging rings in a quiet park, your moments deserve to be remembered!

As a photographer, I’m known for being unobtrusive to the wedding day and fitting in with friends and family. I’ll be there capturing all things big and small: glances between you and guests, big-belly laughs, smiles as you say your vows, and all the candid in-between moments, all while making you feel natural and at ease in front of the camera. You’ll walk away with timeless photos that feel true to you.

Please document your day, even if it will be short and sweet.

Florist

I don’t know many people who would pass on beautiful, fresh flowers. Even the simplest elopement feels extra special with florals like a bouquet in hand or a pocket boutonniere. It’s the perfect touch to really add dimension and life to your photographs and an elevated feel to your day.

Hair & Makeup Artist

There’s something so calming about having someone help you get ready, even if you’re getting married on a Wednesday morning at the courthouse. Hiring a professional hair and makeup artist gives you a moment to breathe, relax, and feel your best. It’s not always about going full glam (unless that’s your vibe!), but rather making you feel your most confident, relaxed self.

Officiant

If you’re not getting married by a judge at the courthouse, you’ll need an officiant to make things legal. And if you’re planning something a little more personal, hiring a professional officiant is a smart move for eloping in Nebraska. A good officiant will help you craft a ceremony that reflects your relationship and values.

Need recommendations? As an experienced Omaha elopement photographer, I’d love to help by connecting you with my network of local wedding professionals. Get in touch with me today!

5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Elopement

Post-elopement reception dinner at Le Bouillon

Just because you’ve chosen a more low-key way to get married does not mean you can’t celebrate it. If anything, I believe you deserve to party even more! In lieu of a full-scale reception, here are a few of my favorite ways to kick off your new chapter as newlyweds.

• Host a backyard picnic and pool party with your closest friends and family.
• Enjoy a quiet dinner for two at a romantic restaurant. (I love The Committee, Salted Edge, or even being low key at Via Farina!!)
• Celebrate over dinner, wine, and speeches with your closest friends and family at Le Bouillon.
• Escape for a weekend getaway to Kansas City or the Sandhills.
• Retreat to your home or The Cottonwood Hotel for a cozy evening of cake and champagne.
• Do wedding portraits around Omaha’s most iconic sites, like Joslyn Castle and the Old Market.

A sweet elopement at Joslyn Castle

My Bonus Tips for Eloping in Nebraska

After photographing dozens of sweet, small ceremonies, I’ve picked up a few tips that can help make your Nebraska elopement feel effortless and unforgettable — no matter how laid-back your plans may be.

Wear the dress

Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you have to scale back on style. If you’ve always dreamed of wearing the dress, do it! The point is to wear whatever makes you feel confident and beautiful, whether it’s a fashionable mini dress, the dress you’ve been dying to buy from Meshki, or maybe your favorite Anthropologie wedding gown. Buy the dress! 

Don’t forget the essentials

Keep things simple, but don’t forget the important stuff. Bring your:

• Marriage license
• Vows (if you’ve written your own)
• Rings

That’s it! The best part? If you’re working with me, I’ll help guide you through all of this so nothing slips through the cracks.

Plan for the weather

One thing about eloping in Nebraska is that it will always keep us on our toes. (Looking at you, spring snow flurries!) As a result, it’s always smart to have a backup plan — especially if you’re planning an outdoor elopement. I’ll help you choose locations with built-in flexibility and make the most of the natural light (even on cloudy days).

Ready to elope in Nebraska? Let’s capture your love story

Let me be clear: small doesn’t mean less meaningful. Slowing down, focusing on each other, and creating a day that feels true to your relationship? That’s something really special. And I promise — with me behind the lens, your photos will reflect every bit of that magic. Whether you’re planning a courthouse ceremony, vows at the park, or something totally your own, I would be so excited to help tell your story.  Reach out to start planning your elopement photography!