Hiring a wedding photographer is one of the most important parts of your wedding planning process. The flowers, the cake, the DJ; those things help make up the story, but they’ll be gone at the end of the night. The photos? You’ll have those for a lifetime. Making sure you have a photographer who can best capture your day will help you keep your memories alive for years to come.

When it comes to hiring a wedding photographer, there are SO many to choose from, especially in New York City. The options might seem over whelming, and once you found a few that you like, how do you actually make the best choice?

I’ve spoken to tons of couples over the years. I find that some come to meetings with pages of questions prepared and others just hope for the best and I’m able to guide them through the process as well. No matter what, I figured it’s always helpful to have a baseline of questions that you might ask a potential wedding photographer, and knowing what I know about the business, here are a few you should always ask.

Can I see a full gallery or two?

Why is this question important? Of all the things you ask, I’d say this one is one of the most important. When a photographer puts together a portfolio for a website, they’re going to pick and choose their best shots. A lot of folks can get lucky and get a few good shots from a wedding. However, being able to make the whole day look good? From great lighting in portraits to low lit dance floor? That takes a professional and you should know what to expect from a full day of wedding coverage from whoever you plan to hire.

Rather than have you worked at my venue before, have you photographed anywhere similar?

Just because a photographer hasn’t worked at your venue before, doesn’t mean they won’t be able to make awesome photos. If you’re at a venue that has something that might make it difficult or some other concern, you can always ask if they’ve worked somewhere similar and can share those photos so you know what to expect.

Do you have experience with the type of wedding we’re having?

Related to the above… this doesn’t mean a photographer won’t take great photos if they haven’t, but if you’re having a wedding with lots of cultural traditions, someone familiar with said traditions might ease your mind in that they know what to expect. However, it’s worth noting, photographers are often artists who thrive in capturing new experiences they have never had before.

How do you back-up your work after a wedding? Do you bring extra equipment to weddings?

If your photographer doesn’t have your wedding backed up in multiple locations and isn’t photographing it on two memory cards to start with, they are not worth your time. End of story. Similarly, make sure they have extra back-up gear with them. Every photographer should have extra bodies, memory cards, etc. You can never be too careful.

What happens in case of emergency?

In the same vein as above… what happens if they can’t make your day? What networks do they have in place to call on in case of emergency?

Do you have the proper insurance?

Does your venue require a certificate of insurance? Make sure your photographer has it. I carry a one million dollar policy, if your venue needs a copy just ask.

How soon will receive our images?

This is a big one. There is a LOT of variation around what to expect here. Some folks are much quicker than others, but good work takes time. A month or two is a very reasonable expectation for photography, especially in busy season, six months is not. Make sure their delivery deadlines are in your contract.

Do you have any vendors you’d recommend?

If you’re looking for a vendor team that works well together, it’s always great to ask who folks recommend. Also, many vendors like to surround themselves with people who have a similar vibe to theirs. So it can even help you get a better feel for the work they do.

What rights do we have with our images?

Different photographers have different policies with their images. If it’s important to you how you can use your images afterwards, it’s always good to clarify with the photographer what their policies are.

What kind of editing do you do?

It’s good to know what to expect going in. If you’re expecting a photographer to fully airbrush every image you should know what their policy is. Some photographers do a lot of retouching others barely touch an image after it’s taken. There’s nothing wrong with either, but if you have expectations, you should know what you’re getting. On the same token, it’s good to know how many color vs black and white you can expect.

How many images will we receive?

Another one that is very important to make sure you’re on the same page to know what to expect. If you’re thinking you’ll receive thousands of images and you only get 300, you’ll be disappointed. However, if you know what to expect going in, everyone will be happier. Thousands aren’t always better either, wading through that many images can be work!

What kind of presence do you have on a wedding day?

It’s good to know if you want a photographer taking charge, someone who blends in, or something in between. Ask them about their working style during different parts of the day to see if it matches what you’re looking for.

Do you have a contract? And how does payment work?

If your photographer is a pro, they will absolutely have a contract. You need one to protect you and them. Find out how payment is handled and when payments will be due. Do you need a payment plan? Ask. Some photographers can work with you to make your budget work.

Lastly, overall, do you LIKE them?

Can you see yourselves hanging out with this person for a day? Whether this means you have shared interests, or you just think they could make you laugh or calm your nerves on a wedding day, if you think you’d enjoy hanging out, it’s a good sign. Whether an hour elopement or multi day event, if you enjoy hanging out with your photographer, the photos will be that much better!

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So you’ve made the decision to get married in Central Park. Awesome. I’d argue that Central Park is one of the most iconic urban parks in the world, and it’s a beautiful spot to get married! If you’re planning your wedding or elopement in Central Park I’d love to help to make sure you have the best experience possible.

I’ve been photographing weddings and elopements in Central Park since about 2010, so I’m very familiar with the area and how to get married in Central Park. The best news for you? It’s SUPER easy to get married and have your wedding or elopement  in Central Park.

What are the steps to get married in Central Park?

Step One: Get a marriage license

Get your marriage license. There are two main things you need to get married in Central Park; one of them is a New York marriage license. How do you get your marriage license? Well, currently (as of February 2022) you need to get an appointment with the City Clerk’s office. You’ll have to fill out paperwork and then get an appointment to have everything verified by the clerk and pay your fee of $35. You can have an appointment online or in person to do so. Remember, it doesn’t have to be at the Manhattan office if you’re looking for in person appointments. If things are tight, I’ve also had couples have success getting their license either in Long Island or up in Westchester or the Hudson Valley.

More information on getting your license can be found on my blog here: Getting your Marriage License Online in New York or on the Project Cupid website.

Step Two: Find a New York Wedding Officiant

Find an officiant. This can be done in conjunction with Step One, but is the other item you need to have for getting married in Central Park. There are only three things you need to get married in Central Park. They are your marriage license, an officiant, and a witness. I’m always happy to be a witness and have done so hundreds of times for couples. In regards to how to find the best officiant for your Central Park Wedding, I wrote a whole blog post about the process here: How to Find an officiant for your New York Wedding. Check it out for some of my favorite New York officiant recs.

Step Three: Pick a location for your Central Park Wedding

Decide on where and when you want to have your Central Park Wedding. Central Park is HUGE. There are SO many options for where to have your wedding ceremony. I joke that Central Park is essentially my office, and I’m always happy to help couples pick the best ceremony spot to meet their needs. Don’t let the size of the park overwhelm you, it’s totally manageable if you know where you’re going, and I happily will be your guide for your wedding day.

