Debunking 9 Myths about Las Vegas Weddings

Las Vegas is no stranger to stereotypes, from the parties to gambling and other reputation-preceeding details. Contrary to popular belief, not all Vegas weddings are elopements, and not all bachelor and bachelorette parties end in tears. Experts weigh in on the myths and misconceptions and myths about Vegas weddings. 

Myth #1: Las Vegas weddings are fake

Vegas weddings are as real as the people that partake in them. Couples can pay for a ceremony just for laughs, but real paperwork exists to make the event official. 

“A Las Vegas wedding is just as legally binding as a wedding anywhere else,” says Melina Cianella, owner and creative director of Starry Eyed Events, “[and] the city makes it way easier with a streamlined marriage license process.”

Pick up a bona fide marriage certificate. Head to the Clark County marriage license office every single day of the year. Don’t forget it on ceremony day, either. 

Myth #2: Couples only elope in Las Vegas

Las Vegas elopements are spontaneous ways to tie the knot, and are easy to plan by design. Luckily, the variety in weddings is as expansive as the hotels and casinos. Planning beautiful, larger-scale weddings is a real possibility in Las Vegas, and the vendors are plentiful and accommodating.

“Elopements are certainly part of our city’s wedding history, but they are just one facet of what we do,” says luxury wedding planner Andrea Eppolito. “​​With world-class chefs, designers, resorts, and amenities, there is nothing we cannot do. Las Vegas is a place where couples can dream bigger and execute on a scale that’s nearly impossible elsewhere, whether it’s a private rooftop overlooking the Strip or a completely custom build in the middle of the desert.”

Myth #3: Las Vegas weddings are only indoors.

Hot temperatures can drive happy couples indoors, but outdoor venues are aplenty in Las Vegas. Desert weddings are a popular option for unique, rustic venue spaces and unforgettable ceremonies. Watch for the weather while planning the ceremony, in order to schedule the festivities during the best time of year.

“If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, keep in mind that Vegas summers are hot”, Cianella says. “Outdoor weddings are not recommended from June through August, [and] make sure you have an indoor backup in case of that crazy Vegas wind.

Myth #4: Chapels are the only places to get married in Las Vegas.

Nevada is no different than other states when it comes to marriage ceremony locations. Cianella says that Vegas continues to elevate its wedding offerings to suit all styles.

While the iconic chapels are a big part of Vegas history, they’re just the tip of the iceberg,” says Cianella. “Couples can say ‘I do’ in stunning luxury resorts, breathtaking desert landscapes, rooftop venues with skyline views or surrounded by greenery in a number of golf courses the city has to offer.” 

Myth #5: The only weddings are Elvis weddings.

The King is a famous officiant, and Elvis Presley weddings are common for visits. It’s not the only option, though. Luxury wedding ceremonies are a growing trend in the city, which shy away from stereotype.

“People can get married by Elvis, or have a heavily themed wedding, but that’s just one side of Vegas weddings,” Cianella says. “With so many growing options, the city is quickly becoming home to world-class wedding professionals who create elegant, romantic and luxurious events that rival any destination wedding in the world.”

Myth #6: Only tourists get married in Vegas.

While the city caters to visitors getting hitched in a matter of hours, the concept of a hometown wedding is present in the local market. Vegas weddings take care of residents as much as tourists by housing hundreds of services and experts to create every kind of wedding imaginable.

“With its top-tier vendors [and being] easy to travel to for guests, Las Vegas is truly a wedding capital. It easily offers something for everyone,” Cianella says.

Myth #7: Vegas weddings are not classy.

The complete opposite is true. Casual wedding ceremonies are common, but in a city defined by opulence, the variety and possibilities for wedding planning rival the diversity of tourists and out-of-town intendeds.

“Las Vegas has been redefining luxury for decades,” says Eppolito. “Today, we produce some of the most extravagant, fashion-forward, and immersive wedding experiences in the world. Think couture gowns, six-figure floral installations, custom-built venues and multi-day celebrations with celebrity chefs and private concerts.”

Myth #8: It’s cheaper to get married on a weekday in Las Vegas

Wedding packages are on sale all day, every day in Las Vegas. Most chapels are open seven days a week, and the Clark County marriage licensing office is open until midnight, meaning that getting hitched on a Tuesday is a real possibility. With select chapels being open 24 hours a day, scheduling a ceremony is easy and fun.

Myth #9: Vegas weddings can happen under the influence of alcohol

The rumors are true here. Hold off on the liquor before walking down the aisle. Since there are some marriage conditionals to follow, couples may be denied their license if someone is intoxicated. Besides, being present for the experience is the key to enjoying it to the fullest.

“It’s about storytelling, about crafting an experience that is never before, never again—something uniquely [yours], never to be replicated,” says Eppolito. “That kind of personalization and magic is what makes Las Vegas weddings unlike any other.”