non-traditional • authentic • connection focused
What is an elopement?
Elopements are no longer a clandestine, run off in secret endeavor. In fact, elopements have evolved over the last several decades into a celebration that is parsed down from traditional weddings. This does not mean an elopement is any less significant versus a traditional wedding. I'd actually argue that it actually means that you're looking to infuse your union with more intention and meaning.
If you're here, you're likely on the fence about eloping (or you've already decided!). There's just something that draws you to the idea of designing your wedding day to be focused on you and your partner. You're not interested in hosting or entertaining 100+ guests, extended family that you haven't talked to in years, or footing the bill for an exorbitant event that very well may leave you feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, and exhausted.
This guide has been designed to help you decide if eloping in New York is the right next step for your love story.
Elope in New york
There's just something magical about New York. From bustling city life, to snow-capped mountains, to quaint lakeside villages. It's the kind of place that begs to be explored at a slower pace so you can take everything in: the sights, the sounds, the smells, and most of all the emotions you experience.
New York is truly diverse when it comes to landscapes and things to do. Want a woodsy, quiet weekend getaway in the Adirondacks? Or how about a weekend staying a top the 47th floor with amazing views of the city skyline along the Hudson?
New York has a wild, raw, and real energy that you can feel no matter where you are across its landscapes. I believe that's why couples choose to travel here for their elopement. There's just something about New York that you'll inevitably be drawn to.
Filled with history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity
eloping in New York is bound to be an authentic experience.
New York is home to the largest park in the contiguous US. with over 6 million acres, stunning mountains, 3,000 lakes, and 30,000 miles of rivers and streams you're bound to find yourself lost in nature here.
I've spent years scouting some of the most amazing places that will be perfect for you. From easy-to-reach views to hours on end hikes, I'm bound to know a spot for everyone.
Come, run wild and free barefoot along the shores of Lake Ontario, wander the botanic gardens at Cornell, or strap on your hiking boots and summit Mount Jo.
No matter the season, New York is absolutely stunning year round. While winters can be "rough" if you're not a fan of snow, winter can be an absolute dream for the right couple.
Be ready to embrace whatever Mother Nature sends our way, because no matter what your elopement day will be gorgeous!
Here are a few more resources for you:
+ Why Rainy Days Are Better
+ How to Prep for Rain (or Snow) on Your Elopement
Steeped in history and diverse cultural influence, New York has some hidden gems like giant castles, quaint river villages, cobblestone streets, and centuries old bed and breakfasts. You'll also have the option of amazing cuisine no matter where in the state you decide to get married.
If history is your thing, there are so many historical sights for any bucket list.
If nature is your thing, New York has you covered in spades, friend.
No matter your beliefs, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, or race, you'll find New York a welcoming place to marry. All you'll need is your marriage license, an officiant (like yours truly), and two witnesses to make it legal.
I'll help you navigate the process should you need, and I can either serve as your officiant/celebrant or as a witness, too!
When you're with me, you're in a safe space. All love stories are welcome here.
Why You Should Elope In New York
Let your imagination
RUN WILD
and create a once-in-a-lifetime
EXPERIENCE
Spring (Late March - Late May)
When to elope truly comes down to your personal preference and circumstance. In New York, there's no "right" time of year to elope. That's because New York experiences all four seasons, some a little longer than others depending on where in the state you're thinking of visiting. Are you a summer-lover? A spring flirt? Or do you prefer a moody autumn day? Even the winters here are absolutely stunning, so don't immediately nix the idea of a winter elopement!
Each season has it's draws and fallbacks, but one thing is guaranteed: No matter the time of year, it will be beautiful.
When to elope in New York
Summer (June - Mid September)
Autumn (Late September - Late October)
Winter (November - Late March)
In the early spring, you can still find snow-covered areas in Upstate and Northern New York. But in the southern regions at the same time, you'll find blooming cherry blossoms, apple blossoms, gardens, and fields of wildflowers. The weather can be capricious, changing in the blink of an eye. So always make sure to be fully prepared for snow when adventuring outdoors during these months.
