Complete Guide to Las Vegas Weddings: From $50 Elopements to $50,000 Celebrations

Why Vegas is the Wedding Capital of the World

Las Vegas hosts over 120,000 weddings annually—more than any other city in America. But this isn't just about quick chapel weddings anymore. Vegas has evolved into a full-service wedding destination that can accommodate everything from $50 drive-through ceremonies to $100,000+ luxury productions, often with better value and more excitement than traditional wedding destinations.

Why couples choose Vegas:

No waiting period: Get married the same day you get your license
No blood tests required: Simple legal requirements
Every budget accommodated: From ultra-budget to ultra-luxury
Built-in honeymoon destination: World-class hotels, dining, and entertainment
Guest-friendly: Easy travel destination with activities for everyone
Professional wedding industry: Decades of experience with thousands of weddings

The Vegas Wedding Advantage

Convenience: Everything you need in one city
Value: Often 50-70% less than comparable weddings elsewhere
Experience: Professional vendors with extensive Vegas wedding experience
Flexibility: From intimate elopements to 300-person celebrations
Entertainment: Built-in bachelor/bachelorette parties and guest activities

Vegas Wedding Myths Debunked

Myth: "Vegas weddings are just quickie chapels"

Reality: Vegas offers every type of wedding from intimate to elaborate

Myth: "Vegas weddings aren't 'real' weddings"

Reality: Nevada marriages are legally recognized in all 50 states

Myth: "You can't have a classy wedding in Vegas"

Reality: Vegas luxury weddings rival anything in Napa, Aspen, or the Hamptons

Vegas Wedding Landscape: Understanding Your Options

The Five Categories of Vegas Weddings

1. Chapel Weddings ($100-$2,000)

Classic Vegas experience
Quick ceremonies (15-30 minutes)
Variety of themes and styles available
Photography packages often included

2. Hotel Wedding Packages ($1,500-$15,000)

All-inclusive convenience
Professional wedding coordination
Luxury venue settings
Reception options available

3. Outdoor/Scenic Weddings ($2,000-$10,000)

Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Lake Las Vegas
Natural beauty settings
Professional photography opportunities
More complex logistics but unique experiences

4. Themed Specialty Weddings ($500-$5,000)

Elvis weddings, gangster themes, Gothic ceremonies
Unique Vegas experiences impossible elsewhere
Range from campy fun to surprisingly elegant

5. Full Wedding Productions ($10,000-$100,000+)

Complete wedding planning services
Luxury venues and high-end vendors
Comparable to destination weddings anywhere
Guest counts from 50-500 people

Venue Categories

Wedding Chapels: Dedicated wedding venues, often family-owned
Hotel Wedding Venues: Luxury hotel wedding departments
Outdoor Locations: Natural settings requiring permits and planning
Unique Vegas Venues: Casinos, observation wheels, helicopters, etc.

Legal Requirements: Getting Married in Nevada

Marriage License Basics

Where to get it: Clark County Marriage License Bureau (downtown Las Vegas)
Cost: $77 (cash only)
Valid for: 1 year from issue date
Waiting period: None—can marry immediately after obtaining license
Blood test: Not required

Required Documentation

Both parties must provide:

Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, military ID)
Social Security number (card not required, just know the number)
If previously married: Divorce decree or death certificate (certified copies)

Age Requirements

18 and older: No additional requirements
16-17 years old: Parental consent and court approval required
Under 16: Not permitted

The Marriage License Process

Step 1: Visit Clark County Marriage License Bureau

Address: 201 Clark Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89155
Hours: 8 AM - midnight daily (including holidays)
Wait times: Typically 30-60 minutes, longer on weekends and holidays

Step 2: Complete application

Both parties must be present
Provide required documentation
Pay $77 fee (exact change in cash)

Step 3: Receive license

Valid immediately
Must be used within 1 year
Keep original safe—needed for ceremony

Chapel Weddings: The Classic Vegas Experience

The Iconic Vegas Chapels

Graceland Wedding Chapel

Famous for: Elvis-themed weddings
Celebrities married here: Jon Bon Jovi, Billy Ray Cyrus
Packages: $199-$1,299
What's included: Ceremony, music, flowers, photos
Best for: Couples wanting classic Vegas kitsch with quality