Whether that be a tucked away corner of the ramble or North Woods, a rock with an epic skyline view or a pavilion with seats for all your family and friends, I’m certain I know the best spot for you. I wrote a guide for Central Park weddings that includes lots of the most popular spots, so that’s a great place to start for suggestions.

In regards to time of day, this is a popular question with weddings and elopements in New York City. Personally, I absolutely LOVE a sunrise elopement or wedding in Central Park. You have the park to yourself with no crowds, the light is gorgeous and everything is quiet and peaceful. However, I realize, especially in the summer time, this can be a very early wake-up call. My advice to couples is, if you care about not having crowds, the earlier you’re willing to go in the morning the better and mid-week will be better than weekends. You can also opt for less crowded sections of the park for quieter moments, the northern reaches of the park or the ramble tend to be quieter than anywhere around Bethesda Terrace which is the busiest spot in the park.

If you don’t want an early morning, just before sunset is also lovely light-wise and in the summertime will also offer the benefit of being much cooler in temperature.

Step Four: Do you need a permit for your Central Park Wedding or Elopement?

Figure out if you need a permit. There is one place in Central Park where having a permit for your wedding is absolutely essential, that’s the Conservatory Garden. This is a beautiful spot for weddings, and I always love photographing in the Conservatory Garden. However, it is necessary to have a permit here, and they are slightly expensive. You can apply for the permit on the Central Park website here.

If you are getting married elsewhere in the park, it’s not required for you to have a permit unless you will have more then 20 guests. If it’s a small ceremony you don’t need a permit. However, if you’re getting married in a popular spot, many couples opt to have one as it essentially gives you “dibs” on the spot. There is no formal signage or park staff that blocks off your selected location during the time that you have a permit, but should someone else be there, you can let them know that you have reserved the space. Additionally, you can have peace of mind knowing that should some else be seeking to have a wedding there and also attempt to get a permit, they will be informed the space is already reserved.

Park permits for spaces other than Conservatory Gardens are $25 and can be reserved here.

Step Five: Have your Central Park Wedding and Get Married!

Get Married! That’s it! If you’d like to get other vendors, flowers, make-up, hair, etc. I’m happy to help with recommendations, but it really is just a matter of license, officiant, pick location, get married! DONE.

Looking for locations for portraits? Where to go for a celebratory drink? How to get to Central Park from your hotel? I can help with all these things and more if you’re planning your Central Park wedding, just let me know!

Check out more information and all the details about getting married in Central Park on my Guide to Central Park Weddings or contact me for more information or to schedule your wedding today!

The post How to Get Married in Central Park || A Step by Step Guide to Central Park Weddings appeared first on NYC Elopement and Wedding Photographer.

They arrived from the Cayman Islands and were staying near Madison Square Park where they had gotten engaged on a previous trip to NYC so we figured it would be fun to start our photos there the morning of their elopement. Madison Square Park is a fun photo spot, especially with the views of the Empire State Building and normally the Flat Iron Building as well when it’s not under construction.

The morning we met up it had been raining off and on, so I was slightly worried we would get wet, but the weather gods were on our side and everything cleared up as the day went on, hurrah!

We took full advantage of the city streets and skyline views of midtown and had a fun wander around the square before heading downtown to get married at the City Clerk’s Office.

I also loved their fun, casual wedding look! Laura got custom made sneakers for their wedding day and they looked super cute with her summer dress! Who says you need to wear white to get married?! Wear what you love and makes you happy and the photos will be great!

So, the 10 million dollar question… What are City Hall Weddings in NYC like during Covid??

I’ve now done a handful since the City Clerk’s Office in NYC reopened for weddings and I’m here to say, it’s great! And a bit different than before.

What is different about NYC City Hall Weddings after the Covid re-opening?

• You will need an appointment! You still need to get your marriage license beforehand, but you will also need to be sure to make an appointment for your city hall ceremony. Appointments can be made via their Project Cupid website. Also be sure to follow on Twitter, as new appointments being released are announced there.
• Make sure to be prompt for your appointment! This is ESPECIALLY true for the 3:45pm appointments. The office closed promptly at 3:45pm, so if you’re late, you will NOT be able to get married.

• The wait is almost eliminated. This is one of the great things about this new system. Whereas before you often had a long, unpredictable wait to be married at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, now it’s almost always in and out in 15 minutes or so. The office is almost empty everytime I’ve been through with the appointments. You check in, sign your paperwork, and then get married in one of the two chapels. It’s quick and easy.

• You DO have to wear a mask and show proof of vaccination. While the clerks I have photographed with have allowed couples to take their mask off for the ceremony/kiss if they chose, you will need to wear a mask while everywhere else in the building.
• No large parties allowed. You are only allowed one witness. I’m happy to do this for couples, but just note no one else is allowed in. They can however await your exit with confetti outside if you like!

The City Hall backdrop is still there for any cheesy photo needs!

You can still make a grand exit if you like from the rear door. I’m happy to set up any cheering family or friends if you bring them along! Niall and Laura were traveling with just the two of them, but I made sure to give them a hearty round of applause as they left the clerk’s office.

Where should you go for photos after your City Hall Wedding? Laura and Niall picked two great spots! Chinatown is always a great option with loads of colorful backdrops. Laura had an awesome Just Married jacket to wear after the ceremony! I love all these lanterns that have been put up in Chinatown, they make the street wanders so fun for photos.

After Chinatown, we hopped across the bridge to Dumbo and Brooklyn Bridge Park. It’s a quick taxi ride, and makes for more colorful backdrops and some extra skyline to finish out the day!

You can’t go to DUMBO without a stop for the Manhattan Bridge on Washington Street.

We finished up photos on the waterfront and it was the perfect end to such a fun City Hall Wedding day! I’m so excited to start seeing more couples come to town for weddings as things continue to open up. If you’re looking for any information about how to elope in New York, be sure to reach out, or check out all my info on eloping in NYC or  NY Local posts. I’m always happy to help! Congrats to Laura and Niall and cheers to eloping in the city!

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There are so many great places to have a micro wedding in NYC. As an elopement photographer, I’ve captured elopements and micro weddings everywhere from Top of the Rock, the back of the Staten Island Ferry, hotel rooftops, to tiny community gardens in the East Village. If you’re looking for tucked away spots to have your wedding or elopement, I’d love to help you find them. One of the most popular spots for elopements and micro weddings in NYC will always be Central Park!

