Searching for a special day to say “I Do” on the most romantic night of the year and at one of the most iconic landmarks in Orange County? Look no further! This Valentine’s Day, Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen will be hosting a special night at the historic Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana where couples will be able to take the plunge during ceremonies performed under the glow of candles. Ceremonies will be offered from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. by appointment only. No walk-in service. Couples must obtain a marriage license and make an appointment to participate. Appointments are limited. To complete an application online and to make an appointment, please visit the following link: https://www.ocrecorder.com/services/marriage-services.
“This is a great opportunity for us to make Valentine’s Day even more special and memorable for couples,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen. “I am looking forward to seeing the happy couples get married during this special night. Everyone is going to have a night to remember.”
Ceremonies will be held inside the courtroom located on the third floor of the Old Orange County Courthouse. The rich woods, ornate judge’s bench, period chandeliers and high ceilings will be a great backdrop for this special night. The courthouse has been used for movies and television shows since 1915, adding to the uniqueness of these candlelit ceremonies. The courthouse can be seen in the films Frances, Catch Me If You Can, and Legally Blonde to name a few.
The department will be implementing strict social distancing guidelines as well as the following restrictions to ensure the safety of the couples and staff:
- For couples with a public marriage license, only the couple and one witness may be present during the ceremony. No guests allowed.
- For couples with a confidential marriage license, only the couple may be present during the ceremony. No guests allowed.
- Couples must present valid government issued photo identification at their ceremony.
- Payment can be made by cash, credit/debit card, check, cashier's check, and/or money order. Make checks and money orders payable to the Orange County Clerk-Recorder.
For more information, please call the department’s information line at (714) 834-2500 or visit OCRecorder.com. The department’s information line is available Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays.
