How to Get Married Fast in Downtown Jacksonville: Your Walk-In Wedding Guide Near the Duval County Courthouse

You can get married fast in Downtown Jacksonville without stress, drama, or a year of planning. If you have your Florida marriage license and you are ready to say “I do,” Rainbow Wedding Chapel makes it simple to walk in, get married, and walk out legally wed just steps from the Duval County Courthouse.

This guide walks you through every step, from getting your license at the courthouse to choosing the right ceremony style for you, whether you want a quick elopement or a small wedding with up to 60 guests.

Why Walk-In Weddings Are Perfect for Jacksonville Couples

A walk in wedding in downtown Jacksonville is ideal when you want to get married quickly, affordably, and on your own terms. Rainbow Wedding Chapel focuses on fast, inclusive ceremonies that still feel meaningful.

Fast: Get Married the Same Day You Get Your License

Because Rainbow Wedding Chapel is located across from the Duval County Courthouse in Downtown Jacksonville, you can:

Pick up your Florida marriage license at the courthouse.
Walk a short distance to the chapel at Forsyth and Clay Streets.
Have a legal ceremony, take photos, and be on your way.

Affordable: Focus on What Matters Most

Walk-in and elopement-style weddings help you avoid big venue costs, catering minimums, and long vendor lists. At Rainbow Wedding Chapel, you choose the ceremony size that fits your budget and guest count, from a simple “just us” moment to a small or large wedding with up to about 60 guests.

Inclusive: All Love, All Backgrounds, All Stories

Rainbow Wedding Chapel welcomes all couples. You choose the officiant style that fits you best, with options for an ordained minister or a Florida commissioned notary. The focus is on your commitment, your comfort, and your unique relationship.

Step 1: Getting Your Florida Marriage License at the Duval County Courthouse

Before any ceremony in Florida, you need a valid Florida marriage license. In Downtown Jacksonville, you will typically get this at the Duval County Courthouse.

What You Usually Need for a Florida Marriage License

Requirements can change, so always confirm current details with the Clerk of Courts. In general, you should plan to bring:

Valid government-issued photo ID for each of you.
Basic personal information requested by the Clerk of Courts.
Any additional documents required by the county, if applicable.

Florida residents may have a waiting period unless they complete a premarital preparation course. Rainbow Wedding Chapel can refer you to a partner premarital class provider so you can potentially skip the waiting period and save on your license cost, depending on current state and county rules.

Quick Checklist Before You Leave for the Courthouse

Confirm courthouse hours and license requirements with the Clerk of Courts.
Bring your IDs and any required documents.
Decide if you want to take a premarital class referral from Rainbow Wedding Chapel.
Talk about your preferred ceremony style: elopement, micro wedding, or larger gathering.

Step 2: Walking Over to Rainbow Wedding Chapel on Forsyth & Clay Streets

Once you have your license in hand, you are just a short walk away from getting married. Rainbow Wedding Chapel is located in Downtown Jacksonville, across from the Duval County Courthouse in the Forsyth and Clay Streets area (Jacksonville, FL 32202).

Why the Location Matters

Being so close to the courthouse makes your day easier. You do not need to drive across town or coordinate multiple locations. You can:

Walk from the courthouse to the chapel in just a few minutes.
Invite guests to meet you near the courthouse and walk over together.
Enjoy Downtown Jacksonville backdrops for photos before or after your ceremony.

Rainbow Wedding Chapel focuses on couples who want a walk in wedding downtown Jacksonville experience. Whether you are planning ahead or hoping to get married today, the location is designed for convenience and speed.

What to Expect in a Walk-In Ceremony

Every couple is different, but most walk-in and short-notice ceremonies at Rainbow Wedding Chapel follow a simple, clear flow.

Timing: How Long Does It Take?

Most express and elopement-style ceremonies are brief and focused. The popular “Married In A Minute” style ceremony is designed to make it legal quickly while still feeling personal and respectful. With photos and license signing, plan a little extra time so you are not rushed.

Ceremony Styles: From “Just Make It Legal” to Small Weddings

You can choose from several ceremony types, depending on how much time and celebration you want:

Express “Married In A Minute” style ceremony – Perfect if you want a fast, legal ceremony with simple vows.
Walk in wedding ceremonies – Ideal for couples who are ready now and want a straightforward, meaningful moment.
Elopement ceremonies – Great for “just us” or a couple of guests, with time for photos.
Micro, mini, and small weddings – For intimate gatherings with your closest people.
Large weddings (up to about 60 guests) – When you want a bigger celebration without a huge traditional venue.

Vows and Personalization

You can use standard vows provided by the officiant or bring your own short vows if you prefer. Many couples choose a simple script for express ceremonies and add personal vows for micro or small weddings.

Witnesses and Officiant Options

Florida has specific rules about witnesses and officiants. Rainbow Wedding Chapel provides clear guidance so you know exactly what is required for your situation.