If you’re looking for where to have your Central Park Micro Wedding, this post is for you. Central Park is HUGE. Within the park there are so many hidden nooks and pathways and there are loads of wonderful places to have a wedding or elopement. This post will focus on some of my favorites and the most popular, but if you don’t see anything that catches your eye here, reach out, this list is by no means exhaustive. As a Central Park Wedding Photographer, I’m always happy to recommend other places and help find the perfect spot for you!

First, there are a few things to consider when planning where to have your micro wedding in Central Park.

Who are you bringing to your Central Park Wedding?

How many people are you bringing to your micro wedding? What counts as a micro wedding varies widely for each couple. I regularly photograph Central Park elopements where it is just the couple, myself and an officiant. However, for some, they’d like a few close friends or family to be present, which is great. Knowing how many guests is helpful in determining which venue would be best for you as you don’t want to cram a big group into a tiny space.

Do you any of your guests need a seat? There are a few spots where a grandparent or other guests with mobility issues could easily be seated. Some spots are also more easily accessible than others.

What kind of view do you want for your small wedding in Central Park?

Would you like to get married with a view of the skyline? The Belvedere Castle? We can do that! Or we can just be close enough so you can get photos with family with skyline right after.

Is being covered from the elements important to you?

There are a few spots that are more covered then others, some are more out in the open. We can always bring umbrellas even it does decide to rain.

How private do you want your Central Park Micro Wedding to be?

This is a tricky one for small weddings and elopements in Central Park as it is a public park and nowhere is ever going to be completely closed off. There are a few spots that are certainly quieter than others. If privacy is a concern, I always highly recommend opting for early in the morning. The earlier you go, the less likely you will be to face a crowd for portraits or the ceremony.

So where should you get married in Central Park?

Below are a list of some options, and as I mentioned, if you don’t see anything that strikes your fancy, let me know, I’m always happy to hunt out more spots, the options are virtually endless in the park! This post doesn’t even explore on the North Woods, the Harlem Meer, Belvedere Castle and Turtle Pond, or Bow Bridge so if you’re looking for options, don’t be shy, we’ll find something for you.

Ladies Pavilion & The Rocks at Hernshead

The Ladies Pavilion is one of the most popular places for weddings in Central Park. It’s quite central to other photo locations and offers some cover from the elements. It also provides two benches for guests on either side if you have relatives who need a seat.

Other things to note: it’s fairly accessible, no stairs are required, and it’s directly down a path from Central Park West.

Permit Required: No, but recommended during busy season/hours to reserve the space.

Guests: I’d say comfortably around 10. With most outside the pavilion. You could do more, but it will get crowded very quick.

Privacy: You’ll have the pavilion to yourself, but park goers will be walking past and may stop to watch.

The Rocks at Hearnshead

I include this spot in tandem with Ladies Pavilion as it’s directly adjacent. I’ve only done a couple ceremonies here, but I love this spot. It offers awesome views of the midtown skyline and requires a touch of adventure to reach.

Notes: This spot is not accessible for any guests with mobility issues and no permits are issued as it’s not a defined space for weddings.

Guests: 1-3, this is not a big space for guests.

Privacy: Totally dependent on time of day, but generally you’re open to the public and this is a busier spot in the park right next to the Ladies Pavilion.

Cop Cot

This is the biggest shelter in the park and great if you’re having a slightly bigger affair. It’s somewhat covered, pending the season. In the summer and fall the vines fill in and provide some shelter from passing rain and shade from the sun. It’s also very accessible, no stairs, but a brief uphill walk from Central Park south. There’s no view from within the shelter, but the skyline views are available for photos right outside.

Guests: You can have a fairly big crowd here, 25 guests would be comfortable and there are benches around the pavilion.

Permits: If you’re having a bigger wedding here, it may be wise to get a permit so you can have the space reserved.

Privacy: You would have privacy within the shelter and there aren’t too many folks walking by. While not required, this is another spot where a reservation/permit can be good to make sure you have dibs on the space unless you’re going very early morning.

Dene Shelter

I love this shelter and it’s very under utilized for weddings! There are skyline views right outside, and even somewhat visible from the entrance. There are benches along the side for guests who may need them.

Guests: About 5-10 can be comfortable here. It’s located along a flat path so accessible for guests who may have mobility issues.

Permits: Not required, but having one reserves the space for you just in case.

Privacy: Fairly private. There can be people wandering outside, but it’s not nearly as busy as around Ladies Pavilion.

Cat Rock

Probably the premiere spot in the park if you’re looking for skyline views. As such, it can get busy depending the weather and the time of day/week, so plan accordingly. It’s not really a space you can get a permit for, more just a show up and go for it kind of spot.

Guests: You could have as many as you like as it’s an open space. But I’d say 10 would be a good number and there’s no seating. You have to enter over a few roots and dirt path, but otherwise it’s fairly accessible.

Privacy: Not at all, but earlier morning will provide fewer onlookers.

Bethesda Terrace

This is probably the most popular spot for tourists in the park. So keep that in mind for crowd control. I don’t normally recommend doing a ceremony here because it is so busy. However, it is the one spot in the park that is completely covered, so on a rainy day, it can be a lifesaver, and will also be fairly empty on a poor weather day.

Guests: I wouldn’t plan for too many since there are already usually large crowds. That said, since it’s not a super enclosed space more folks will be able to fit.

Privacy: It’s a crowded spot, so even in morning hours it’s likely you’d have an onlooker or two. As the day goes on there will almost always be musicians playing underneath, something to keep in mind as well.

Ramble with San Remo Towers

I’ve been shooting at this spot more often lately and I really like it. It’s nicely secluded, though there are often people walking by on the path farther back. It has a nice view of the towers, but isn’t quite as popular as other spots. It’s a short walk from Bow Bridge, so we’re very close to all the traditional Central Park spots. In addition to this spot, there are many wonderful nooks and crannies of the Ramble. There are waterfalls, bird feeders, Bethesda Terrace overlooks, Chamber’s Landing pavilion, and quiet meadows that would all make great ceremony spots.

Guests: 10-15 would be very comfortable here

Privacy: The actual spot is quite secluded, but folks are often walking by about 20 yards back.

