How To Elope On Vacation in NYC
One day, you’ll look back on your holiday photos and think, “That’s the trip where we got married in New York.”
Planning a holiday together as a couple is such a creative and fun bonding experience. It’s kind of like wedding planning, but with way less stress and way more excitement. Now, imagine this: you’re already dreaming about your favorite restaurants, shopping sprees, and Broadway shows. You’re packing your bags for NYC, ready for the trip of a lifetime.
And then it hits you. Why not get married while we’re there?
Seriously… why not? NYC is the ultimate backdrop for a wedding that’s spontaneous, stylish, and intimate. Whether it’s a last-minute decision or something you’ve been plotting for months, weaving an elopement into your holiday is the best way to elevate your trip into something unforgettable.
Elope and Explore: Two Birds, One Epic Adventure
So many of our couples come to NYC with a holiday already planned — sightseeing, eating their way through the city, and checking out all the iconic landmarks. Somewhere along the way, they realize, “Wait, we could get married while we’re here?!” And just like that, their dream trip gets a major upgrade.
Not to sound like a broken record here, but eloping is fun and ridiculously easy… especially when you book an elopement package that covers everything. Photographer? Check. Officiant? Check. Logistics? Double check. All you need to do is roll into NYC and let us bring your vision to life.
How Fast Can I Plan My NYC Elopement?
Legally, you only need 24 hours in NYC to get your marriage license before your ceremony. Our personal record for pulling off a last-minute NYC elopement is 72 hours.
Take Kelly and her fiancé, for example. They’re a couple from Scotland who reached out to us last November. They had an amazing Christmas trip to NYC planned but were debating waiting until the next year to tie the knot. On the call, Kelly confessed she was anxious about waiting another year. Her dream was to get married on this trip.
So I said, “Do you have a vision for your wedding day?”
She did. And that was all we needed.
From Dream to “I Do” in Just Three Weeks?!
Those three weeks were a whirlwind of planning and excitement. Kelly upgraded to our VIP concierge package, which meant we handled everything — her suite at The Plaza, custom florals, hair and makeup, a vintage taxi, and dinner reservations at The River Café.
We were in constant contact, so she could text us anytime with questions or ideas. The day came together beautifully, and Kelly couldn’t believe we pulled it all off so quickly. But I could. This is what we do! When you have a vision and let us take the reins, we’ll make it happen.
Planned or Spontaneous? Your Choice.
Not every NYC elopement needs to be a last-minute adventure. Some of our couples plan their trips (and their elopements) 18+ months in advance. With that much time, we can dive into all the fun details, from insider tips on NYC’s best spots to creating a day that reflects exactly what you want.
And then there are the Aussies, my Spirit animal. Australians just know how to do life. They often plan epic 3 to 6 week holidays to the States, and NYC is always on their list. For them, it’s a no-brainer to turn their trip into a wedding adventure. Why wouldn’t you get married in NYC, the most iconic city in the world?
We’ve planned incredible weddings for couples from all over the world who brought their close friends and family along and explored the city together after their ceremony. If you’re thinking about combining your NYC holiday with an elopement , let’s go over some FAQs to make sure you’re covered.
FAQs About Eloping on Holiday in NYC
Q: Can I get married while I’m on vacation in NYC?
A: Absolutely! NYC makes the process ridiculously easy. All you need is at least 24 hours to get your marriage license. Once that’s sorted, we take care of everything else, from officiants to photographers to timelines and the rest of the logistics.
Q: Are there residency requirements?
A: Nope. You can live anywhere in the world and still get legally married in NYC. Unlike Paris (where you need to live there for 30 days first — who has time for that?), NYC welcomes couples from all over the globe with open arms.
Q: Is there a notice period?
A: No. Unlike the UK or parts of Europe, there’s no need for advance notice. Just show up, get your license, and you’re good to go. When I speak to couples from overseas — especially European countries such as the UK, Germany, or Spain — they are always shocked at American efficiency and simplicity.
Q: What documents do I need?
A: Just your government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.). Seriously, that’s it.
Q: Do I need a certificate of non-impediment?
A: Nope, NYC doesn’t require one.
Q: What if my documents aren’t in English?
A: If your documents need to be translated, don’t worry, we’ll guide you through the process. We’ll also help you ensure your marriage is legally recognized in your home country. That’s what we’re here for.
Why NYC Is Perfect for Your Holiday Elopement
NYC isn’t just a city, it’s a VIBE. It’s bustling streets, iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and endless opportunities to create a day that’s as unique as you are.
Whether you’re envisioning a quiet ceremony in the park, an intimate celebration surrounded by the city skyline, or a quirky, off-the-beaten-path elopement, NYC has it all. And with us as your guides, you’ll have everything you need to make your day unforgettable.
Let’s Dream Big Together
We know this city inside and out — the hidden ceremony spots, the best places for post-vows cocktails, and the quiet corners where you can take it all in.
Planning your trip now? Let’s start mapping out your perfect New York elopement so you can land, marry, and celebrate all in one epic holiday.
