New York City is always full of surprises, but having a TV show force a last minute ceremony site change is quite shocking! When M&D are unable to get a Friday appointment at the Manhattan Marriage Bureau, they opt for a ceremony in City Hall Park. (This is good thing, since only one witness is allowed due to covid restrictions and both of their mothers were attending.) The small triangular park surrounds New York City Hall and the New York Civic Center. It features a fountain dating back to 1842 and is a lovely place to take photos.
When we arrive, crew are restricting the park for filming of the CBS legal drama, Bull. They inform me they are going to be leaving soon. There are some great locations nearby where we can take photos in the meantime, including the vintage City Hall subway station and the Brooklyn Bridge. When the filming continues too long, I suggested we move the ceremony to Pier 17 near South Street Seaport. Luckily, it all works out with a beautiful location overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge.
NYC Marriage Bureau Appointment
Getting an appointment at the New York Marriage Bureaus is no longer so difficult. (see here for info) Ceremonies allow 4 adult witness and some children under 12 in 2024. If you want more guests, couples can opt for an officiant instead. I offer officiating as a back-up to the Marriage Bureau or even just a license signing. (I’m an officiant registered with NYC and my assistant can take additional ceremony photos so everything is covered.) That is exactly what happened for this elopement.
Following the ceremony, we take a car over to Battery Park to get the vintage pick-up truck. After a few photos, they were off to CT for a party with family and friends.
Hair and Makeup – Lemondy NYC Instagram: @lemondynyc
Dress – Rime Arodsky Instagram: @rimearodsky
Tux & Shoes – Suit Supply Instagram: @suitsupply
Flowers: White calla lillies