Conservatory Garden

The Conservatory Garden is unique in that it is the one spot in the park that it is absolutely required that you have a permit to get married and/or take photographs. If you are up for the permit, it’s a beautiful landscaped garden and has some great spots for ceremonies, perfect for a micro wedding.

Guests: I’ve seen larger weddings upwards of 50 here on the terrace, but it gets crowded. Smaller gatherings in the 20ish realm would be very comfortable.

Privacy: The Conservatory Garden is very quiet and ceremonies here do tend to be fairly private, though even with a permit the public is still permitted in the garden.

Gapstow Bridge

There are a couple spots around the Gapstow Bridge that work great for micro wedding ceremonies. I wouldn’t recommend doing a wedding directly on the bridge, but both behind and in front of the bridge as well as up on the rocks in front of the pond with the bridge in the background are great for ceremonies and have an excellent view of the midtown skyline.

Guests: Depends on the location, but 5-8 is very doable. Larger groups can fit behind the bridge.

Privacy: Slightly more privacy behind the bridge, but you still will likely have a few onlookers and cheerleaders.

Wagner Cove

Wagner Cove is probably the most popular spot for micro weddings and elopements in Central Park along with the Ladies Pavilion. This tiny pavilion is very secluded and offers the perfect spot for a bit of privacy and a quiet atmosphere for your elopement.

Guests: This is a TINY location. I would suggest no more then 5-6 guests here at most. This spot is ideal for just the couple and an officiant and maybe two witnesses. The path curves around behind the structure, so any guests beyond the minimum will have a very hard time seeing the couple.

Privacy: This is probably one of the most private spots in the park for an elopement.

Where ever you chose, Central Park is an amazing place for your elopement or micro wedding. The backdrops are endless and it’s beautiful in every season! If you’d like more information on getting married in Central Park, be sure to check out my Central Park Wedding Guide or send me an email today. I look forward to hearing from you and photographing your Central Park Elopement!

The post The Best Places in Central Park to Have a Micro Wedding appeared first on NYC Elopement and Wedding Photographer.

2020 has been the year of the micro wedding! Covid 19 has rearranged the wedding plans of so many couples, and the result for many has been a smaller guest count and extra safety measures. While I of course love big weddings (bring on the crazy dance floor!) I also have been an elopement photographer for many years, and love the tiny wedding vibe. The new term, micro wedding, is right up my alley and I’ve been loving all these little gatherings I’ve gotten to photograph this year.

So, you might be asking, “How exactly do I have a micro wedding in NYC?”

Well, I’m here to help. First things first, what exactly is a micro wedding? Micro wedding can mean many different things, but for the moment, I’m considering it any kind of tiny wedding (think 20 people or fewer) that might be happening due to Covid 19, or just because you decided a smaller guest count was the way to go.

The first thing you need to do…get your New York Marriage License paperwork.

How to apply for your New York marriage license online during Covid:

This is a two part process. I wrote a whole post about applying for your marriage license in NYC online, so you can check that out for all the details. The gist of the matter though, is first, you need to apply for your license online through Project Cupid. Second, you’ll need to get an appointment with the clerk for your interview. They release dates regularly to do this. Keep on eye on their twitter account (@NYCClerk on Twitter) for when dates are going to be released.

If you can’t get through with Project Cupid, I’ve had many couples have success going to either Long Island, or upstate to the Hudson Valley or even Westchester to get their paperwork.

Second, pick your location.

Where Can I Have a Micro Wedding in NYC?

NYC is an ideal place for micro weddings, as there are so many locales that cater to small groups that still offer a great backdrop! Since the primary reason most folks are having a micro wedding at the moment is due to Covid, I’m going to keep this list heavy on the outdoor locations. There are a few standby locations that are always good bets.

A Central Park Wedding

Central Park is an ideal location for a micro wedding, particularly if your party is small, think 10 or fewer. Central Park is essentially free for weddings. You can apply for a permit for certain high demand spots, but it’s not required to do so if your party is under 20 people. The permit itself is $25, so totally reasonable if you decide to go for it. You can find the PDF with information on that here.

The only spot in the park that is more expensive is the Conservatory Garden. This space is beautiful, but as I mentioned, the permit is more expensive, and it is absolutely required to get married here. More information on Conservatory Garden Wedding Permits can be found on the Central Park site.

Great spots in Central Park for a wedding include:

Wagner Cove: Very private, but also very tiny. I wouldn’t have more than 5 people here, it’s ideal for just the couple and an officiant, and maybe a witness or two.

Ladies Pavilion: Hugely popular spot for weddings. It’s close to lots of great photo spots, and can handle a slightly larger group the Wagner Cove.

Dene Shelter: I love this space, and it also offers a good amount of privacy. Not too many people know it exists. It’s a medium size gazebo shelter, and can fit probably 10 guests comfortably.

Cop Cot: Another popular wedding site. This shelter is great as it’s easy to reach, being right next to the entrance. It is also the largest shelter in the park, so if you’re having a bigger group, you can easily fit them inside and have a private space for your ceremony.

I have a Complete Guide to Central Park Weddings on my site if you’re looking for more details.

Brooklyn Bridge Park Wedding:

Brooklyn Bridge Park is another fantastic spot for micro weddings in NYC. You get the backdrop of the city and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and it’s a free outdoor space! I have a post on my site with all the best locations for weddings in Brooklyn Bridge Park to check out if you’re looking to get married here.

Other City Parks:

Other than these two main options, there is so much other green space to chose from. There are lots of other parks that would work great for micro weddings, places like Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens, Carl Schurz Park on the Upper East Side, Fort Tyron Park in upper Manhattan, or Prospect Park in Brooklyn are all great options for your tiny wedding ceremony.

Top of the Rock

I love doing ceremonies at Top of the Rock, and it’s outside and currently open! This would be a great spot for a couple and an officiant.

Your apartment!

I’ve had this one work out really well lately. Do you have access to a rooftop or a backyard? That makes a great spot for a micro wedding. If it’s just the two of you, your living room can even be as good a spot as any.

Unique Locations for Small Weddings or Micro Weddings in NYC

The cool part about NYC is there are loads of funky spots that would make perfect locations for a small wedding in NYC. PeerSpace is a great website to head to to find interesting spaces to rent by the hour. There are cool rooftops, Brooklyn Lofts, small museums with beautiful gardens.

There are also spaces like Wanderlustre in Brooklyn that offer lovely little backgardens that are perfect for micro weddings if you don’t have your own backyard.

