How to Plan your 2025 City Hall Elopement in NYC

Mar 17

Planning a City Hall elopement in NYC can be a beautifully simple and intimate way to say "I do." Whether you’re drawn to the iconic architecture, the ease of the process, or the charm of a small, heartfelt ceremony, there are a few key things to keep in mind to make your day stress-free and memorable.

Stef Reyes Photo, inside Manhattan City Hall, inside Manhattan City Clerk's Office for couples who are looking to elope

Getting Your Marriage License

Before heading to City Hall, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. Here’s what you need to know:

City Hall is only open Monday - Friday, both Brooklyn and Manhattan!
You cannot get married on the same day you receive your marriage license. There is a 24-hour waiting period.
The license is valid for 60 days, giving you plenty of flexibility to choose your wedding date.
You can apply for the license online in advance via Project Cupid, but both partners must appear in person to finalize it.

Ceremony Details at City Hall

You can bring up to four guests, including your photographer.

Thursdays and Fridays are the busiest days, with peak wedding season in May, June, September, and October.
Expect a 45-90 minute wait on peak days, especially in Manhattan. If you want a quicker experience, consider eloping in Brooklyn, Queens, or the Bronx, where wait times tend to be shorter. Below is a look at the two locations.

Inside Manhattan City Hall

Inside Brooklyn City Hall

Portrait Planning: A Stress-Free Approach

Pre-Ceremony Moments: Arrive early and plan some quiet time together before the ceremony. Whether it's grabbing coffee at a nearby café or simply soaking in the moment, this can help set a calm and intentional tone for the day.

Post-Ceremony Portraits: Don’t rush off immediately! Set aside dedicated time for family photos and newlywed portraits. This will allow you to fully enjoy the moment without feeling pressured by time constraints.

Best Portrait Locations Near City Hall

After your ceremony, take advantage of the nearby photo-worthy spots:

Chinatown: Vibrant streets, historic storefronts, and colorful backdrops.
Near City Hall: The beautiful courthouse steps, columns, and city skyline views.
Your Favorite Restaurant: A sentimental spot that makes your photos feel even more personal. Pizza? Bar? You name it!
Favorite Activity Spot: Whether it’s a bookstore, arcade, or a record shop, incorporating a meaningful place into your portraits can make them even more special.
Subway Shots: If you love the energy of NYC, hopping on the subway for some documentary-style images can add a dynamic and playful feel to your album.

Stef Reyes Photo, Joyful NYC City Hall elopement moment, capturing candid newlywed laughter

Stef Reyes Photo, Joyful NYC City Hall elopement moment, capturing candid newlywed laughter. Brooklyn Bridge & Pebble Beach Elopement Portraits.

Photography Packages & Add-Ons

To capture your City Hall elopement in the most authentic way, I offer tailored photography collections:

Urban Collection (3 Hours): Perfect for couples who want ceremony coverage and post-ceremony portraits. Complimentary 35mm film included.
Intimate Celebration (5 Hours): Ideal for couples who want to include a post-ceremony brunch or dinner celebration with family and friends.
Add-Ons Available: Additional film photography, extended coverage, and second photographer options available upon request.

Want to see the full breakdown? Check it out here!

Lastly, Remember to Breathe & Be Present

You likely choose a City Hall elopement because you wanted it to be stress-free and filled with joy. Take a deep breath, soak in the moment, and trust that everything will come together beautifully. The beauty of an intimate wedding is that it's all about the two of you—so embrace every second of it!