How to legally marry in NYC and the best places in New York to elope

Are you dreaming of a romantic elopement in the heart of New York City? Lucky for you we are an Australian company who also has a branch in New York City, so you can arrange your wedding before hopping on a plane to USA and you can feel safe in the knowledge that everything is taken care of.

The Big Apple holds the most unforgettable wedding experience for international travellers. With its iconic landmarks, breathtaking views, and vibrant atmosphere, eloping in NYC offers endless possibilities. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 locations where you can elope in New York City, as well as provide information on how to legally get married in the city that never sleeps.

1. Elope in Central Park

Central Park, the heart of Manhattan, is a dreamy location for your New York elopement. With its lush greenery, picturesque bridges, and stunning skyline views, this iconic park provides the perfect backdrop for your intimate ceremony. Exchange your vows in the Shakespeare Garden or by the Bethesda Terrace, and capture timeless photos in this urban oasis.

2. ELOPE on the Brooklyn Bridge

For a truly iconic New York elopement, consider the Brooklyn Bridge. As you walk hand in hand across this architectural marvel, with the cityscape as your backdrop, you'll feel like you're in a romantic movie. The bridge's charm and history make it an ideal spot to exchange your vows and create lasting memories.

3. Get married Top of the Rock

Take your love to new heights at the Top of the Rock observation deck. Located at Rockefeller Center, this elevated spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Say your vows against the backdrop of the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Hudson River, and let the city lights illuminate your love.

4. Elope with our Officiants on The High Line

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets and elope on the elevated oasis known as the High Line. This unique park, built on a historic freight rail line, offers stunning views of the city and the Hudson River. With its beautifully landscaped gardens and art installations, the High Line provides a serene and romantic setting for your elopement.

5. Become art and elope on the steps of The Metropolitan Museum of Art

For art lovers, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is an extraordinary location to tie the knot. Exchange your vows in the museum's stunning rooftop garden, surrounded by sculptures and breathtaking views of Central Park. This unconventional venue will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your special day.

6. The scene of so many of our elopements - DUMBO

Located in Brooklyn, DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a trendy neighborhood with cobblestone streets and stunning waterfront views. Elope with the iconic Manhattan Bridge as your backdrop, and celebrate your love in this vibrant and artistic community.

7. The New York Public Library - a perfect place for bookworms to elope

Step into a fairytale at the New York Public Library. This architectural masterpiece, with its grand marble staircase and majestic reading room, offers a truly enchanting setting for your elopement. Say your vows surrounded by books and history, and let the library's timeless beauty be the backdrop for your love story.

8. The Vessel at Hudson Yards

For a modern and unique elopement experience, consider the Vessel at Hudson Yards. This extraordinary structure, consisting of interconnecting staircases, offers breathtaking views of the city from different angles. Exchange your vows at the top of the Vessel, and let your love soar above the New York skyline.

9. The Cloisters An absolutely stunning place to elope

Transport yourselves to medieval Europe at The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art dedicated to medieval art and architecture. Nestled in Fort Tryon Park, this enchanting location features beautiful gardens, cloistered walkways, and stunning views of the Hudson River. Elope in this serene and romantic setting, and feel like you're in a fairy tale.

10. The scene of so many hellos and goodbyes - elope at Grand Central Terminal

Make a grand entrance into married life at Grand Central Terminal. This iconic transportation hub, with its grand architecture and celestial ceiling, offers a unique and glamorous backdrop for your elopement. Say your vows under the starry sky of the Main Concourse, and let the magic of this historic landmark surround you.

How to Legally Get Married in New York City

Now that you've chosen your perfect elopement location in NYC, it's important to understand the process of getting legally married in the city. Firstly head to our USA website and make a booking, then we will assign a Celebrant/Officiant and/or Photographer to you and they organise a time to meet with you over zoom, so you can share your plans or ask their advice for your big day.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Obtain a Marriage License

When you arrive in NYC you must obtain a marriage license. Both you and your partner must appear in person at the City Clerk's office to apply. Bring valid identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and be prepared to pay the required fee. The marriage license is valid for 60 days. Our Officiant/Celebrant will guide you through this process

2. Plan Your Ceremony

Once you have your marriage license, it's time to plan your elopement ceremony. Choose one of the breathtaking locations mentioned above or explore other options that resonate with your love story. We will give you access to our ‘portal-o-love’ and you can choose from a 2, 5 or 7 minute ceremony, you can add in personalised vows and a ring exchange.

3. Have Two Witnesses

In New York City, you are required to have at least two witnesses present at your wedding ceremony. Choose close friends or family members who will be honored to witness and celebrate your love. Or if you are travelling on your own, we can supply witnesses for you at an additional fee.

4. come from Anywhere in the World to get married in nyc

One of the incredible advantages of getting married in New York City is that your marriage is recognized worldwide. Whether you choose to elope in Central Park, on the Brooklyn Bridge, or at any other location in NYC, your marriage will be legally valid no matter where your adventures take you.

So, whether you're planning a grand elopement in Central Park or an intimate ceremony on the Brooklyn Bridge, remember that eloping in NYC offers endless possibilities for a truly unforgettable wedding experience. With the best New York officiant by your side and the city's vibrant energy surrounding you, your elopement will be a celebration of love, romance, and the magic of New York.