You can choose between:

Ordained minister – For a more traditional or spiritual feel.
Florida commissioned notary – For a civil, straightforward ceremony.

If you are unsure which option fits you best, the chapel team can explain the differences and help you decide what feels right.

Included Perks: Photos, License Filing, and On-Site Printing

Rainbow Wedding Chapel is set up to make your day simple and memorable, even if you planned it last minute.

Digital Wedding Photos Included

Digital wedding photos are included with ceremonies, according to the chapel’s site language. That means you walk away with images of your ceremony and key moments, not just a memory.

Typical photo moments may include:

The two of you at the altar.
Ring exchange and first kiss.
Couple portraits inside the chapel.
Small group shots with your guests.

On-Site Photo Printing and Packages

If you want prints right away, Rainbow Wedding Chapel offers on-site photo printing and photo packages. You can leave with physical prints for family, keepsakes, or frames at home.

License Handling and Filing

After your ceremony, Rainbow Wedding Chapel handles your marriage license for you. They file your license with the Clerk of Courts so it can be recorded properly. This saves you a trip and helps ensure your paperwork is submitted in a timely way.

Costs, Retainers, and When to Book vs. Just Walk In

Rainbow Wedding Chapel is designed for both planners and spontaneous couples. You can often walk in, but some days and times are busier than others.

When You Should Book Ahead

Booking ahead is smart if:

You want a Saturday wedding time.
You are planning a micro, mini, small, or large wedding with guests.
You have a specific date and time that matters to you.

Rainbow Wedding Chapel uses Saturday wedding retainers and weekday retainers as booking deposits. These retainers reserve your time slot and help keep your ceremony on schedule. Ask the chapel for current retainer details and availability when you are ready to book.

When a Walk-In Ceremony Makes Sense

Walking in can work well if:

You already have your Florida marriage license in hand.
You are flexible about the exact time of day.
You have few or no guests, or your guests are flexible too.

If you are planning to walk in, it is still a good idea to contact Rainbow Wedding Chapel the day you plan to come. They can share current walk-in availability and any special instructions for that day.

Tips for Making Your Downtown Jacksonville Walk-In Wedding Feel Special

Even if you decide to get married this week or today, your ceremony can still feel personal and memorable.

Dress How You Want

There is no single “right” way to dress for a walk in wedding downtown Jacksonville. You might choose:

Classic wedding attire with a gown and suit.
Simple, comfortable outfits that feel like you.
Colorful looks that match the fun, upbeat vibe of Rainbow Wedding Chapel.

Bring a Few Personal Touches

Small details can make a big difference, such as:

A short set of personal vows to read.
A meaningful song to play before or after the ceremony, if allowed.
A small bouquet or boutonniere.
A special keepsake or family item to hold or wear.

Plan a Simple Downtown Celebration Afterward

Because you are already in Downtown Jacksonville, you can keep celebrating after your ceremony. Consider:

A casual lunch or dinner with your guests.
A short photo walk around nearby streets and landmarks.
A private toast together before you head home or to your hotel.

Ready for Your Walk-In Wedding in Downtown Jacksonville?

If you are ready to get married fast near the Duval County Courthouse, Rainbow Wedding Chapel is set up for you. From express “Married In A Minute” style ceremonies to micro and small weddings with up to about 60 guests, you can choose the experience that fits your relationship and your timeline.

Next steps:

Confirm current marriage license requirements with the Duval County Clerk of Courts.
Contact Rainbow Wedding Chapel to ask about walk-in availability and booking options.
Decide whether you want an ordained minister or Florida commissioned notary officiant.
Pick your ceremony style: walk-in, elopement, micro, mini, small, or large wedding.

You do not have to wait months to say “I do.” With your license in hand and Rainbow Wedding Chapel just steps from the courthouse, you can get married in Downtown Jacksonville quickly, simply, and in a way that feels like you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Walk-In Weddings in Downtown Jacksonville

Do I need an appointment to get married at Rainbow Wedding Chapel?

Rainbow Wedding Chapel welcomes walk-in ceremonies when the schedule allows, but appointments are recommended for Saturdays, larger weddings, and specific time requests. Contact the chapel directly for current walk-in availability.

How close is Rainbow Wedding Chapel to the Duval County Courthouse?

The chapel is located in Downtown Jacksonville across from the Duval County Courthouse in the Forsyth and Clay Streets area, making it an easy walk after you get your marriage license.

What types of ceremonies does Rainbow Wedding Chapel offer?

The chapel offers walk in wedding ceremonies, elopement ceremonies, express “Married In A Minute” style ceremonies, micro weddings, mini weddings, small weddings, and large weddings with up to about 60 guests.

Are photos included with the ceremony?

Yes. According to the chapel’s site language, digital wedding photos are included with ceremonies. On-site photo printing and photo packages are also available.

Who can officiate my ceremony at Rainbow Wedding Chapel?

You can choose between an ordained minister or a Florida commissioned notary as your wedding officiant, depending on whether you prefer a traditional or civil style ceremony.