How to Get Married at the Capitol in Madison, Wisconsin

Are you and your partner thinking of eloping at the Capitol building in Madison, Wisconsin, but aren’t sure where to start? This Ultimate Guide to getting Married at the Capitol in Madison, Wisconsin is for you! We’ll go over everything to ensure your day is a success!

As an expert in documenting capitol elopements in Madison, Wisconsin, this guide will help you every step of the way.

A couple in formal attire stands on an ornate balcony inside a grand, dimly lit hall, reminiscent of a Wisconsin State Capitol elopement. They hold hands and look into the distance among marble columns, decorative murals, and warm glowing lamps. The bride holds a bouquet.

Step one: Choose a photographer for your Capitol Elopement (aka, ME!)

After photographing dozens elopements in the Wisconsin State Capitol, I can say it is one of my favorite places to witness couples getting married. The Capitol Building’s historical significance paired with beautiful light and simplicity makes it the perfect place for your intimate day.

Shortly after you inquire here, I’ll check my calendar and we’ll set up a time to chat about your day!! If you’re not quite sure on a date yet, that’s okay! I’ll fill you in on all the details you need to know and share next steps. Once you’re booked, you will have exclusive access to my Capitol Elopement Guide — only for Anya Kubilus Photography clients!

When I capture capitol elopements, I keep your requests at the top of mind. I will make sure to get all of the group photos you want with your guests. I won’t miss a candid moment during your ceremony. And, of course, we will create some classic Capitol portraits.

Ready to make this official? Contact me today!

couple kisses at the capitol in Madison Wisconsin

Step two: Find an officiant for your Capitol Elopement in Madison, Wisconsin

The first thing you’ll need is someone to legally marry you. I suggest finding someone first because they can have limited availability.

You can ask a friend to marry you and they can register to become ordained online at the Universal Life Church. The bonus of asking a friend to marry you is that they can tailor your ceremony to be more personal.

If you’re interested in hiring a civil official, you can find an ordained professional on the Madison County Clerk’s website here.

A few of my favorite Madison Capitol officiants are retired Judge Paul Higginbotham and Judge JoAnne Kloppenburg.

Note: You will need your officiant’s name, address, phone number, and email address when you are applying for your marriage license.

A couple stands at the altar, sharing a kiss in a grand wood-paneled room adorned with chandeliers and a large portrait. Guests are seated, witnessing the ceremony as the brides photographer captures every moment. A man stands to the side clapping, while large windows illuminate the scene.

Step three: Secure your Capitol Elopement day & apply for a permit

Once you’ve chosen your officiant, the next step is to solidify your date and make any reservations or apply for permits. I’d recommend picking a weekday as the Capitol building will be less crowded.

The Capitol hours are 8am – 6pm Monday thru Friday and 8am – 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Keep in mind that Saturdays are typically busy due to the Farmer’s Market. I’d also recommend avoiding a Wisconsin Badgers Game Day and Weekend as that brings lots of tourists to the city and can crowd the Capitol.

If you are planning on using a private room, having chairs, or inviting more than 50 guests, you’ll need to apply for a permit to get married inside the Madison Capitol building during regular business hours. To apply for a permit for the Assembly Chamber or Parlor, contact Pat McKee, the Assembly Sergeant-at-Arms: 608-237-9624. To apply for a permit for the Senate Chamber or Parlor, contact Cyrus Anderson, the Senate Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms: 608-266-2506. Please note that if booking a weekday, the Senate can override use of the space and bump anyone on short notice. It’s recommended to book a room on a weekend if possible!

There are two permit fees that are associated with reservations for weddings at the Capitol building. The first is a refundable $750 deposit. The second is a non-refundable deposit equal to $375 or $750. The $375 permit is for ceremonies that are occurring inside of business hours that require room rental, chairs or more than 50 guests. If you are hoping to have your ceremony after the building is closed (like on weekends after 4pm or weekdays after 6pm), you’ll need to pay $750. If you are a government employee, use of the Senate Parlor is free, but you will need to submit a deposit.

To reserve the rotunda (the main open space of the Capitol) fill out this form on the Department of Administration’s website. Please note applications take a minimum of 10 days to process.

If you are planning to get married with a small amount of guests, are not using a private room, and do not need chairs, you do not need a permit. All you need to do is show up and get married! I highly recommend checking the Official Capitol Calendar to make sure you are not planning your elopement during any planned public event.

A bride and groom share a kiss in a dimly lit, ornate archway, perfectly captured by their photographer. They stand close, surrounded by rich stone walls and lit by a wall sconce, with glimpses of intricate ceiling decor and a marble railing in the background.
A close-up of three gold rings on a dark surface, captured by a discerning photographer. In front of soft, full white roses, one ring is plain, the second boasts a large central stone flanked by smaller ones—the perfect set for any bride—and the third is an elegantly simple band.