How to Hire an Officiant for your Micro Wedding

You need to have someone to marry you. Whether it’s a friend or a professional, just make sure they know the rules and how to fill out the paperwork. You can even have someone marry you virtually. Check out my officiant in NYC post, or contact me for a list of referrals. I’m happy to help you find someone to make your Micro Wedding officiant.

Safety Precautions

What safety procedures should I follow for a Micro Wedding during Covid?

Safety is something especially important to think about during Covid obviously. The main thing to consider is making sure everyone will know the rules and expectations up front. Make sure masks are readily available and/or everyone knows to bring or wear a mask. I’ve had weddings this year pass out masks in a coordinated color scheme, which was fun for guests. Keep guest numbers small. Make sure your guest count is small and that everyone can have plenty of space.

Get Married!

This is the fun part! Love is never cancelled and you can still have an amazing wedding day even during Covid. Let your guests know, if you’re having them, where to show up and then get yourselves married! I’m happy to help figure out any other details you might need and make referrals for vendors from make-up to flowers.

The post How to Have a Micro Wedding in NYC During Covid appeared first on NYC Elopement and Wedding Photographer.

As we navigate this new landscape, many questions arose about weddings. There are so many couples that were planning weddings, whether large or small that have had to postpone plans. As big weddings and even many elopements postpone, as many of my clients come from abroad, others still want tie the knot for a variety of reasons. Previously this hadn’t been possible as you needed to get your marriage license in person from the City Clerk’s Office which closed in mid March. However, no longer!

For those couples that are looking to get married, NYC now has a solution, enter Project Cupid!

As Mayor De Blasio said, “We need moments of joy now more than ever, and we won’t let a pandemic get in the way of true love. To all of the couples looking forward to tying the knot, know that your city is right here with you, throwing rice from afar.”

As I mentioned, in the past, the only way to get a marriage license in NYC was to do so in person at the City Clerk’s Office. While the people watching at the Clerk’s Office is the BEST, it often could be a rather long wait. Now however, as we all do our best to practice social distancing, waiting over an hour in a crowded city office for your marriage license wasn’t going to be a possibility. As of this week though, starting May 8th, all couples can now apply to receive their marriage license online! Hurray!

How does the process of getting a marriage license online in NYC work?

*Updated as of mid September 2020*

 How do you apply for a marriage license in NYC online?

The complete step by step process for getting married and getting a marriage license online in NYC can be found on the Project Cupid Website. The City Clerk is issuing licenses through October online, and will be extending the process as needed. (It’s already been extended a few times).

To complete the process for getting your marriage license online in New York you will need to:

1. Complete your online application and receive your confirmation number.

2. Log-In with an NYC ID. (You can register for one online, or use a preexisting one.)

3. Get Verified online. This will entail answered some identifying questions, providing ID’s, and confirming your marital status.

4. Pay the $35 fee.

5. Schedule a virtual meeting with the City Clerk.

6. Upload your completed marriage license after your ceremony.

      What if the dates are all filled up for appointments with the City Clerk?

I have found the best way to keep track of everything going on with Project Cupid is to follow them on Twitter (@NYCClerk). They post regularly when they will be releasing new dates and when new dates become available. Also, I have been told people often cancel, so check back regularly as something may open up.

Do you have to get your license from the NYC City Clerk to get married in NYC?

No! And this is a strategy that’s been working for some couples during Covid. While you may not be able to get an appointment with the NYC City Clerk, I have had couples have success going in person to other city hall offices in Long Island, the Hudson Valley, or even in Westchester. As long as your license is issued by the State of New York, you can get married in NYC.

Can we still have a City Hall wedding ceremony?

As of right now, no. But you can have any other officiant marry you from the comfort of your home, or in the location of your choice. According to the executive order signed by Governor Cuomo, any licensed officiant can perform your ceremony via video conferencing like Zoom. Luckily, I regularly work with several licensed officiants who are more then happy to do remote ceremonies and are thrilled to be participating in Project Cupid! If you’re looking for a list to start with, check out my post on NYC Wedding Officiants.

Does your witness have to be in the same space as you?

No, your witness, officiant and you both can all be in safely in your own home or wherever you chose to have your ceremony.

Does that mean we can be anywhere in the world and get married virtually?

NO. This is important. All parties involved; the couple, the witness, and the officiant MUST be physically located in New York State during the ceremony.

Also, when registering for your marriage license, the couple must be in the same physical space in New York State.

What are the eligibility requirements for a marriage license in NYC?

Please see the City Clerk’s website here: Marriage License Requirements in NYC for more information.

What do you do once you’ve been married?

You can log back into the site and upload your license signed by you and the officiant.

What about virtual wedding photography?

I’m so glad you asked! This is where I come in! I’m offering a few different options for couples interested in having their elopement via a virtual wedding ceremony or socially distanced wedding ceremony in NY. Send me an email and I can go over all the details!

Socially Distant Photography Session: 

If you chose to have a small elopement, micro or mini wedding with you and your spouse in a location where I can photograph you safely, I’m happy to do so. I’ll be sure to be wearing a mask and following proper safety procedures.

I’m happy to talk with couples on the best solution for you to make sure your memories are documented in the best way possible! I’m so excited to have more happy couples in front of my camera again! Three cheers for LOVE!

The post Getting a Marriage License Online in NYC || Having a Virtual Wedding in New York during the Corona Virus appeared first on NYC Elopement and Wedding Photographer.

You’ve made your decision, you’re going to get married in New York City! Hurray!

As an elopement photographer for couples who are often coming from abroad, I often find myself  in the role of helping couples through the process of getting married in New York and helping them find other quality vendors so they can have the best possible experience.

No matter what kind of wedding you’re having, a tiny elopement or a big affair, there are four things you actually need to have to get married in New York.

1. You and your spouse to be!
2. A marriage license, applied for 24 hours beforehand. Yes, you do actually need to have that pesky paperwork if you want to make things legal.
3. A witness. In New York you have to have one witness over the age of 18. You can have two if you like, but one is required. (I’m always honored and happy to be a witness free of charge!)
4. An officiant. In New York state you have to have a licensed officiant to perform the ceremony and sign off on the paperwork.

This post is all about number four, your wedding officiant. If you’re getting married at City Hall, you can skip this part. They’ve got this handled for you. However, if you’re considering getting married outside the clerk’s office, you will need to find your own New York wedding officiant. (If you’re not sure, check out this post about Where to Elope in NYC for the pros and cons of a City Hall Wedding) Over the years I have worked with tons of great officiants and am always happy to provide clients with a  list of some of my favorites.

