City Hall in New York Re-Opening for Weddings in Person!
It’s finally time! City Hall (aka the Manhattan Marriage Bureau or Office of the City Clerk) in NYC has re-opened its doors as of Friday July 23rd for in person wedding ceremonies after being closed since March of 2020. I’m so excited this iconic office to once again be welcoming couples who want to get married.
What to expect at your In Person Wedding Ceremony at City Hall in NYC
I’ve been helping couples get married at City Hall in NYC for over a decade now and I’m so excited to be able to be back at my favorite government office building. However, due to the lingering effects of Covid, things are looking to be a bit different this time around. Here’s what you can expect after the reopening of City Hall for in person weddings in NYC.
You’ll Need to Make an Appointment
Unlike previously, when there were no appointments allowed and everything was first come first serve, now appointments will be required. You can book your appointment at: https://clerkscheduler.cityofnewyork.us/s/MarriageCeremony
There is an appointment every 15 minutes. Appointments are currently available a few weeks in advance. Be sure to check for cancellations if needed and book as soon as your date becomes available. **Please note, you will still need to complete your marriage license at least 24 hours before your ceremony, so make sure you get on Project Cupid well in advance to make sure your paperwork is in order before booking your marriage ceremony.
Is City Hall crowded for weddings?
Unlike in the “before times” when the line could stretch down the block and the office was wall to wall people, only 100 couples per day will be allowed to get married at City Hall. This is dramatically lower than before, so I expect there will be quite a backlog for a few months.
On the plus side, I have found that this usually limits the wait required. Whereas before you could expect at least an hour to get through the entire process, I have found most couples are getting through in about 20-ish minutes. I have had one couple have to wait at least 45 minutes, so do be prepared that it could vary.
After shooting a few weddings at City Hall since re-opening, I can confirm that the are virtually no crowds, as the office is almost entirely empty. You’ll be one of about 4-ish couples in the office at a time, so no worries about a crush of people.
Can I bring all my friends?
Unfortunately no, due to Covid restrictions, only one witness is allowed per couple. If you chose to have a photographer, I will be happy and honored to be your witness as always. I will let you know as soon as I hear if this restriction is lifted, or how flexible they are being in terms of children, etc.
Friends and family can certainly meet you at the exit for a confetti toss! I’m happy to coordinate this and have found it still works quite well!
How much does it cost for an in person ceremony at City Hall?
The cost of a City Hall Wedding in NYC will be the same; $35 for the license and $25 for the ceremony.
Will we have to wear a mask?
Yes, current rules state that couples must wear masks at all times, however may seal their vows with a kiss sans mask. Everyone entering the Clerk’s Office should also be vaccinated and will have to answer a health questionnaire to make sure they are showing no Covid symptoms.
Have more questions about getting married at City Hall? I’m happy to help! Shoot me an email and let’s work out the details!
