Photo: Shawn Connell and Jack Jeffries of Christian Oth Studio
The great thing about city hall weddings is that it's a truly personal affair — it just you and your fiancé, plus one or two witnesses. There are little to no distractions and it's less stressful compared to planning a traditional wedding. But with family and friends hoping (and probably already thinking) that you will choose them as a witness of your vows, it may be difficult to decide who will actually accompany you on your big day.
I'm getting married at city hall and can only have two witnesses. How do we fairly decide who should come?
There is no right or wrong way to pick your wedding witnesses. Try writing the first five names that come to mind, and ask your fiancé to do the same. Then out of those names, have a talk with your future hubby about which two people have been the most supportive of your relationship.
Don't worry about hurting someone's feelings by not asking them to be there. People understand that city hall weddings are small. Plus, you can ask your witnesses to take pictures or to record the ceremony (which usually lasts around 30 minutes). That way the people you couldn't invite can still see the whole thing after it's over! Also, you can always throw a dinner or host a small reception afterwards. Although they won't be there to witness the "I dos," your loved ones will still be able to celebrate your marriage.