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Indiana State House Elopement Guide: Costs, Officiants, Attire & Photography Tips

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If you’ve been dreaming of an intimate wedding that’s beautiful, affordable, and steeped in history, a Indiana State House elopement might be exactly what you’re looking for.

On August 8th, 2025, Chelsea & Kyle exchanged vows in the North Atrium of the State House, surrounded by soaring marble columns, warm afternoon light, and just two loved ones by their side. Their wedding day proved that a ceremony doesn’t have to be large to be breathtaking — and the State House offers an unmatched setting for couples who want elegance without the stress of a huge guest list.



With wedding costs continuing to rise — and the very real concern for marriage equality being reviewed in America — elopements are becoming both a practical and empowering choice. The Indiana State House is a stunning, accessible, and inclusive backdrop for celebrating your love, whether it’s just the two of you or a handful of your closest people.

Why Choose the Indiana State House for Your Elopement?


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  • Stunning Architecture – The North Atrium and Rotunda are filled with marble, columns, and intricate details that look timeless in photos.

  • Low (or No) Venue Cost – For small, simple elopements during normal business hours, you don’t need a permit. Larger, staged ceremonies with chairs or décor have an associated fee.

  • Inclusive Atmosphere – Many LGBTQ couples choose the State House for its public accessibility and the ability to bring their own officiant.

  • Central Location – Located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, it’s easy to pair your ceremony with nearby photo spots like Monument Circle, the Indiana War Memorial, or the Canal Walk.

How to Book Your Indiana State House Elopement

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For true elopements (just a couple and a few guests), you can arrive during normal State House business hours — no permit required.


If you’d like a formal set-up with chairs, floral arrangements, or a sound system, you’ll need to contact the State House events office and pay the venue’s rental fee.


Pro Tip: Always check the State House’s event schedule. The day before Chelsea & Kyle’s elopement, the Vice President was on site, which meant restricted access to parts of the building. You’ll want to avoid scheduling your ceremony on days with political events, protests, or press conferences.

Finding an Officiant for Your Elopement

Couple exchanging vows in the North Atrium during an Indiana State House elopement.

You have two main options:


  • Hire a professional elopement officiant – We recommend Just The Two Of Us Wedding Services for couples in Indianapolis.

  • Have a friend or family member get ordained – Online ordination through Universal Life Church is quick, legal in Indiana, and allows someone you love to perform the ceremony.

What to Wear for Your Indiana State House Wedding

First kiss beneath marble columns at an Indiana State House elopement.

Chelsea & Kyle chose formal wedding attire, which looked incredible against the marble and gold tones of the State House.


Styling Tips:


  • Go Formal – The grandeur of the building pairs beautifully with a wedding gown, suit, or tuxedo.

  • Play With Color – Jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or burgundy stand out against the neutral stone.

  • Bring Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be walking through the building and likely heading outside for additional portraits.


Photography & Timing Tips for Your Indiana State House Elopement


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  • Best Time of Day: Mid-afternoon brings soft, glowing light in the atriums; mornings may have fewer visitors.

  • Indoor & Outdoor Locations: Plan for portraits in the North Atrium, Rotunda, staircases, and on the front steps.

  • No Flash or Tripod Needed: The natural light is beautiful, but check with your photographer for any specific gear rules.

  • Book Enough Coverage: Even a quick elopement benefits from at least 90 minutes of photography to capture ceremony, portraits, and detail shots.

LGBTQ Couples: This Space is for You


Bridal bouquet detail against marble during an Indiana State House elopement.

We believe there’s no such thing as an “LGBTQ wedding” — just weddings. The Indiana State House is open to all couples, and as an LGBTQ elopement photographer in Indianapolis, I’m here to ensure you feel celebrated, respected, and seen every step of the way.

FAQ: Indiana State House Elopements


Classic black-and-white portrait from an Indiana State House elopement.

Do we need a permit? No, if you keep it small and during business hours. Larger set-ups require a rental agreement.


Can we have guests? Yes! Most elopements here have 2–10 people.


What days are best? Weekdays are less busy, but always check for political events first.


Where do we park? Metered street parking and nearby garages are available.


How far in advance should we plan? At least 4–6 weeks to secure your officiant, photographer, and any formal rental needs.

Plan Your Indiana State House Elopement With Rogue Image Photo



Your elopement deserves the same thoughtful attention as a large wedding — and the Indiana State House offers the perfect mix of beauty, convenience, and affordability.

If you’re ready to start planning your Indiana State House elopement, click here to inquire and check availability. I’ll help guide you through the process, connect you with trusted vendors, and capture every moment in timeless, authentic images.

A couple kissing in an elevator, doors partially open. Bride in white dress with veil. Intimate and romantic black-and-white scene.
Bride in white gown and groom in black suit walk hand-in-hand in ornate hallway with chandeliers and marble columns, smiling at each other.
Bride and groom smiling under ornate chandeliers in a grand hall with marble columns and wooden doors. Warm, elegant atmosphere.
Bride and groom embrace intimately in elegant hall with wooden details. Bride's veil and bouquet with white flowers are visible.
A bride and groom ascend elegant marble stairs. The bride's white dress and veil contrast with the groom's black suit. Romantic atmosphere.
Bride and groom holding hands descend a grand marble staircase. The bride wears a flowing gown, and the groom holds a bouquet. Black and white.
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Bride and groom descend ornate marble staircase, bride holds bouquet. Elegant chandeliers illuminate the grand building interior.
Bride in a gown with a long veil descends ornate marble stairs, holding a bouquet. Elegant interiors with chandelier and balcony. Black and white.
Hand with a silver ring rests on ornate wooden railing. The sleeve of a black garment is visible. The mood is calm and serene.
Vow books for husband and wife with "Est. 2025" text, next to wedding rings in a velvet box. Soft flowers and colorful light create a romantic mood.
Bride and groom exchange rings in an elegant hall with chandeliers. The bride wears a veil, and an officiant stands nearby, creating a joyful scene.
A couple stands before an officiant, exchanging vows in an ornate hall with arches and chandeliers. The bride wears a white gown.
Bride in a simple white dress and veil leans on a wooden railing in an ornate hall, looking upward. Elegant and serene atmosphere.
Close-up of a bride in a white gown holding a bouquet of white flowers and greenery, leaning on a wooden railing in an elegant interior.
Couple in formal attire sits closely, holding champagne glasses. Bride in white dress, showing a tattoo and ring. Romantic, intimate mood.
A bride and groom kiss on city steps with champagne. She's in a white dress, he's in a suit. Monument and buildings in the background.
Hands hold Champagne and glasses, one pouring, near a flower bouquet. Outdoors with greenery. Elegant, celebratory mood.
Bride in white dress and groom in black suit kiss outdoors near a stone railing. Veil flows in breeze. Romantic and joyful mood.
Bride and groom holding hands, walking down stairs in a city setting. Bride in white dress with veil, groom in a black suit. Black and white.
Bride in white gown and groom in black suit hold hands, walking in elegant stone hallway with arched window. Romantic and serene mood.
Bride and groom descend elegant stone steps of a grand building. Bride holds bouquet, wearing white gown; groom in black suit.
Couple kissing through window; bride in white dress and veil, holding bouquet. Cityscape with tall buildings in background, romantic vibe.
Bride in a white gown and groom in a black suit share a kiss by a window. Stone wall, warm light, romantic mood. Bride holds flowers.
Bride and groom walk hand in hand on a marble-tiled floor with a geometric pattern in an elegant hall with columns and chandeliers.
Bride in a white dress and groom in a suit embrace tenderly by a window in a dimly lit room with a glowing lamp, conveying romance.

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