Do you need to hire a wedding officiant in NYC?

If you’re planning on getting married outside the clerk’s office, you’ll need someone to marry you. Some people are afraid of this process, but it’s really quite simple. Officiants can make the ceremony as personable or as quick as you like, they can help you through all the paperwork you’ll need to get married in NYC, and they can make the process super easy!

If you have a friend or family member who has been ordained online, is actually clergy or who is a judge they can of course perform the ceremony. However, for many couples it can be nice to have an officiant who knows the process in NYC, is familiar with the paperwork and knows how to file it properly. They can also help you with any questions you may have and of course excel at giving a ceremony in front of a crowd or just the two of you, whichever you prefer.

Does a wedding officiant in NYC have to be religious?

Nope! That’s totally up to you. If you’d like a religious ceremony, there are officiants who can do that. If you prefer a secular ceremony, that’s great too! Officiants in New York can marry you inside or outside, in a religious venue or in a city park. The great part about eloping or getting married in NYC is you can get married wherever you like; from the top of Rockefeller Center to the Staten Island Ferry.

Many officiants can incorporate religious elements if desired, but it’s not a requirement for a wedding ceremony unless you chose to do so.

Will my wedding officiant support my LGBTQ wedding?

Any officiant I work with or recommend will always be accepting of all couples. I make sure to vet all vendors first to make sure they are supportive of all backgrounds so you don’t have to.

Does your officiant love to work with large or small weddings?

Some officiants love to play to a huge crowd, others more often work with tiny ceremonies. Set up a call or email with any officiants you’re interested in and you can get a feel for what kind of environment they prefer. Most are happy to work with any couple regardless.

Who should we hire for our wedding officiant in NYC?

I’m glad you asked! Having photographed elopements for nearly a decade and weddings since 2007 in NYC, I have lots of experience working with a ton of different officiants in the city. I’ve interviewed a few of my favorite below and included a list of others who I think are outstanding as well.

Sacha Jones

How did you get into being a wedding officiant?  My very first foray into the field was in 2002 when my sister and her then fiancé, now husband, came to NYC and decided they wanted to elope. It seemed as if their options were limited to “City Hall” or a religious institute and neither seemed quite right. So we decided to make something up ourselves that would be playful and fitting for the two of them.  We actually found a friend of a friend who was a judge to do the official paperwork, but I officiated the ceremony that friends would attend – and this is when I realized how important personalization is for this important milestone.  It was so much fun writing and creating that ceremony and definitely was when the seed was first planted.  Six years later my husband and I got married and we were faced with the same conundrum. We knew where we wanted to get married, and had the date set, but found it really hard to find someone to do it! We did find someone lovely, at the very last minute, but it definitely got me curious. Why was this so difficult? So a little deeper exploration led me to find the Celebrant Foundation & Inst., where I first studied the art & history of ritual & ceremony, and then took the course in Wedding Celebrancy and have been marrying beautiful couples ever since. (I have since taken the Funeral Celebrancy course as well, and my lifecycle milestone ceremonies range from birth to death).

How long have you been a wedding officiant?  Officially since 2010, with a little dabble in 2002 when the seed was first planted.

What is your favorite part about being a wedding officiant? Getting to know the couples during the lead up to the big day. Learning about them as individuals, as a couple, what they want for their ceremony, and very importantly learning about their love story.

Do you have any favorite or unique places you officiated weddings for couples in NYC?  Well I think the wedding I did “in motion” on the F train – “to the end of the line” – out to Coney Island will always be a favourite, that really was a special one. But I also love the cozy spots in Central Park, like Wagner Cove if it’s just the couple with maybe a couple of guests, and Ladies Pavilion & Cop Cot are also beautiful spots for a bigger wedding party. Central Park in general definitely seems to be a favourite location for elopers from overseas. It’s very romantic, but also simple and unfussy, and all the decor comes from nature which I love. I also love doing “guerilla style” covert weddings once in a while – like under a favourite tree in the Botanic Gardens or in a museum.

What is your best piece of advice for couples getting married in the city? 

– Be sure to get your marriage license at least 24 hours before you get married, and try to get to the City Clerks office before they open. (And if they are from overseas, to take into consideration getting their “extended form license” the next day!)

– Some spots are better for photos than the actual ceremony. Gorgeous backdrops are often going to be very crowded and noisy (think Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Bridge itself, Pebble Beach in DUMBO, Top of the Rock, and the High Line)…  if you want your guests to hear the ceremony, it’s best to pick somewhere quiet, then go on a photo shoot to those locations, just you and the photographer, because these spots really are very photogenic. Having said that, if it’s just the couple, we can usually get away with it.

Hope Mirlis

A More Perfect Union

How did you get into being a wedding officiant? I became a wedding officiant because a good friend of mine from grad school asked me to officiate her wedding. I said no at first, but she kept asking and wore me down! It was such a magical experience that I started the ordination process the very next day!

How long have you been a wedding officiant? That first ceremony was in 2010, so 8 years ago. It took me about 2 years to fully step into my calling and change the course of my career.

What is your favorite part about being a wedding officiant? There are two things I love. One is being able to go on this amazing journey with each and every couple. It’s a very humbling experience to be invited in and be able to tell their personal stories. And the other is when I pronounce the couple MARRIED! It’s not only a huge legal step, it’s an emotional one, as well.

What are some of your favorite or creative/unique elements that couples have added to their ceremonies? I love creating and making cocktails as a Unity Ceremony. Each of the ingredients symbolize something important or meaningful for the couple, I then shake or stir it and the couple drinks! I also had to opportunity to play with smell a few years ago. We burned some small cauldrons filled with copal and cedar, known for their cleansing properties and circled the guests to create a sacred space for the couple.

Judie Guild

How did you get into being a wedding officiant? In college and graduate school, I never imagined that I would ever become a professional wedding officiant. Then love inspired me. I fell in love. While I became a wedding officiant after I married, my love evolved, strengthened, and led me to performing wedding ceremonies. In other words, steadfast affection and desire opened me to new adventures and feelings. I learned more about my spouse, others, and myself. And I learned that I love learning about the varieties of love and its expressions. As a wedding officiant, I am able to immerse myself in diverse environments with diverse couples who are finding their ways to experience love.