Step four: Apply for your Capitol Elopement marriage license

When you are 60 days away from your Capitol Elopement in Madison, Wisconsin, you must schedule an appointment to apply for a marriage license on the Dane County’s website here.

Marriage license appointments are held via Zoom and are online only. You must have your photo ID, Social Security number, a document with your current physical address, and a certified copy of your birth certificate. There are a few other stipulations that are outlined on the Dane County Clerk’s website here. The total fee for your license will be $120 and is due at the time of your application.

After applying, there is a three day waiting period before your marriage license is issued. You can apply for a waiver for a $25 fee.

Note: These rules can change anytime so be sure to double check before applying to make sure that you have the proper documents and requirements.

A couple embraces on the steps of a grand neoclassical building with ornate columns, as a photographer captures their special moment. The brides elegant attire suggests a formal or celebratory occasion, perfectly complementing the intricate architecture that surrounds them.

Step five: Invite guests

Legally, a Capitol Elopement in Madison, Wisconsin, consists of five (5) people: the couple, your officiant, and two witnesses. This means your photographer can sign as a witness and so is any passing person who “witnessed” your ceremony taking place.

I’d recommend inviting at least two people who can celebrate with you once your ceremony is over.

A couple walks hand in hand down a grand staircase in a beautifully ornate building, with their bride photographer capturing each moment among the high arches and detailed architectural elements. The bride, in her white dress, holds a bouquet while the groom dons a crisp suit.

Step six: Secure a florist, attire and the rings

Just because your wedding is at the Capitol doesn’t mean you can’t have all the bells and whistles of a typical wedding day.

Flowers are a beautiful addition to elopement days. Some florists will work with last minute clients if you just need a bouquet and boutonniere, but be sure to call ahead and tell them your date and vision. Being less picky about the flowers you have will be helpful and allow your florist to create beautiful designs.

My favorite florists for Madison Capitol elopements are Hy-Vee, Daffodil Parker, and Sunborn Gardens.

A wedding ceremony unfolds inside an ornate building labeled Supreme Court. The bride beams as a photographer captures the moment, while a couple stands with a group of people gathered around them, surrounded by high ceilings and decorative columns in the background.

Make sure you find a fit that is comfortable for you. The Capitol building is huge and can involve a lot of walking (especially outside!). If you’re getting married in the winter, I recommend having a nice coat or jacket for some outdoor photos.

A few of my favorite sites for dresses are Asos, BHLDN, Baltic Born, Lulu’s and David’s Bridal.

For suits, be sure to lean on the side of being comfortable and finding a suit that fits well. Men’s Wearhouse is a good option as well as Indochino, Bonobos, Sene, Suit Shop, The Black Tux. Please make sure you have enough time to order and tailor your suit before your wedding day.

Another option is to thrift, borrow or mix and match with what is already in your closet. This applies to each of you! You don’t need to spend thousands on attire that you’ll only wear once. If you want to wear something non-traditional, it’s your day – remember you can do anything you want.

A black and white photo captured by a talented photographer shows a couple beneath a veil. The groom gently holds the brides face as they lean in for a kiss, dressed in formal wedding attire. The veil creates a soft, romantic ambiance around them.

When it comes to rings, it’s important to make sure that you have rings that fit. If you want to wear silicone rings, that’s totally okay! Just make sure to get them before your ceremony!

A bride and groom in wedding attire embrace on an interior balcony of a grand building, beautifully captured by the photographer. The architecture features ornate arches, columns, and decorative ceilings. Warm lighting casts a soft glow over the stone walls and detailing.

Step seven: Plan a celebratory dinner or drinks for after your ceremony

One of my favorite ways couples celebrate on their Capitol Elopement in Madison, Wisconsin, is when they reserve a table at a nearby restaurant for dinner after their ceremony. There are so many amazing five-star restaurants close to the Capitol that are perfect for celebrating your marriage.

Some of my biggest recommendations are Eno Vino Downtown, Lucille, Cooper’s Tavern, Cento, RED Sushi, Tornado Room Steak House, Sardine, and Harvey House – just to name a few!

Be sure to inquire early and make reservations!

A bride and groom stand on a decorative balcony inside an ornate building with arched ceilings and intricate carvings. The bride, captured by the photographer, holds a bouquet as they are illuminated by soft, warm light.
A joyful couple, captured by their talented photographer, embraces and laughs in formal attire. The man wears a dark suit while the radiant bride stuns in a white dress with pearl accents. They stand against a light brown wall, freezing this moment of happiness forever.

I hope this was helpful as you plan your Capitol Elopement in Madison, Wisconsin! Check out more of my favorite tips for any couples planning to get married in Wisconsin:

Best Venues for Your Intimate Elopement in Madison, Wisconsin
How to Elope in Wisconsin
Top Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer

Are you looking for a wedding photographer for your Wisconsin State Capitol Elopement in Madison? Get in touch!

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