Eloping in New York, Central Park edition

Is eloping in New York a good idea? If you ask me, I would say yes because Adrian and I did it a while ago and we don´t regret it.

It's easy and doesn’t matter if you weren’t born in the USA. The first thing you need to do to elope in NYC is applying for a marriage license. You can go to any open Marriage Bureau in New York. Note that if you are obtaining one in person from the NYC Marriage Bureau, you will need to first book an appointment.

Pre-Covid, you could start the application online, then finish in person at one of the New York Marriage Bureau offices. It costs $35 (only by credit card, they do not accept cash), you both need some form of valid photo ID like a passport or driver’s license, and you must obtain the license at least 24 hours before getting married. Licenses are valid for 60 days If you are not a U.S. citizen, you should confirm that NYC wedding licenses are valid in your country — a quick call to your consulate should clear this up.

Since we weren’t citizens we had to apostille our marriage certificate to be valid in Mexico, that added a couple of extra hours on the same day of our wedding, at a different office.

And why eloping? For us, it was a way to have an intimate and peaceful wedding before the big one back in Mexico with all our family and friends. Our marriage, our rules. It was a way to make a quick trip and just enjoy ourselves. And why New York? because this city has it all and for all budgets and tastes. If you like nightlife, or you are a foodie, what about Broadway? if you want to catch a musical or even if you are a sports fan? Shopping, fashion? Yes, the Big Apple has it all!

So if you are thinking about eloping, renewing vows, getting married, or just getting away from the routine, New York is always a good idea. Can’t wait to go back there!!!