How long have you been a wedding officiant?  Since June 2008, I have enjoyed the honor and joy of officiating weddings. I believe the “number” is around 2000 weddings and vow renewals now.

What are some of your favorite or creative/unique elements that couples have added to their ceremonies? Incorporating anecdotes, background, quotes, poems, and personal vows are the new traditions. These are the spoken elements that contribute to a tailored, custom marriage ceremony. I’ve also witnessed partners surprise each other with songs, poems, and even a mid-ceremony costume change. Sometimes, the unspoken cues and tokens are even sweeter. Gestures and clothes — the visual and the physical — creatively convey deep affection and connection.

Is there anything couples should know about you before hiring you to officiate their wedding? I think trust and hope are immensely valuable. Partners must trust themselves and each other first and foremost. Everyone makes mistakes, and perfection is a beautiful yet stressful, elusive, ever-shifting ideal to pursue. Wrapped in safety and hope, though, individuals grow. If couples trust, they know themselves. They can identify true needs and wants. I think this makes choices easier. They are able to gauge the style of an officiant and whether they feel comfortable overall with that person officiating.

Reverend Samora

Common Ground Ceremonies

How did you get into being a wedding officiant? I was on a spiritual journey and became an ordained interfaith minister in 2007.  When my friend found out I was ordained, she asked me to officiate her wedding.  We were both 8 months pregnant at the time (yes, 2 beach balls) but I fell in love with it.  When Marriage Equality was passed in NY, it affirmed my decision to continue because of my personal ties to the LGBTQ community.

How long have you been a wedding officiant? I started officiating in 2010 and have married more than 1,000 couples…woo hoo!!

What are some of your favorite or creative/unique elements that couples have added to their ceremonies? I am from a multicultural/multifaith family so I am down to celebrate and highlight anything!!  For me, the writing of personal vows is the “magic” to making any ceremony unique.  On occasion I get to perform some cool unity ceremonies like a celtic hand wrapping or a garland exchange (for example).  I also love to assist in finding readings that really match the couple’s style and personality.

What is your best piece of advice for couples getting married in the city? Keep it simple!  You can have the most magical wedding experience when you keep your plan simple.  Hire professionals who know how to support you in having the “best day ever”.  All you need is an amazing photographer and officiant if you are planning to elope!

Is there anything couples should know about you before hiring you to officiate their wedding? Every marriage is unique and so is every wedding.  I love to create personal, love-infused ceremonies that truly highlight what makes each couple awesome and unique.

Other Wedding Officiants in NYC I Love: 

Christopher Shelley of Illuminating Ceremonies

Mirelle Eid of Honeybreak Officiants 

Daniella VillaRamos and Karla Villar from Once Upon a Vow, both bilingual in Spanish and English.

Reverend Annie

Reverend D for those looking for a more offbeat vibe

Looking for more information on How to Elope in NYC? Check out my Guide to New York Elopements and Other Tips for Clients for everything you need to know!

The post How To Hire a Wedding or Elopement Officiant in NYC appeared first on NYC Elopement and Wedding Photographer.

I get lots of questions about when is the best time of year to elope in New York. The truth is, and I may be biased, but there are loads of wonderful things about each season. I even wrote a post about the best time of year for a New York wedding, each season has its own special features.

This time of year, all the question come about winter time. What do I think about winter weddings and elopements in NYC? Winter can be wonderful with beautiful snowfall, fewer crowds, holiday twinkle, and nice soft light. However, there are few extra things to think about this time of year. I get asked  all the time if you can still take photos outside? Can you still even have an outdoor ceremony? What if it snows? All are excellent questions, and really all are up to you and your comfort with the elements. As someone who grew up in the midwest, working in the cold is something I’m perfectly willing to do. However, I know not everyone feels the same way. I always leave it up to couples if they want to be in the elements, but some tricks can help you along the way if you’re willing to be brave and elope in the winter in New York!

What is the weather like in New York City in winter?

Many of my elopement couples come from abroad, and have questions about what kind of weather to expect for their winter elopement. This is always a tricky question to answer. I have gone for a run on Christmas Eve in NYC in shorts and a t-shirt, and I’ve also seen it basically blizzard on the exact same day. It’s impossible to predict. That said, I would be prepared for it to be chilly, definitely bring a warm jacket and be prepared for possible snowfall or icy rain. If it turns out to be warm, then you can always shed your layers!

Where to Elope in New York in Winter:

This is the first thing to consider when planning a winter elopement in NYC. Do you want to brave the weather even if it might be cold? For some folks, this is a clear yes. For others, a resounding no. No judgement either way, but something to consider for yourself.

Something to keep in mind, most elopement ceremonies are quite short. It’s always possible to have your ceremony, then snuggle up in a coat, grab a hot beverage, or I’m always happy to duck into coffee shops or cafes for a warm-up. Bonus, many cafes have cute windows which make for great photo opportunities!

So, back to the question, where to have your winter elopement? Your options are basically the same as they are at any time of year. Central Park is hugely popular, as is Brooklyn Bridge Park. Around the holidays Top of the Rock is always a top choice. However, with this option just note that A. photos around the tree can be bonkers unless you are there at sunrise, and B. it can get quite windy at the top, so be extra prepared for chilly temps. (The gift shop is always open though, so it’s quite easy to duck in and out to warm up).

If you want something inside, Grand Central is always an option, though can get quite busy during the holiday season. I have done ceremonies at the Museum of Natural History, but if you go this route, no real bridal looks, no flowers, and the ceremony needs to be extra short. Hotels, a nice Airbnb, or something of that nature are always great too. More ideas can be found in my what to do if it rains weather post. If you’d like a chapel back drop the Church of All Souls on the Upper East Side allows for non-congregants to get married with their own officiant.

How to Dress for your NYC Winter Elopement:

This obviously depends on if you plan on going the suit or the dress route, or somewhere in between. However, regardless of your fashion choice, be sure to bring a warm coat! At the very least have a shrug of some sort if you’re wearing a dress. If you don’t want to wear your coat for photos, that’s totally fine. You can easily slip in and out of it in between shots.

Layers! If you’re someone who’s wearing a dress (or even a suit for that matter) make use of warm tights! Keep those legs warm, no one will be the wiser in photos.

Footwear. Warm and dry toes go a long way for happy photos. It’s easy to take on and off boots, and/or just rock the winter footwear look, it can be pretty cute! NYC can get VERY slushy after a snowfall, so this is not the time to be walking the city streets in expensive heels.

