How to Plan a Madison Capitol Wedding at the Wisconsin State Capitol

Madison Capitol Wedding

If you're dreaming of a simple yet stunning place to say your vows, a downtown Madison Capitol wedding might just be the perfect choice. The Wisconsin State Capitol building is absolutely gorgeous with its grand architecture, and it’s surprisingly affordable for couples looking to have an intimate or small wedding. Whether you want to keep it low-key or invite a few guests, the Capitol offers a unique and meaningful space for your ceremony and portraits.

Wedding at the Wisconsin State Capitol

Madison Capitol Wedding Ceremony Info: Permits, Timing, and Planning Tips

Many areas inside the Capitol are open to the public, so you can often hold your ceremony without reserving a space. However, if you're planning a small gathering, want to have chairs, or want a private room, you may need to apply for a permit. I always recommend choosing a weekday for your Madison Capitol wedding to avoid crowds and give us more flexibility for photos. Saturdays are always the busiest!

You can reserve specific rooms within the Capitol, such as the Assembly Chamber or Senate Parlor. For the most up-to-date information and to make a reservation, please visit the official ceremonial reservations page:

👉 https://legis.wisconsin.gov/assembly/asgt/resources/ceremonial-reservations/

Wedding at the Wisconsin State Capitol

Wisconsin Marriage License Information

(Updated April 2025) Applying for a marriage license in Wisconsin is beyond simple! You can apply in any county in the state, regardless of where you plan to marry or where you live. Here are the key details:

• You have 60 days to use the issued marriage license.

• There is a 4-day waiting period before the license becomes valid.

• You must have two witnesses present at your ceremony who are at least 18 years old.

This flexibility makes it easy to plan a wedding at the Wisconsin State Capitol—just make sure to time your license application accordingly!

Madison Capitol Wedding Photography and Planning Help

I'm not just your photographer, I'm also here to help plan your Madison Capitol wedding from start to finish. I’ll get to know your vision, help create a timeline that fits your priorities, and make sure we stick to your budget. I know the Capitol building well and can guide you to the most beautiful spots for photos, making sure every moment is thoughtfully captured.

Bride and Groom stayed at Madison Concourse Hotel

Getting Ready in Downtown Madison Before Your Capitol Wedding

One of my favorite parts of a wedding day is the getting ready portion. I love when couples book a room at a downtown Madison hotel like the Madison Concourse Hotel or a charming Airbnb nearby. These locations offer additional unique backdrops, making them perfect for detail shots and candid pre-ceremony moments. Of course, I’ll be there to photograph it all!

Olbrich Gardens in Madison, Wi

After Your Madison Capitol Wedding

After your ceremony, downtown Madison is full of options for portraits and or a dinner reception. There are so many cozy restaurants and intimate spaces where you can celebrate with a drink or a delicious meal. We can also head to nearby spots like Olbrich Gardens, which has both indoor and outdoor gardens for additional photos.

Officiant Options for Your Madison Capitol Wedding

Here’s something unique about working with me: I’m ordained in Wisconsin and can legally sign your marriage license. If you're planning a simple ceremony and want to skip hiring an officiant, I can help with that! While I don’t perform ceremonies or speak during your vows, I can make it official by signing your license.

If you do want a traditional ceremony, I can also recommend local officiants who specialize in personalized scripts. A great officiant can truly elevate your wedding day by making the ceremony meaningful and reflective of your relationship.