City Hall Weddings in New York City

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Your guide to having your wedding at the City Hall Marriage Bureau.

Couples who plan on getting married in NYC locally and from out of town love the simplicity of a City Hall wedding. I personally love photographing weddings at City Hall because I get to capture all different couples from all over the world on one of the happiest days of their lives.

I’ve photographed hundreds of couples at City Hall so I know what the process is like and what you need to have a good experience and quality photography that you can keep for memories.

Here are some tips for planning your wedding at the marriage bureau

• Book your appointment in advance. Marriage licenses are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, so booking your appointment in advance is essential, especially if you’re getting married during peak season (May-October).
• Decide on your ceremony time. Typically, it’s better in the mornings. They break for lunch at NOON for an hour, so you don’t want to be stuck waiting around.
• Hire a photographer. A photographer can capture the special moments of your wedding day, from getting your marriage license to saying your vows.
• Make it your own. There are many ways to personalize your wedding at City Hall.

I have photographed countless weddings as a City Hall Wedding Photographer. I know everyone there by name, and they recognize me every time I stroll through the hallway. Having worked here many times means my expertise has led me to find every angle possible for the best photos under any lighting conditions.

Not only can I be your City Hall wedding photographer, but I can also help you plan your day around your ceremony.   I can help suggest and arrange your lunch or dinner reservations, transportation (taxi, Uber, limo), floral arrangements, dress/tuxedo rentals, and any other addition to your NYC Wedding Planning needs. As a New York native, you won’t find anyone who knows New York City better than I do!

What if we are from overseas and want to elope to NYC?

After eloping at the marriage bureau, you must return to the front desk and apply for an extended certificate. You head to the Supreme Court Building at 60 Centre St with this certificate.

123 William Street. Or if you have me as your photographer, I can buy in advance for you at a bank or personal check, saving you time and a journey. The Apostille accepts this “short” certificate with authentication after they accept your money order and the paperwork.

How Much Time Should I Dedicate to this day?

The actual wedding ceremony is around two minutes.  The best days of the week are Tuesday through Thursday and midday to avoid long wait times. Mondays and Fridays have always been the BUSIEST!

How Much Do Marriage Licenses Cost?

The marriage license is $35 and the ceremony fee is $25

What Forms of Identification Would We Need to Get a Marriage License?

Thankfully, this isn’t a trip to the DMV. Click here for a valid list of identifications.

How Do I Get to the New York City Hall Marriage Bureau?

The destination for the marriage bureau will be 141 Worth Street. It’s a clerk’s office conveniently located nearby. Consider using Uber, Lyft, or a taxi to get there.

What Do We Do About Flowers?

You can purchase them from a local florist or make your own.

Are there snacks, food, or drinks?

Unfortunately, they do not sell food or drinks inside for safety reasons. You can purchase food or drinks outside on the corner by the stand. I recommend bringing your own if you plan on waiting a long time to elope.

What can we do after our ceremony?

After your ceremony, we will take pictures around the marriage bureau. We can also head to Brooklyn Bridge if the weather is nice, or Dumbo, or City Hall Park. I’m also available to go uptown and take Central Park photos.

Some out-of-towners or couples who want a staycation will book places like The Beekman Hotel. If you do book a room there, you are allowed one hour of photos in designated areas.

Inquire for availability below.

Below is a Google Maps map of the Marriage Bureau’s location in Manhattan. The address is 141 Worth Street.