In the north country, our summers are short, but breathtaking all the same. You'll have longer daylight hours, with sunset happening between 915p and 935pm typically. Everything will be a lush green and the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes regions full of thriving vineyards. Hiking trails are significantly more popular during the summer months, so take this into account for your own celebration day.
It goes without saying that the Adirondacks during the autumn months are a breathtaking view. The old mountains turn from lush greens to fiery reds, yellows, oranges, and ambers. While summer is popular, autumn is even more popular as travelers from all over the world come to embark on the scenic drives that the ADK has to offer. Temperatures start to cool and nights begin to lengthen.
Winter is one of my favorite times of the year to photograph love stories. Why? Because everything becomes blanketed in a few (sometimes a few dozen) inches of snow. It muffles all the sounds, the air is crisp, and it just feels ethereal. Don't discount a potential winter elopement if you're looking for something that is slower paced and still beautiful.
Ready to start your own adventure?
Northern New York
Even though elopements may have less planning versus traditional weddings, it doesn't mean that they're planning free. Deciding where to elope may be one of the hardest parts of dreaming up your elopement day adventure. My general advice: don't settle. Find a place that genuinely speaks to your soul, that you love, and can envision enjoying with your partner.
This is the part of the process where having a local photographer in your corner can make all the difference. I am more than happy to help you with location scouting, and logistics planning. I'll help you find a few locations that fit the vision you have in mind. Here are a few suggestions
Where to elope in New York
Southern New York
Eastern New York
Western New York
+ Boldt Castle
+ Salmon River Falls
+ Lake Ontario (if you want sunset over the water)
+ Clayton
+ Green Lakes State Park
+ Catskill Mountains
+ NYC
+ Bear Mountain State Park
+ Russell Brook Falls
+ Kaaterskill Falls
+ The Adirondacks
+ Keene Valley
+ Lake Placid
+ Saratoga Springs
+ Mirror Lake
+ Taughannock Falls
+ Letchworth State Park
+ Niagara Falls
+ Chimney Bluffs State Park
+ Lake Ontario (if you want sunrise over the water)
Ready to chat? Let's go!
anyone. you. want.
Who do you bring with you?
If your elopement day dreams means bringing a few close friends and family along, that doesn't make it a non-elopement. It doesn't have to be just you and your beau if that's not what you want. A lot of the time it is just me and the couple because that's what they envisioned for their elopement day. But there are times where couples want to have a few important people with them through the whole day, or only during certain points of the day.
Either way, what you want is what goes. It's an elopement all the same, friend.
Yes, New York requires you to get a marriage license in person (the both of you have to be there together when applying) before eloping. AND you have to wait at least 24 hours after obtaining the license before you can legally marry. Also note that the license is only valid for 60 days. When people ask about how to elope, this is primarily where they have questions. I can help you navigate this process if you'd like.
Also, don’t apply for a license too early on in your planning process or it will no longer be valid on your chosen date. Obtaining a license in New York will cost you about $40 (which you pay at the time of application), and the fee includes the marriage certificate you get once the elopement has taken place and all necessary parties have signed.
On your wedding day, you will need a registered officiant (like ya girl here!), and two witnesses to sign the license before you mail it in. Your officiant can be a friend that was ordained online, or someone that you've hired specifically.
If you're unable to visit a City/Town/Village Clerk before your wedding day to get the license, you will not be able to make your marriage legal in New York State. But if you're okay with not making it legal on that specific day, you have other options.
You can opt to legalize your marriage prior to your New York Elopement date. Or, you can make it legal upon your return home. Alternatively, you don't have to make it legal at all if you don't wish to. You can absolutely have a symbolic ceremony.
Making it legal
Interested in my services? Let's chat.
One of the wonderful things about opting for an elopement is that there isn't a hard-fast rule to what wedding vendors you have to hire. Honestly, there aren't any hard fast rules about anything when you choose to elope.
What matters most is that you and your partner build the kind of wedding day experience that you both will love and be able to be fully present for.
But if you need help finding vendors that you want to include in your elopement day, I have a network of hand-picked creatives who can absolutely help bring your vision to life.
Finding the Right Vendors
Elopement Packages + Info
Contact me