What special things can you bring to help with the cold for a winter elopement:

Hot hands! (And feet!) These are the best little things and a life saver for cold outdoor winter elopements. They’re available on amazon or can be purchased from your local outdoor store.

A hot beverage. If you want to have a thermos of your favorite hot beverage to warm up, we can certainly bring that along.

Umbrellas. I’m always happy to bring along a big clear golf umbrella if the weather calls for it.

Hats and mittens. Keep those hands and ears warm in between shots!

What time of day should you get married in the winter in New York:

Time of day is a special consideration in the winter as it gets dark SO early this time of year. Sunset can be as early as 4:30pm, so if you’re hoping for something later in the day, be sure to keep that in mind for photos. On the other side of the coin, if you’d been hoping for a sunrise ceremony but never wanted to wake up that early, winter is great, as the sun doesn’t rise until after 7am, so you don’t have to struggle quite as hard for that early morning light.

Overall, winter can be a great time to get married in NYC! Just a bit of planning for a warm coat and a willingness to snuggle your love in the cold and we can get some great photos!

Happy planning!

If you’re looking for more information on How to Elope in NYC or Helpful Tips for Clients, be sure to check out my guides below:

Guide to NYC Elopements 

Helpful Hints for NYC Weddings and Elopements

The post How to Elope in New York in Winter | Winter Weddings in NYC appeared first on NYC Elopement and Wedding Photographer.

So you’re getting married and you’ve decided to elope in NYC. Congratulations! Now your next decision, where to have the ceremony? Many folks automatically think of City Hall when they consider eloping. If that’s the location that makes you happiest, then that’s the best spot for you to have your elopement ceremony! City Hall is an awesome spot for loads of couples every year and I love photographing City Hall Weddings!

However, I also find lots of couples don’t even realize they have other options. My hope is to let you know everything that’s available when you’re considered getting married in New York, then you can make the best choice for you! I’m always happy to offer suggestions and help you pick what’s best as I know it can be tricky to plan from afar as many of my couples do.

So, where SHOULD you elope in NYC?

You’ve got two primary options… inside and outside City Hall. City Hall, by the way, is also known as the Manhattan Marriage Bureau or the City Clerk’s Office. (For those unfamiliar with the situation in New York City, you don’t actually get married at the actual City Hall building.) There are also marriage offices in each of the 5 boroughs of NYC. For more on how to get married at City Hall, you can check my guide to City Hall weddings.

Why Get Married at City Hall in New York

You’ve made your choice and a City Hall wedding is for you! Awesome. Here are a few reasons why eloping at the City Clerk’s Office is a great option.

   •  It’s quick! Are you someone who doesn’t like to be the center of attention for too long? Do you not want to have to stress about writing your vows or picking a reading for a ceremony? City Hall is for you. The wedding ceremony at City Hall is about a minute long, maybe a minute and a half if you exchange rings. There are no personal vows and you’ll be official in no time at all.

•  It’s very affordable. If you’re on a very tight budget, this is something to consider. Ceremonies at City Hall cost $25.

•  The people watching. I maintain that City Hall in Manhattan is some of the best people watching in town. Folks from all walks of life in all manner of dress converge to get married here. It’s fun to see everyone so excited to be married all in one place.

•  It’s easy. There’s no planning to speak of. You show up and get married. No appointment or reservations required. There’s even a lovely flower vendor with a table outside if you’re feeling fancy and something to hold or pin on a jacket. You can also buy or rent (yes really!) flowers inside. If you’re not about the logistics, this might work for you.

•  It’s indoors. If you’re worried about the weather, there’s no need to have a rain back-up.

• The cheesy City Hall backdrop! I mean, you kind of have to take the photo right?!

Why Get Married Outside City Hall in New York

While City Hall Weddings are great, they’re not for everyone. Here are a few reasons why you might consider getting married somewhere other then City Hall. If these things are important to you then it might be a good option to look elsewhere for a ceremony. Don’t worry! Your wedding can still be simple, affordable and just the way you want it to be. In fact, it’s often way easier to get married outside the Clerk’s Office then people think.

•  A more personal ceremony. If you’d like to share personal vows, have a ceremony that’s a bit more involved, or include loved ones or children in your ceremony, then getting married outside City Hall is what you should do. It should also be noted you can a have a short and sweet ceremony outside the clerk’s office too! Choosing to get married outside City Hall just means you get to make the call.

•  A more flexible schedule. Want to get married on a Saturday? Or at sunrise or sunset? Then you’ll need to get married outside City Hall. City Hall hours are 8:30-3:45pm, so if you’re in search of that beautiful golden hour light or a quieter moment during sunrise, an outside City Hall Wedding is for you. (Exception: there are some points in the wintertime when there is a late sunrise or early sunset where portrait timing can line up with golden hour and a city hall ceremony.)

•  You don’t want to wait in line. City Hall wait times are notoriously unpredictable. While I’ve gotten through with couples in 20 minutes, it’s incredibly rare. I’ve also had to wait nearly two hours before. It really depends on the day. Generally speaking, you’re looking at about an hour wait on average. If you get married outside the Marriage Bureau, there’s zero wait time involved, and more time for photos!

•  There’s somewhere in the City that’s meaningful to you or you’d like to capture the city in your ceremony photographs. You can get married just about anywhere in New York. Whether it’s Central Park, or in front of the café you had your first date, Coney Island, a community garden or just somewhere with a view of the city, atop Rockefeller Center, the options are endless.

•  It can be surprisingly affordable. While City Hall is perhaps the cheapest… there are many ways to get married outside City Hall that are still very reasonable in cost. Any city park is a free venue, and most public spaces are available for free, just the cost of admission (like top of the rock), perhaps a small donation in the case of a community garden. I’m always happy to refer you to a number of local officiants who are excellent and won’t necessarily break the bank.

•  It can be simpler then you think. Many locations don’t actually require a permit, you can just show up and get married. I’m happy to help you through the process in the case there is paperwork required.

I believe that everyone should get married in the place that makes them the happiest! Whether that’s City Hall or Central Park or somewhere in between, where ever you decide to tie the knot will be awesome and I’d be honored to document it.

Do you have more questions about where or how to get married in New York City? I’m always happy to help! You can find my local advice posts here, covering everything from what to do if rains, how to get around for your elopement, to where to elope with a skyline view! Check out my Guide to New York Elopements for more information.

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