New York City is a bustling metropolis full of unique and romantic locations. It's no wonder why couples from all over the world choose to elope in the big apple.
Whether you're looking to tie the knot in Central Park or exchange vows atop the Empire State Building, NYC has something for everyone. The city offers iconic landmarks, stunning scenery, and a diverse culture that can make your special day unforgettable.
If you want to skip the stress of planning a wedding in NYC, check out our elopement packages.
Eloping has become more popular than ever before, with many couples choosing to ditch the traditional wedding format for an intimate and personalized ceremony. By eloping, you can skip all the stress and drama that typically come with planning a big wedding. Instead, you can focus on each other and start your married life together stress-free.
Not only will eloping save you money, but it also allows you to be more spontaneous with your plans. You won't have to wait months or even years for a venue or caterer to be available because all you need is each other and an officiant!
This guide will provide everything you need to know about how to elope in NYC. From obtaining your marriage license to celebrating after your ceremony, we'll cover it all! We'll provide tips on finding the perfect location and hiring a photographer along with fun things to do before and after your elopement.
We'll also discuss dressing for success on your big day as well as ceremony ideas and officiants available in New York City. And finally, we'll cover legalities and paperwork after getting hitched so that you're fully prepared for married life together!
Choosing the perfect date and time for your elopement is important, as it will set the tone for your big day. New York City offers a variety of different weather conditions throughout the year, so consider what suits you best. Spring is beautiful, but can be unpredictable with rain showers; summer is warm but can be crowded; fall is stunning with colorful foliage but can get chilly; and winter can be magical with snowfalls but cold temperatures.
You might want to consider sunset or sunrise times to get great lighting for your photos. Also, make sure that you allow plenty of time to plan so that everything is in place when you arrive.
The first step in getting married in New York City is obtaining a marriage license. This process requires both partners to appear in person at the Clerk's Office with proper identification (such as a driver's license or passport) and proof of age (such as a birth certificate).
The cost of obtaining a marriage license varies by city, but in NYC it costs $35. Once you have obtained your marriage license, it will remain valid for 60 days.
New York City offers many unique locations to elope at, depending on your preference and style. From Central Park to Brooklyn Bridge Park, or even rooftop gardens overlooking the city skyline- there are endless options!
Consider what type of scenery or vibe you are going for: romantic and intimate or grand and glamorous? There are also many indoor locations like museums or hotels if you prefer that over being outside.
If you need more help finding the perfect venue, check out our huge list of the best places to elope in NYC.
Hiring a good photographer is essential for capturing memories that will last a lifetime - especially since elopements tend to be more intimate than traditional weddings. When choosing a photographer, look for someone whose style you love and who can capture your personality and the essence of your day. Don't be shy to reach out to them with specific requests or ideas that you may have.
Some photographers specialize in elopements, so they will have a great understanding of what works best for this type of event. Planning an elopement in NYC requires careful attention to detail, but it's also an opportunity to create a unique and unforgettable experience that reflects your style as a couple.
Take the time to plan everything carefully from the date and location to your outfit and photography. With all these pieces in place, you'll be well on your way to creating memories that will last forever!
When it comes to choosing the perfect outfit for eloping in NYC, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, comfort is key.
You'll be walking around the city and taking photos, so you want to make sure you're comfortable in your attire. Second, consider the time of year and weather conditions.
New York can be chilly in the winter and hot and humid in the summer, so dress accordingly. Think about your personal style and what makes you feel confident and beautiful.
One popular option for elopement attire is a simple white dress or jumpsuit. This classic look is timeless and elegant, perfect for a city wedding.
If you want something more playful or bold, consider a colorful cocktail dress or skirt with a statement top. For those who prefer pants over dresses, a tailored suit or chic jumpsuit can be just as stylish.
When it comes to shopping for elopement dresses and suits in NYC, there are plenty of options both high-end and budget-friendly. For those looking to splurge on designer pieces or custom-made gowns, check out boutiques like Gabriella New York Bridal Salon or Kleinfeld Bridal.
If you're seeking more affordable options without sacrificing style, try retailers like BHLDN or Reformation.
Another option is renting your wedding attire from companies like Rent The Runway or The Black Tux. This can save you money while still allowing you to wear high-quality designer pieces.
No matter where you choose to shop for your elopement attire in NYC, remember that ultimately what matters most is how confident and comfortable you feel on your big day!
One of the great things about eloping is that you have the freedom to choose what kind of ceremony you want. Whether you're looking for a secular or religious ceremony, NYC has got you covered. There are plenty of officiants in the city who can customize your wedding ceremony to fit your personal beliefs and preferences.
If you're looking for a secular ceremony, you can choose from a variety of options, such as a civil ceremony or a humanist ceremony. These types of ceremonies do not include any religious elements and are perfect for couples who want a more personalized experience.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a more traditional wedding with religious elements, there are plenty of churches and synagogues in NYC that offer wedding services. You can also opt for an interfaith ceremony to blend your different religious backgrounds.
One of the perks of eloping in NYC is having access to unique and unconventional ceremony locations. From iconic landmarks like Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park to trendy rooftop venues with stunning city views, there's no shortage of places to tie the knot in this vibrant city.
For something truly unique, consider getting married at The High Line Park or The New York Public Library. These locations offer unforgettable backdrops for your special day.
