Frequently Asked Questions

YOU'VE GOT QUESTIONS...

We totally get it.

Here’s what couples most often want to know before booking a ceremony with us.

How far in advance should I book?

We book weddings up to 90 days in advance. For same-day ceremonies, we usually need 2-3 hours’ notice (but can’t guarantee availability). Have a specific date in mind? Don’t wait—book it today.
What info do you need to book?

We like to keep it simple! Here's what we'll need: Names (or names you prefer to be called) Preferred date + time Whether you have your marriage license, or when you are applying Do you need witnesses? (we provide them for free for weddings performed at our venue, if needed) Are you bringing guests? (how many) Contact info (email + phone) 3–4 songs you love (we’ll make you a playlist!). You can provide this when you book OR when you arrive for your wedding!
Where/how do I apply for a Washington State marriage license?

You can apply at your county recorder’s office (the following info is for King County, but you can apply at any WA County). Start the process either online with in‑person follow‑up or fully in‑person at: 201 S. Jackson St., Ste. 204, Seattle, WA 98104. (Only one partner needs to appear in person.) After paying for your license, a mandatory 3-day waiting period begins before it becomes valid. The license remains valid for 60 days after that waiting period. Here is a calculator that shows you when you need to apply, based on your ceremony date.
How much does a Shotgun Ceremonies wedding cost?

Standard Shotgun Wedding: $400 ($150 deposit, $250 due day-of). (This is our lowest price. We do not have a lower price, unless you are military. In which case, we offer a $25 discount.) Elvis wedding: $675 ($250 deposit, $425 due day-of) Off-site: $400 within Seattle; additional fee for locations over 10 miles outside the city. If witnesses are needed for an off-site wedding, that fee is $100/witness.
Do you offer any discounts?

We offer $25 off for our service members - active or veterans. Just mention when you book. We also offer a hardship discount for incarcerated individuals. No judgement here! Contact us directly (206.372.3349) for details.
Can I come in to ask questions, see the spaces or pay in person?

Of course! We love visitors. We’re appointment-only so please call ahead (206.372.3349) so we can make sure someone is available to meet you.
How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony lasts 10-20 min. (But the joy? That sticks around forever.) You can expect to be in our space 30-40 minutes while we go over details and paperwork. You have up to an hour total if you or your guests are running late. (We always have a small window of time to allow for that awesome Seattle traffic, late guests, etc. Please always call, text or email to let us know if you are running late. Weddings arriving over 30 minutes late may need to be rescheduled and/or additional fees may apply.)
What happens during the ceremony?

It’s simple, unique to you, heartfelt and a little spontaneous. In the beginning of the ceremony, I’ll ask you both a few questions to briefly share your love story. You’ll have a chance to say something to each other (optional), then simple "I Do’s," exchange rings (if you have them - rings ARE NOT required!) and seal the deal with a kiss and marriage certificate signing. We can add or skip anything—it’s your day.
Is the ceremony religious?

Nope, unless you want it to be. We’re happy to incorporate any elements of your faith or traditions. During the booking process, please share any script/text you would like used and information about any other traditions or additions to your ceremony (unity candles, handfasting, lasso ceremony, etc.).
Can we bring guests?

Yes! (The human and the four-legged kind!) Our indoor chapel fits up to 9 guests. Our outdoor gazebo can handle 10–12 standing guests, with a few extra allowed Monday–Friday. We’re cozy, not corporate.
Do you provide witnesses?

Yep. Washington requires two witnesses, and we’re happy to provide them at no extra charge for all weddings performed at Shotgun Ceremonies. If witnesses are needed for an off-site ceremony, the additional fee is $100/witness.
We just want something really simple — do you do that?

Absolutely. Whether it’s quick, quirky or full-on fabulous, we make it personal and all about your love.
Are pets allowed?

Absolutely! We are very pet-friendly. We welcome furry, feathered and even scaly friends to be part of your big day. Whether you want your pup to walk you down the aisle, your cat to witness your vows or your bearded dragon to just chill in the background—we’re here for it. Just let us know ahead of time so we can make sure everything is set up for your special guest/s.
Can I get married by Elvis?

Oh yes, you most certainly can! Our Elvis impersonators (yep, we have Elvis options!) bring the vibes. Elvis’ fee is $275, which is added to the $400 ceremony cost (for a grand-total of $675). When booking an Elvis wedding, a $250 non-refundable deposit is required, with the remaining $425 due on your wedding day. Please mention your desire to get married by "The King" when you book so we can check availability!
Can we get married somewhere else?

Yes! Off-site weddings are $400 within Seattle. For anything further than 10 miles outside the city, we charge for travel time. Just call us for a quote. If witnesses are needed for an off-site ceremony, the additional fee is $100/witness.
Can I get ready there?

We have a small dressing room trailer for quick changes. Makeup/hair must be done before you arrive.
Help! We don’t want to see each other before the ceremony.

We got you. One of you can wait in the dressing trailer until it’s time for your grand entrance. Surprise achieved.
What happens if we need to reschedule or cancel?

Life happens — we get it. Deposits are non-refundable but can be transferred once with at least 48 hours' notice. You can also gift your deposit to another couple.
What happens if we are running late?

Shotgun Ceremonies books our venue for 60 minutes. You can expect to be in our space 30-40 minutes while we go over details, paperwork and perform your ceremony. The 60-minute timeline allows for a little flexibility in case you or your guests are running late. Please always call, text or email to let us know if you are running late. Weddings arriving over 30 minutes late may need to be rescheduled and/or additional fees may apply.) Elvis wedding ceremonies MUST start at the time booked.
What about pictures?

Ah, yes... capturing memories! You are welcome to bring a family member, friend or photographer. We're also happy to take photos for you (although we aren't professional photographers!) and post them in an online album at no additional charge! You can see the albums from some of our past ceremonies here. If you'd prefer not to have your photos in an online album or on social media, we are happy to use your personal phone or camera to snap a few pictures.
What’s the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall?

It’s the funky, fabulous little village of vintage trailers that house independent artists, designers and makers. And it’s where we are! The Georgetown Trailer Park Mall is open to the public Saturdays and Sundays 11AM–4PM. (But we can accommodate weddings any time, not just during regular business hours.) Come shop local, stay for the vows. 5805 Airport Way S, Seattle, WA 98108

Still have questions?

We've been doing this a LONG Time and believe me... we've heard it all. From "Can my dog be our ring bearer?" (Of course! Pets are part of the family and always welcome at Shotgun Ceremonies!) to "Can we recite our vows in Klingon?" (It's your day. Whatever works for you, works for us!)

Trust us, there's nothing we haven't heard over the past 10+ years. From the wild to the weird to the downright mundane... nothing surprises us.

If you've got a question we haven't answered, please send it to us! We'll get back to you ASAP.

And if you're ready to book, you can do so here!

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