How to Elope at NYC City Hall: A Photographer’s Guide

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something timeless about eloping at Manhattan City Hall. The bright green couches, the quiet moments before you say “I do” in a historic government building, and the energy of other couples waiting to get married make it one of the most special ways to begin your marriage.

As a wedding photographer, I’ve captured dozens of these intimate days. If you’re dreaming of a low-stress, joyful elopement, here’s exactly how to make it happen.

Step 1: Get Your Marriage License

First, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license, either online through Project Cupid or in person at the Marriage Bureau by appointment. The fee is $35, payable by credit card or money order.

After receiving your license, there’s a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before your ceremony can take place.

Step 2: Schedule Your Ceremony Appointment

Unlike years ago when you could simply walk in, you now need to book an appointment for your in-person ceremony. Appointments open on a rolling basis (typically 2–3 weeks in advance, often on Monday mornings) through the Project Cupid portal.

You can schedule your ceremony before you have your license. For example, if it’s January 15 and you want a ceremony on January 31 but don’t yet have your license, you can still book January 31. Just be sure to submit your license application and complete the 24-hour waiting period before your ceremony date.

To book your ceremony, you will need:

• Your name and email
• Your partner’s name and email
• Your witness’s name

Ceremony slots are available Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–11:30 am and 1 pm–3:30 pm. Fridays are the busiest, but it’s a fun, quintessentially New York experience seeing other couples celebrating too.

The ceremony fee is $25, payable by credit card or money order at your appointment.

What to Bring on Your Ceremony Day

• Valid photo IDs
• Your NYC marriage license
• One witness over 18 with ID (I’m happy to be your witness if it’s just the two of you!)
• Ceremony appointment confirmation
• Rings (optional)
• Bouquet (optional)
• $25 fee (credit card or money order payable to NYC Clerk)

What to Expect on the Day

You’ll arrive at the Marriage Bureau (typically 141 Worth Street in Manhattan), go through security, and check in. Once your number is called, you and your witness will enter the ceremony room for a short but meaningful ceremony with a City Clerk officiant. The ceremony itself is quick—about 2 minutes—just enough time to look at each other, take a deep breath, and promise forever.

After your ceremony, you’ll receive your marriage certificate, making your marriage official!

An Inclusivity Note

Your love story deserves to be seen, celebrated, and remembered exactly as you are. I am honored to document weddings for couples of all genders, sexualities, races, faiths, immigration statuses, and abilities. Love belongs to everyone.

What Should We Wear?

This is one of the most common questions I get, and it’s a personal choice—but here’s my best advice: wear what feels like you. I’ve photographed couples in flowing gowns, tailored suits, jumpsuits, leather jackets, and matching sneakers. Don’t be afraid to wear something colorful or unconventional!

If it’s cold, think about a coat you like in photos. We can take it off for a few outdoor shots, but I also love documenting your day exactly as it happens, clear umbrellas and all if it’s rainy. Comfortable shoes are key, especially if we plan to wander the city after.

Still unsure? You can find my Pinterest Board of ideas here.

After Your Ceremony

This is where your elopement becomes uniquely yours. We can wander to Chinatown for dumplings, grab coffee in Tribeca, hop in a cab to DUMBO for waterfront portraits, or pop champagne on your rooftop. These candid moments often become the most cherished images from your day, and I’m happy to help you find the perfect settings to reflect your style.

FAQs

Can we bring guests?
Yes, but keep it small. Currently, the couple can bring up to four guests over 12 (including your photographer), plus one witness (18+) with ID, and a limited number of children under 12. Family and friends can also meet us outside to throw confetti and take portraits.

How long should we plan for?
While the ceremony itself lasts under 2 minutes, plan for 30 minutes to 1 hour for check-in and waiting. Fridays and days before holidays tend to be busier.

For Non-US Citizens

If you would like your NYC marriage certificate recognized abroad, you may need an apostille (an authentication under the 1961 Hague Convention). To get one, you’ll first need to request an extended marriage certificate from the Marriage Bureau and have it certified by the NYC Clerk before submitting it to the NY Secretary of State for the apostille.

If you’re planning to elope at NYC City Hall, I would love to photograph your day in a way that feels true to you—quiet, joyful, and full of the warmth that makes this city so special.

Elopements are about stripping away expectations and celebrating what truly matters: your love, your connection, and the experience you want to create together.