NYC Wedding Officiant for Manhattan Elopements

Picture it: a quiet bend along a Central Park path, the Flatiron Building glowing behind you, a private rooftop with the skyline at your back, or a candlelit corner of your favorite West Village bistro. Just the two of you—or a small circle of the people who matter most.

I’m Lori, a Manhattan local who spends her days uncovering the most iconic and romantic spots in the city for Visit Manhattan. As a registered NYC wedding officiant, I’d love to marry you in one of them.

My ceremonies are short, heartfelt, and completely tailored: 20 minutes focused entirely on your story. No stressful 200-person guest lists or expensive ballrooms—just an authentic, legal ceremony in the world’s most romantic city.

Whether you want an iconic NYC backdrop or a cozy neighborhood hideaway, I officiate across all of Manhattan:

Central Park: Bethesda Terrace, Conservatory Garden, Shakespeare Garden, Wagner Cove, or Bow Bridge.
Waterfront Views: Battery Park City, Hudson River Park, and Pier 57’s elevated rooftop park.
Architectural Landmarks: Madison Square Park, Washington Square Park, and the Grand Central neighborhood.
Restaurants & Private Rooms: Say “I do” right at the table, then transition seamlessly into dinner.

Need help choosing a location? Explore our free guides to Eloping In NYC and The Best Manhattan Restaurants for Micro Weddings.

Pricing: What’s Included: $250 Flat Fee

One simple price. No hidden travel fees. Manhattan ceremonies only.

Planning Session: A 15-minute call to get acquainted and customize your ceremony.
Personalized Ceremony: A 20-minute tailored ceremony at your chosen Manhattan location.
Custom Elements: Include personal vows, readings, or a ring exchange.
Legal Execution: Official signing of your marriage license with your witness.
Filing & Follow-Up: Complete submission of your signed license to the NYC City Clerk’s Office.

How It Works

Submit an Inquiry: Share your target date, preferred Manhattan location, and vision.
Obtain Your NYC Marriage License: Apply online via NYC’s Project Cupid. Complete your appointment to receive your license (note: New York requires a 24-hour waiting period before the ceremony).
Customize Your Ceremony: We’ll connect for a brief call to align on your vows, structure, and preferences.
Say “I Do”: Arrive with your marriage license and one witness (age 18+). I handle the ceremony, license signing, and official filing.

Do you officiate ceremonies outside of Manhattan?

No. I focus exclusively on Manhattan, which allows me to deeply understand local permit rules, lighting, and timing for every venue.

Do we need a witness to Elope in NYC

Yes. New York State law requires at least one witness who is 18 years of age or older to attend and sign the license. If you can’t find one, we can supply one for $50.

Can we write our own vows?

Absolutely. Personal vows are welcome, and I will seamlessly weave them into the ceremony structure.

Do we need a park permit?

NYC Parks require an official permit for gatherings of 20 or more people. For smaller elopements, permits are optional but recommended if you want to reserve a specific spot.

We are visiting from outside New York / outside the US. Can we still marry here?

Yes. New York has no residency or citizenship requirements. Your marriage is legally binding across the U.S., and international couples can obtain an Apostille for legal recognition abroad.

Are the ceremonies secular or religious?

Our ceremonies are secular, however, please feel free to include anything you would want me to say that may have religious meaning.

Manhattan makes every moment feel extraordinary. Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable. Now accepting bookings for ceremonies starting December 2026.

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