Little White Wedding Chapel

Claim to fame: Drive-through weddings, Tunnel of Love
Celebrity history: Britney Spears, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland
Packages: $50-$800
Famous feature: Drive-through window for ultimate convenience
Best for: Quick ceremonies, famous Vegas experience

Chapel of the Flowers

Style: More traditional, elegant approach
Venues: Multiple chapel styles within one location
Packages: $295-$2,195
Features: Live streaming, extensive flower options
Best for: Couples wanting traditional ceremony in Vegas setting

Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel

Specialty: Themed weddings (Elvis, Dracula, Gangster, etc.)
Costumes: Extensive costume collection included
Packages: $199-$1,999
Unique feature: Most elaborate themed weddings in Vegas
Best for: Couples wanting unique, memorable themed experience

Chapel Wedding Packages Explained

Basic Packages ($99-$299)

Simple ceremony (15-20 minutes)
Officiant and witness
Recorded music
Basic flowers (bouquet and boutonniere)
Marriage certificate filing

Standard Packages ($300-$799)

Everything in basic package plus:

Professional photography (20-50 photos)
Video recording
Limousine transportation
Upgraded flowers and music options

Premium Packages ($800-$2,000+)

Everything in standard package plus:

Professional makeup and hair
Elaborate flower arrangements
Live music options
Reception packages
Deluxe photo albums and DVDs

Hotel Wedding Packages: Luxury Made Easy

Premium Hotel Wedding Venues

Bellagio

Venues: Chapel in the Clouds, South Chapel, Conservatory
Packages: $2,500-$15,000
Signature feature: Fountain view ceremonies
Best for: Luxury weddings with iconic Vegas backdrop
Guest capacity: 30-130 depending on venue

Wynn Las Vegas

Venues: Primrose Court, Wynn Chapel, Lakeside
Packages: $3,000-$25,000
Style: Ultra-luxury with impeccable service
Best for: Couples wanting the absolute best
Unique feature: Lakeside ceremonies with waterfall backdrop

Venetian/Palazzo

Venues: Venetian Chapel, Palazzo Chapel, Grand Canal
Packages: $1,800-$12,000
Setting: Italian-inspired romance
Best for: Couples loving European elegance
Photo opportunities: Gondola rides and Italian architecture

ARIA

Venues: ARIA Chapel, Sky Suites
Packages: $2,200-$18,000
Style: Modern luxury with technological integration
Best for: Contemporary couples wanting sleek venues
Unique features: Floor-to-ceiling windows, modern design

Outdoor Vegas Weddings: Beyond the Neon

Red Rock Canyon

Setting: Dramatic red rock formations 20 minutes from Strip
Permits: Required through National Conservation Area
Cost: $150 permit fee + vendor fees
Best time: October through April (summer too hot)
Capacity: Up to 50 people for ceremonies
Photography: Stunning natural backdrop, golden hour lighting

Logistics considerations:

No electricity or water available
All equipment must be brought in
Weather contingency plans essential
Professional planners recommended

Valley of Fire State Park

Setting: Nevada's oldest state park, 1 hour from Vegas
Permits: Required through Nevada State Parks
Cost: $250 permit fee + park entrance fees
Unique features: Ancient petroglyphs, fire-colored rock formations
Best for: Adventurous couples wanting truly unique setting
Challenges: Remote location, limited vendor access

Lake Las Vegas

Setting: Man-made lake community, 20 minutes from Strip
Venues: Multiple lakeside locations available
Style: Mediterranean-inspired luxury
Permits: Private venues, easier logistics than public parks
Cost: $2,000-$8,000 depending on venue and services
Best for: Couples wanting natural beauty with luxury amenities

Mount Charleston

Setting: Mountain escape 45 minutes from Vegas
Season: May through October (snow in winter)
Style: Pine forests and alpine meadows
Temperature: 20-30 degrees cooler than Vegas valley
Best for: Summer weddings escaping Vegas heat
Logistics: Limited vendor access, 4WD may be required

Themed Weddings: Only in Vegas

Elvis Wedding Packages

Venues: Graceland Chapel, Viva Las Vegas, Little White Chapel
Performers: Professional Elvis impersonators (some internationally recognized)
Packages: $299-$1,500
What's included: Elvis performance, ceremony, photos, music
Variations: Young Elvis, Classic Elvis, Gospel Elvis
Best for: Couples with sense of humor wanting iconic Vegas experience

