The Beauty of a City Hall Elopement in New York City

I just love a city hall elopement in New York City because the ceremony itself takes up such a small portion of the day, leaving you with an enormous amount of time to spend doing whatever you want. And what Heather and Zach wanted was a walking tour of their relationship through the years.

Starting in Brooklyn: Home Sweet Home

I met Heather and Zach at their apartment in Brooklyn where they live together with their dog Buddy and soon, a brand new baby. They spend a lot of time in their Brooklyn neighborhood and are definitely locals about town. We stopped in at several spots where they’re known by name: the butcher, the pizza joint, the neighbors’ apartment. So many members of their community had asked them to stop by on their way to the courthouse, and so we marched around town like a little personal-sized parade. Just before grabbing the subway to City Hall, we stopped for a slice of pizza at a beloved local spot, Table 87, where— you guessed it—they’re known by name. Capturing these Brooklyn engagement photos in their favorite local spots was a blast.

The Manhattan City Hall Ceremony

As soon as we popped up above ground in Manhattan, we spotted their families who greeted us with cameras, hugs, and treats for Buddy. You can finally have guests at your city hall ceremony again, so the whole family came in, except a few people who stayed outside with Buddy. The ceremony was short and sweet, and in no time, we were back outside and ready for Act II. As a Manhattan wedding photographer, it’s always heartwarming to see families come together for such special moments.

Strolling Down Memory Lane in Chinatown

When Heather and Zach met, Zach lived in Chinatown, and of course, they were locals at many spots. We had to stop in at all of them! We wove in and out of alleys, down side streets, and into fish markets. Eventually, we found our way to dumplings from a spot that Heather and Zach had frequented years prior. It was like hopping back in time for a day, and to go along with them for that was so special to me. Taking wedding photos of these unique Chinatown memories was an incredible experience.

Celebratory Dinner at Kiki’s in the Lower East Side

After finishing up their own version of a cocktail hour, we made our way to meet everyone else for dinner at Kiki’s in the Lower East Side. Everyone smushed into a table slightly too small to fit the group, which created the warmth that can only be provided by the people you love fitting snugly next to you. Champagne was popped, cake was cut, food was eaten, stories were shared, memories recalled, plates passed, seconds heaped, hugs and kisses exchanged, goodbyes, and I love you’s. It’s another point for city hall elopements in NYC, especially with such a perfect ending at Kiki’s.

Booking Your New York City Elopement

Heather and Zach’s city hall elopement in New York City was a beautiful journey through some of the most iconic neighborhoods. From a morning in Brooklyn spent strolling through local spots to an intimate city hall ceremony in Manhattan, and a nostalgic trip through Chinatown, every moment was filled with love and joy. If you’re considering a unique wedding in NYC, think about the treasures hidden in your own story and the special places that mean the world to you. As an NYC elopement photographer, it’s a privilege to capture these unforgettable moments. Also, check out my Pinterest profile for more inspiration and follow me on Instagram!