Shotgun Wedding 101: From Old-School Gossip to Seattle’s Coolest Elopement

amymvillalba
Dec 2
2 min read

“Shotgun wedding” used to mean rumors, raised eyebrows and a dad polishing a twelve gauge on the porch. Old stigma, new story. At Shotgun Ceremonies, we took the name, emptied the baggage and kept the fun. Now it means a small legal wedding that is personal, inclusive and actually enjoyable.

What is a shotgun wedding?

Traditionally the term meant a rushed wedding people assumed was forced for “reasons.” The joke did the rounds, the couple got stuck with the label and everyone moved on. We prefer facts. A shotgun wedding is just a quick wedding. That’s it.

Where the term came from

The phrase shows up in American slang in the late 1800s. Think frontier towns, nosy neighbors, tall tales. Over time it became a punchline. Then times changed. People marry for health benefits, immigration steps, taxes, timing, romance, practicality or all of the above. No porch, no shotgun, just love.

What a Shotgun Ceremonies wedding is

Shotgun Ceremonies is a tiny wedding venue with a licensed wedding officiant (small pink chapel in a shipping container and covered outdoor gazebo) in Seattle's Georgetown neighborhood. Same legal ceremony you get at the courthouse, but a much better story. We keep it small and simple. We cue your favorite music, tailor the script to your story and handle signing and filing the paperwork so it is truly official.

Licensed officiant who keeps it heartfelt
Witnesses available (free) if you need them
Music at the right moment
Time for photos (we'll take some on our phone or yours!)

Want extra flavor?

Choose an Elvis wedding when iconic feels right
Pub Crawl Wedding across three walkable Georgetown bars for your ceremony, toasts, photos and license signing

Why couples choose this in Seattle

Because it is legal, easy, affordable ($400) and memorable. Because our pink chapel has vintage Vegas energy with Seattle soul. Because you can bring guests or keep it just the two of you. Because you want a story that sounds like you, not seating charts and $40K of wedding debt.

Who a “shotgun wedding” is for

Couples who want meaning without a giant production
Partners who value their budget and an experience to remember
Folks who need witnesses... we have them! (And they are included free.)
Everyone and every kind of love, always welcome here

FAQ, the fast version

Is it legal? Yes. We are licensed. Your ceremony is recognized by the State of Washington.

Do we need witnesses? Witnesses are required by the state of Washington. If you don't have them, we've got you covered.

How long does it take? Plan on about 30 - 45 minutes, including photos.

How soon can we marry? Washington has a 3-day waiting period after your license is issued. Apply, then pick your date.

Can we bring pets? Yes. Furry ring bearers are a hell-yes for us!

Come elope with us!

Call it a shotgun wedding, a micro wedding or a tiny big deal. We will keep it personal and legal. No judgment. No drama. Just vows that feel like you.

Ready to do this? Book your ceremony at our chapel or gazebo, add Elvis or plan a Pub Crawl Wedding. Why plan bigger, just pull the trigger.