If you’re thinking of eloping in NYC, I am so excited for you! Who wouldn’t want to elope in the greatest city in the world? In this blog, we’ll be going through the main things you need to know to elope in NYC. From legal requirements to vendors you might need. Keep scrolling!
How to Elope in NYC: Legal Requirements
The first thing you are going to need to elope in NYC is to get a marriage license. In New York your marriage license must be issued at least 24 hours before your wedding. However, I recommend getting your marriage license at least three weeks in advance to ensure you have it the day of your elopement. Plus, it is one last thing you have to do before your elopement. To get your license you’ll need to apply for one at the City Clerk.
How to Elope in NYC: Setting A Budget
It’s a misconception that elopements don’t cost a thing. However, it is totally up to you and your partner how much you’d like to spend on your elopement! Some things to think about that need to go into your budget are:
Photographer
Venue
Officiant
Outfits
Florals
Hair
Makeup
Planner/Designer
Transportation
Since elopements are so personal, your list may look similar or completely different. Additionally, I suggest that you and your partner go through the day and think about all the little things you might need on your elopement day. Therefore, you don’t miss anything and you can add it into your budget.
Setting A Location For Your NYC Elopement
Choosing a location is seriously the best part NYC has a lot of options. For example, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge or City Hall. Additionally, If you were to choose me as your photographer, I would help you find the perfect location for you and your partner. These locations are some of my favorite ceremony spots. They are great to also take portraits at. That way you don’t need to travel far to take your elopement portraits!
City Hall: This classic location gives you the opportunity to take photos anywhere downtown! & you don’t even have to worry about finding an officiant.
Central Park: It is an iconic spot for a reason! Central Park may be the perfect elopement location for you! It has the New York vibe and scenery to it. It is very popular and an amazing location for gorgeous photos.
Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge is another favorite! You can see the Manhattan skyline from it making it incredibly romantic.
Fort Tryon Park: This location has several beautiful gardens and an amazing view of the Hudson River!
Prospect Park: Located in Brooklyn, this park has so many options and beautiful places for an elopement!
You can also consider having your elopement at a restaurant! Rooftop restaurants have been one of the go-to locations to have an elopement! Restaurants are usually open to renting out spaces, so check in with your favorite restaurant!
Officiant
Consider whether you’ll need an officiant to perform the ceremony or if you have a friend or family member who is ordained and can legally marry you. Make sure to talk to your officiant beforehand, as they will be the ones to join you and your partner together in marriage. It’s important to talk all about what type of ceremony you and your partner are wanting. Also, don’t forget to arrange for any necessary witnesses if required by law!
Choosing Your Photographer
Having a photographer is essential for capturing your big day. One helpful tip when searching for a photographer is to start saving photos that you really love! You can find different photography styles on Pinterest & Instagram! Once you have collected photos that you love, start seeing if there is any similarities within these photos! This will tell you the type of photography style you like and you’ll be able to narrow your photographer choices down.
Once you have your photographer, make sure to discuss with your photographer your vision for the day. Whether you’re wanting more candid shots or portraits against the backdrop of the city, sharing your vision can ensure you receive your dream photos for your NYC elopement. Additionally, your photographer should be able to help you write out a timeline for your elopement! But if you don’t have a photographer yet, head over to this link to learn more about me!
Should You Hire A Videographer?
If capturing your ceremony in full audio and length, then I 100% recommend hiring a videographer! That way you will be able to re-watch you and your partner getting married over and over again. As well, if you are not having family or a ton of family at your elopement, having a video to share with them can be super special.
Should You Hire A Wedding Planner?
Wedding planners are not just for weddings anymore! Of course you can have a wedding planner for your elopement. It is a personal choice. A planner can definitely make your day run a lot smoother. From making a timeline, vendor communication, elopement design and more!
Choosing Your Perfect Outfits
When it comes to choosing your perfect elopement outfits it comes down to choosing an outfit that resonates with you! Make sure you are choosing an outfit that fits your personality and you are comfortable with. Also, I suggest considering an optional addition to your outfit: outfits that allow for movement. When your clothing flows with the breeze, it creates stunning photo opportunities, capturing the playful dance of the wind. This could be a log veil or a flowy dress for example!
Another thing I always recommend is to choose an outfit you’ll be comfortable walking around with all day or have a second outfit. Remember, there will probably be a lot of walking! Think short dresses or pantsuits. Since there is usually a lot of walking, a lot of the time long dresses can get dirty from dragging on the ground, but if you don’t mind it, rock that long dress!
Don’t Forget Your Florals!
Remember just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you won’t need any florals! You will need a bouquet or boutonniere. As well, you can choose to have florals for at your ceremony for decoration. There are tons of NY florist to choose from. You can narrow down your choices by finding the style of florals you want first, then checking out different florists portfolios. If you need help, reach out and I’d love to send you our favorite teams that we work with all the time!
How To Elope In NYC: Day Of Your Elopement
Prepare for the day by getting ready together or separate! Sometimes couples opt out of capturing getting ready photos, but it is one of my favorite parts of the day. Having the moments captured as you get ready to marry the love of your life is truly special. Make sure to double check all of your legal documents and make sure everything is in order and ready to go. Don’t forget to soak up all of the moments surrounded by the beautiful scenery of New York City. The day will pass by so fast and it is important to cherish the special moments.
Post-Elopement
You’ve got your photographer, your officiant and ceremony location but don’t forget about after! Think about what you are going to do after your ceremony! Are you heading over to a restaurant? Are you running to tell everyone you just got married? Whatever you decide to do, make sure to plan ahead of time.
Ready to Elope in NYC?
Are you ready to elope in NYC? I am beyond excited for you! If you are looking for a photographer for your NYC elopement, I would be so happy to be considered. You can fill out an inquiry form here or check out my portfolio here.