Vintage Vegas/Rat Pack Theme

Style: 1950s-60s Vegas glamour
Venues: Venues with retro décor and styling
Elements: Vintage cars, period costumes, classic cocktails
Music: Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr.
Best for: Couples loving classic Vegas history and style

Gothic/Halloween Weddings

Peak season: October around Halloween
Venues: Viva Las Vegas Chapel specializes in gothic ceremonies
Elements: Dark romantic décor, costume options, dramatic lighting
Officiant options: Dracula, vampire priests, gothic themes
Best for: Alternative couples wanting dark romantic atmosphere

Western/Cowboy Weddings

Setting: Ranch-style venues or desert locations
Elements: Country music, western wear, rustic décor
Activities: Line dancing, barbecue receptions
Best for: Country music lovers, rustic wedding preferences

Gangster/Prohibition Theme

Style: 1920s speakeasy atmosphere
Elements: Period costumes, jazz music, vintage cars
Venues: Venues with art deco styling
Activities: Casino gaming, vintage cocktails
Best for: Couples loving 1920s history and style

Elopement Packages: Quick & Easy

Ultra-Budget Elopements ($50-$200)

Little White Chapel Drive-Through

Cost: $50-$85
Time: 10-15 minutes total
Includes: Ceremony, witness, certificate filing
Perfect for: Couples wanting simplest possible wedding
Celebrity factor: Famous for spontaneous celebrity weddings

Basic Chapel Packages

Cost: $99-$299
Time: 30-60 minutes total
Includes: Simple ceremony, flowers, photos
Upgrade options: Transportation, additional photos

Mid-Range Elopements ($300-$800)

Chapel Package Upgrades

Professional photography (30-50 photos)
Video recording of ceremony
Limousine transportation
Upgraded flower packages
Same-day digital delivery

Hotel Chapel Elopements

Venues: Paris, Flamingo, Excalibur
Packages: $400-$800
Benefits: Hotel amenities, nicer venues, professional coordination

Luxury Elopements ($1,000-$5,000)

High-End Chapel Experiences

Venues: Chapel of the Flowers, Chapel at Bellagio
Inclusions: Professional hair/makeup, elaborate flowers, gourmet dining
Photography: Professional wedding photographers, extensive photo sessions

Hotel Luxury Elopements

Venues: Wynn, ARIA, Venetian
Experience: Luxury venue rental, professional coordination, reception options
Honeymoon integration: Suite upgrades, spa packages, dining credits

Full Wedding Productions: The Works

Luxury Wedding Venues

Wynn Las Vegas - Primrose Court

Capacity: 120 guests
Setting: Lakeside ceremony with waterfall backdrop
Package range: $15,000-$50,000
Includes: Full event coordination, luxury linens, gourmet catering
Best for: Ultra-luxury weddings with impeccable service

Bellagio - Conservatory Weddings

Capacity: 50-100 guests
Setting: Among seasonal botanical displays
Package range: $12,000-$40,000
Unique feature: Ceremonies among world-class floral displays
Photography: Stunning backdrop changes seasonally

Red Rock Casino - Outdoor Pavilion

Capacity: 200+ guests
Setting: Mountain views, outdoor ceremony space
Package range: $8,000-$25,000
Benefits: Away from Strip crowds, natural beauty
Best for: Larger weddings wanting outdoor Vegas beauty

Photography & Videography: Capturing Your Day

Photography Package Tiers

Basic Chapel Photography ($100-$300)

20-50 digital photos
Basic ceremony coverage
Same-day digital delivery
Limited editing and retouching

Professional Wedding Photography ($800-$2,500)

2-4 hours coverage
200-500 edited photos
Online gallery and print releases
Professional editing and color correction

Luxury Wedding Photography ($2,500-$8,000)

Full-day coverage
Engagement session included
500+ edited photos
Professional albums and prints
Second photographer option

Unique Vegas Photo Opportunities

Iconic Backdrops

Strip skyline and neon signs
Red Rock Canyon natural beauty
Vintage Vegas signs and locations
Casino interiors and architecture

Themed Photo Sessions

Elvis impersonator photos
Vintage Vegas car rentals
Helicopter aerial photography
Sunset desert landscapes

Reception Venues: Party Like Newlyweds

Hotel Reception Venues

Luxury Hotel Options

Wynn: Private dining rooms with lakeside views
Bellagio: Elegant ballrooms and private dining
ARIA: Modern spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows
Venetian: Italian-inspired venues with canal views

