In recent years, court marriage have gained popularity as a cost-effective alternative to traditional weddings. Many couples, especially those prioritizing simplicity and legal formalities over grand celebrations, opt for court marriages to avoid financial strain. But what makes them so much cheaper? Let’s break down the key reasons.
1. No Expensive Venue Costs
✔ Court Marriage:
- Conducted in a courtroom or registrar’s office.
- No need for banquet halls, resorts, or outdoor venues.
- Cost: Minimal or free (government fees only).
✖ Traditional Marriage:
- Requires booking expensive venues (50,000 – ₹10,00,000+ in Pakistan).
- Additional charges for decoration, lighting, and seating.
Savings: Up to 90% cheaper than wedding venues.
2. Minimal Guest List = Lower Expenses
✔ Court Marriage:
- Only 2 witnesses + the couple needed.
- No pressure to invite hundreds of guests.
✖ Traditional Marriage:
- 200-1000+ guests expected, increasing costs for:
- Catering (500 – 2,000 per plate)
- Return gifts, invitations, and accommodations.
Savings: No catering or guest management costs.
3. No Extravagant Rituals & Ceremonies
✔ Court Marriage:
- A 10-30 minute legal procedure with minimal formalities.
- No mandap, pheras, mehndi, sangeet, or reception expenses.
✖ Traditional Marriage:
- Multiple pre-wedding & post-wedding events.
- Costs include:
- Priest fees (10,000 – 50,000)
- Bridal makeup (20,000 – 1,00,000)
- Photography/videography (50,000 – 5,00,000)
Savings: Eliminates lakhs in ritual-related expenses.
4. No Dowry or Heavy Gold Expenses
- Court marriages discourage dowry demands (illegal in many countries).
- Couples often avoid expensive jewelry purchases (saving 1-10 lakhs).
5. Simplified Legal Documentation
- Only requires:
- ID proof (Aadhaar, passport)
- Age proof
- Affidavit of marriage (500 – 2,000)
- Marriage certificate fee (1000 – 20,000)
- No need for wedding planners or event managers.
6. No Cultural or Family Pressure
- Avoids costly customs like:
- Destination weddings (20 lakhs+)
- Themed decor (5-20 lakhs)
- Live bands/DJ performances (1-5 lakhs)
7. Quick & Hassle-Free Process
- Can be completed in 1-30 days (depending on country laws).
- No year-long wedding planning stress.
Comparison: Court Marriage vs. Traditional Marriage Costs
Expense Category | Court Marriage | Traditional Marriage |
Venue | 15,000 –25,000 | 50,000 – 10,00,000+ |
Guest Management | ₹0 (2 witnesses) | 5-20 lakhs (500+ guests) |
Catering | ₹0 | 2-10 lakhs |
Rituals (Priest, Mandap) | ₹0 | 1-5 lakhs |
Bridal Attire/Jewelry | Optional (5,000 – 50,000) | 1-20 lakhs |
Photography | Optional (5,000 – 20,000) | 50,000 – 5,00,000 |
Total Estimated Cost | 20,000 – 30,000 | 5 lakhs – 15lakhs |
Who Should Choose a Court Marriage?
✔ Couples on a tight budget
✔ Interfaith/intercaste couples avoiding family disputes
✔ Privacy-seeking pairs (celebrities, LGBTQ+ couples where laws permit)
✔ Long-distance/NRI couples needing quick legal registration
Final Verdict
Court marriages are 90-95% cheaper than traditional weddings because they eliminate venue costs, guest expenses, rituals, and cultural obligations. While they lack grandeur, they offer legal security, simplicity, and financial freedom.
If you need Any Advice and Guide on Court Marriage Services then here You Need to Consult with Our best Lawyers.
