A History of Las Vegas Weddings and Elopements
Everyone knows Las Vegas as the Wedding Capital of the World, but how did it earn that reputation? Was it the charming, quaint city atmosphere? How about the lovely dry desert air? As much as we love the heat and the huge city, it isn’t that!
From drive-through weddings to quickie ceremonies, Las Vegas’s wedding industry brings in more than two billion dollars a year, but it didn’t happen by accident. Starting in the 1930s, Clark County relaxed marriage laws that typically required a blood test and a waiting period in order to prevent hasty, alcohol-influenced marriages.
A marriage license office opened in the train station, staying open until midnight to give eloping couples plenty of time to tie the knot. Thanks to the quicker process and the proximity and privacy for Californians (namely big-time celebrities), people began flocking to the still-young city of Las Vegas for a quick and easy marriage. Soon enough, chapels began opening within walking distance of the train station for those who still wanted a ceremony of some kind.
After being married, couples were all too eager to enjoy fabulous casinos, fine dining, and exquisite accommodations as they celebrated. And, of course, the owners of Vegas’s brand-new hotels and casinos enjoyed the increase in profits from newlywed couples so much that they did everything in their power to attract more of them! Some even opened their own chapels in-house to accommodate them.
Over the years, countless chapels and wedding-centric businesses work to serve and enrich Las Vegas’s famous legacy of love. I am so proud to be part of this almost century-old legacy, and I can’t wait to help you become part of it, too!
Amber is a Las Vegas Elopement Photographer who is available for travel for elopements and weddings. Send in a contact form through the link above to schedule your free consultation.
Photography: Amber Garrett Photography
HMUA: Atomic Style Lounge
Suit: Vera Wang, Men’s Wearhouse
Dress: Sachin & Babi Mon Coeur Dress
Transportation: Bell Limo
How did Las Vegas become the wedding capital of the world? It’s all thanks to love-friendly laws and a little Las Vegas magic! Read all about it here.