Mid-Tier Hotel Receptions

Paris: French-themed dining rooms
Mandalay Bay: Beach-themed reception spaces
MGM Grand: Classic Vegas elegance
Caesars Palace: Roman-inspired grandeur

Unique Vegas Reception Venues

High Roller Observation Wheel

Capacity: Up to 40 guests in private cabin
Duration: 30-minute ride with Strip views
Packages: $2,500-$8,000
Experience: 550 feet above Vegas with panoramic views

Red Rock Casino Backyard

Setting: Outdoor space with mountain views
Capacity: 50-200 guests
Style: Upscale outdoor casual
Best for: Couples wanting natural beauty near Vegas

Budget Breakdown: Every Price Point

Ultra-Budget Vegas Wedding ($200-$500)

Marriage License: $77
Drive-through chapel: $50-$150
Basic photography: $50-$100
Celebration dinner: $50-$150
Total: $227-$477

What you get: Legal marriage, basic ceremony, photos, small celebration

Best for: Couples prioritizing simplicity and budget

Budget Vegas Wedding ($500-$1,500)

Marriage License: $77
Chapel package: $300-$600
Photography upgrade: $200-$400
Limousine: $100-$200
Dinner for two: $100-$300
Total: $777-$1,577

What you get: Nice ceremony, professional photos, transportation, celebration dinner

Best for: Couples wanting traditional wedding experience without high cost

Mid-Range Vegas Wedding ($1,500-$5,000)

Marriage License: $77
Hotel chapel package: $800-$2,000
Professional photography: $500-$1,000
Reception for 20: $800-$1,500
Guest accommodations help: $200-$500
Total: $2,377-$5,077

What you get: Luxury venue, professional services, small reception, guest coordination

Best for: Couples wanting elegant wedding with close family/friends

Luxury Vegas Wedding ($5,000-$15,000)

Marriage License: $77
Luxury hotel package: $2,500-$6,000
Professional photography/video: $1,500-$3,000
Reception for 50: $2,000-$5,000
Flowers and extras: $500-$1,500
Total: $6,577-$15,577

What you get: Premium venue, full professional services, elegant reception

Best for: Couples wanting luxury wedding experience

Ultra-Luxury Vegas Wedding ($15,000-$50,000+)

Marriage License: $77
Ultra-luxury venue: $8,000-$20,000
Full photography/video: $3,000-$8,000
Reception for 100+: $5,000-$20,000
Full planning services: $2,000-$5,000
Total: $18,077-$53,077+

What you get: Destination wedding-level luxury, full service, large celebration

Best for: Couples wanting elaborate celebration with many guests

Planning Timeline: When to Book What

6+ Months Before

Major venue booking: Popular hotels and chapels book early
Guest save-the-dates: Especially important for destination guests
Accommodation research: Guest hotel options and group rates
Budget finalization: Understand total costs and payment schedules

3-6 Months Before

Vendor booking: Photographers, florists, entertainment
Detailed planning: Menu selection, music choices, timeline development
Guest invitations: Send invitations with Vegas travel information
Transportation planning: Airport transfers, ceremony/reception transportation

1-3 Months Before

Final details: Confirm all vendor services and timelines
Guest coordination: Help guests with travel and accommodation
Marriage license research: Understand requirements but don't get license yet
Final payments: Complete payments to vendors

Day Before Wedding

Get marriage license: Visit Clark County Marriage License Bureau
Rehearsal if needed: For complex ceremonies or large weddings
Guest coordination: Help guests with any last-minute needs
Early rest: Big day tomorrow!

Guest Accommodations: Where Everyone Stays

Group Hotel Booking Strategies

Room blocks: 10+ rooms often qualify for group discounts
Mixed accommodations: Different price points for different budgets
Location considerations: Proximity to wedding venues
Booking timeline: Reserve blocks 3-6 months in advance

Budget-Friendly Guest Options

Downtown hotels: 50-70% less than Strip properties
Off-Strip casinos: Good value with free parking and shuttles
Group house rentals: Large groups can share vacation rental homes
Package deals: Flight + hotel packages often save money

Luxury Guest Accommodations

Strip luxury hotels: Bellagio, Wynn, ARIA for VIP guests
Suite upgrades: Special rates for wedding groups
Amenities: Pool access, spa services, fine dining
Concierge services: Help guests plan activities

