Quick “I Do’s” as same-day weddings rise on Valentine’s Day

Same-Day Weddings Gain Popularity in Los Angeles

In a city famed for quick romances and even quicker separations, the idea of a spontaneous wedding is gaining traction. More couples are opting out of the lengthy planning process—complete with seating charts and potential drama—and instead are going straight for the ceremony. Same-day weddings are surging in Los Angeles, transforming a once lesser-known courthouse option into a thriving business, especially with Valentine’s Day on the horizon.

Isabella Sklar first caught on to this trend back in 2003 while working as a notary. She found out that couples could obtain a marriage license and tie the knot on the same day, all without the hassle of blood tests or complicated legal procedures. Surprisingly, many people were unaware that this was an option.

“There were probably about six people,” she shared, reflecting on the past. “Now, this industry is booming.”

Today, Sklar operates a service in Valley Village called Same Day Marriage, with a small team that manages everything from the necessary paperwork to the ceremonial aspects—all in one place. The whole process lasts about 20 minutes, which, amusingly, is roughly the same time it takes to finish a latte. Most couples, however, tend to book an hour to savor the experience, snap some photos, and enjoy a little celebration before heading off to dinner or a gathering.

During peak times, especially around Valentine’s Day, the schedule can resemble a flight itinerary more than a wedding calendar. Sklar recalls one particularly hectic day filled with close to 50 ceremonies stretched from morning till night.

The appeal is straightforward: romance without the chaos. Couples arrive in a beautifully adorned space, ready for their vows and photos—no vendors, no fuss, no seating arrangements. For those looking for unique experiences, the team can also perform ceremonies at picturesque spots like beaches, parks, or even hot air balloons and under the Hollywood sign.

This wedding trend has exploded, with social media playing a big role. Couples who might have eloped in quiet settings now share their big moments on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, turning spontaneity into a stylish wedding trend.

And sometimes, the urgency behind these weddings isn’t just for the sake of a romantic gesture. Sklar has witnessed couples rushing to the altar for various reasons—health-related legal issues, partners who have been together for years finally deciding to make it official, or others needing to expedite their marriage ahead of impending court dates. One memorable ceremony even took place in a grocery store, sparked by a sudden phone call.

“We have so many stories,” Sklar reflected. “You never know who’s going to walk in.”

Interestingly, the biggest boom for this service came during the least romantic period imaginable. When the pandemic hit and shut down many services, Sklar’s business became one of the few ways couples could legally marry in the area, resulting in an unprecedented spike in demand.