Another option is to rent out one of the many private event spaces that cater specifically to weddings. These spaces often have beautiful decor and amenities that will make your elopement feel extra special.
Choosing an officiant is an important part of planning your elopement because they will be leading the most important part – your wedding ceremony! When choosing an officiant, it's important to find someone who fits your style and personality.
Start by doing some research on officiants in NYC. Look at their websites and social media accounts to get a sense of their style and approach to weddings.
You can also ask for recommendations from friends or wedding planners. Once you've narrowed down your list, schedule consultations with each officiant.
This will give you a chance to get to know them better and make sure they are the right fit for you. Remember, your officiant will be an important part of your wedding day, so take the time to find someone who shares your vision and can create a ceremony that truly reflects who you are as a couple.
Congratulations on your elopement! Now that you're officially hitched, it's time to start thinking about the legal aspects of your union. One of the most common things newlyweds do is change their last name.
If you're planning on changing your name, there are a few things you need to know. First things first: You'll need to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the city clerk's office.
This is the document that proves you're legally married, and it's what you'll use to change your name on other documents like your driver's license or passport. Once you have this document in hand, it's time to start filling out paperwork.
The paperwork required for changing your name varies depending on where you live and which agencies you're dealing with. Generally speaking, though, you'll need to fill out forms with agencies like the Social Security Administration and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
You may also need to notify banks, credit card companies, and other institutions of your new name. It can be a lot of work, but it's worth it for many people who want their legal documents to match their new married status.
Getting married in NYC requires some paperwork before and after the wedding day. After obtaining a marriage license prior to getting married (which we discussed earlier), couples must also file paperwork with the city after their elopement ceremony.
This step involves obtaining a certificate of marriage which attests that two individuals are legally married in New York City or elsewhere in New York State as well as providing documentation needed for official purposes such as proof of change-of-name when updating personal records. To get this certificate couples must visit or mail an application along with payment ($35) directly at the City Clerk's Office with a valid ID or passport.
The certificate of marriage is usually delivered in approximately 6-8 weeks after filing. You can also request expedited service for an additional fee if you need it sooner.
It's important to have all the legal paperwork taken care of after your elopement so that you can enjoy your newly married life without any concerns about the legality of your union. By following the steps we've outlined, you'll be well on your way to changing your name and getting all of the necessary documents sorted out in no time.
New York City is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. It's no surprise that there are countless romantic dinner spots to choose from.
Some of the most popular options include One if by Land, Two if by Sea, a charming restaurant housed in a historic carriage house in Greenwich Village or The River Cafe, a stunning waterfront spot located under the Brooklyn Bridge. If you're looking for something more intimate, L'Artusi is a cozy West Village Italian spot with an extensive wine list and delicious pasta dishes.
New York City is full of unique experiences that will make your elopement trip truly unforgettable. Consider taking a helicopter ride over Manhattan or booking a private boat tour around the Statue of Liberty. For those who love art, visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art after hours for an exclusive night-time tour or take part in an art-making workshop at the Museum of Modern Art.
As one of the most photogenic cities in the world, New York offers endless opportunities for stunning photo ops. Some popular options include Central Park's Bow Bridge at sunrise or sunset, DUMBO's Washington Street with its infamous view of the Manhattan Bridge and Empire State Building as well as Top of The Rock observation deck at sunset for panoramic views that will take your breath away.
For something less touristy but equally beautiful? Visit Washington Square Park when it's covered in snow or walk across Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise when it's less crowded - both perfect backdrops for romantic photos!
After your elopement, you and your significant other will want to spend some quality time together. A romantic hotel can provide the perfect setting for your honeymoon night in NYC. The city is home to some of the most luxurious and romantic hotels in the world, so you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding accommodations that suit your tastes and budget.
The Plaza Hotel is a classic choice if you're looking for old-world glamour and luxury. Located on Fifth Avenue, it offers stunning views of Central Park and is walking distance from many of NYC's top attractions.
If you're looking for something more modern, check out the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO. This eco-luxury hotel boasts stunning views of Manhattan and is just a short walk from Brooklyn Bridge Park.
If you're on a tighter budget, consider staying at The Jane Hotel in the West Village. Built in 1908 as a sailors' home, this historic hotel has small but cozy rooms with an old-world charm that's hard to resist.
New York City is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world, so there's no shortage of fun activities to do as newlyweds here. Here are a few ideas:
- Take a stroll through Central Park: There's nothing quite like taking a leisurely stroll through the most famous park in NY with your new spouse by your side. You can have a romantic picnic in Central Park, pack some snacks or drinks, and enjoy each other's company while taking in the scenery.
- Visit one of NYC's many museums: If you're interested in art or history, NYC has some amazing museums that are worth checking out. The Metropolitan Museum of Art on Fifth Avenue is one of the most famous museums in the world, with an incredible collection of art and artifacts from around the globe.
- Go on a food tour: NYC is known for its fantastic food scene, and there are many food tours that can take you to some of the best restaurants and eateries in the city. Whether you're interested in pizza, bagels, or something more exotic, there's a food tour for everyone.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. No matter what your interests are, NYC has something to offer newlyweds looking for fun and memorable experiences.
> See more things to do after getting married in Central Park