Entertainment & Activities: Beyond the Wedding

Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

Traditional options

Pool parties at major hotels
Strip club experiences
Casino gaming tournaments
Luxury spa days

Unique Vegas activities

Shooting range experiences
Race car driving
Helicopter tours
Private dining experiences

Guest Entertainment

Shows and attractions

Group discounts for shows
Free attractions like Bellagio fountains
Casino gaming lessons
Shopping at premium outlets

Dining experiences

Group dinner reservations
Food tours of Vegas
Cooking classes
Wine tastings

Insider Tips: What the Pros Know

Vendor Selection Secrets

Research thoroughly: Check recent reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings
Meet in person: When possible, meet vendors face-to-face
Ask about experience: Ensure vendors are experienced with Vegas weddings
Get everything in writing: Detailed contracts prevent misunderstandings
Payment schedules: Understand payment timing and cancellation policies

Timing Strategies

Best days: Tuesday-Thursday for better rates and availability
Best months: October-April for weather, avoid major conventions
Time of day: Morning and afternoon ceremonies often cost less
Holiday avoidance: Major holidays mean premium pricing and crowds

Photography Tips

Golden hour: Sunset provides best lighting for outdoor photos
Location permits: Some venues require permits for professional photography
Backup plans: Weather contingencies for outdoor shoots
Multiple locations: Vegas offers incredible variety within short distances

Vegas-Specific Considerations

Heat management: Summer weddings require careful planning for guest comfort
Noise considerations: Vegas is loud—choose quiet venues for ceremony audio
Parking: Understand parking costs and alternatives
Gratuity culture: Vegas service industry expects good tips

Your Perfect Vegas Wedding

Choosing Your Vegas Wedding Style

The Spontaneous Elopement: Same-day license and chapel ceremony
The Classic Vegas Experience: Traditional chapel with Elvis or themed elements
The Luxury Destination Wedding: High-end hotel venues with full service
The Outdoor Adventure: Natural settings like Red Rock Canyon or Lake Las Vegas
The Full Production: Large celebration with extensive planning and services

Making Vegas Wedding Decisions

Priority setting: Decide what matters most (budget, guest count, style, etc.)
Research phase: Understand options before making decisions
Vendor vetting: Choose experienced, reputable vendors
Guest considerations: Balance your desires with guest needs and budgets
Timeline planning: Allow sufficient time for planning without stress

Vegas Wedding Success Factors

Flexibility: Things may not go exactly as planned, but can still be perfect
Communication: Keep all parties informed and involved appropriately
Professional help: Experienced Vegas wedding vendors make everything easier
Enjoy the process: Wedding planning should be fun, not stressful
Focus on marriage: Remember the wedding is one day, the marriage is forever

Final Vegas Wedding Advice

Understand the legal requirements: Nevada makes it easy, but know the process
Choose reputable vendors: Vegas has many options, research carefully
Plan for your guests: Destination weddings require extra guest consideration
Set realistic budgets: Understand all costs upfront to avoid surprises
Embrace the Vegas factor: Let Vegas enhance your wedding, don't fight the city's energy

The Vegas Wedding Advantage

Las Vegas remains the world's premier wedding destination because it offers something for everyone at every budget level. Whether you want a $50 drive-through ceremony or a $50,000 luxury production, Vegas has the venues, vendors, and experience to make it happen.

What makes Vegas special for weddings:

Convenience: Everything you need in one destination
Experience: Decades of wedding industry expertise
Value: Often better value than traditional wedding destinations
Entertainment: Built-in honeymoon and guest entertainment
Flexibility: Accommodates any style, budget, or guest count

The bottom line: Vegas weddings work because the city is built around creating memorable experiences. Your wedding becomes part of Vegas history, joining the thousands of couples who have started their marriages in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Whether you're planning a spontaneous elopement or a year-long planning process for a large celebration, Vegas offers the resources, venues, and vendors to create exactly the wedding you envision. The key is understanding your options, choosing reputable vendors, and embracing the unique energy that only Las Vegas can provide.

Your Vegas wedding can be exactly what you want it to be—and in Las Vegas, what you want it to be can be truly extraordinary.

This guide reflects extensive research including interviews with Vegas wedding professionals, venue visits, and analysis of thousands of Vegas wedding experiences. Wedding industry information changes frequently; always verify current pricing, availability, and legal requirements before making final decisions.