An all-day elopement in NYC with photographer Kristy May offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourselves in the city’s vibrant energy, from intimate vows in Central Park to sunset photos in Brooklyn Bridge Park. You’ll have time to explore iconic spots, hidden gems, and capture every special moment of your love story.
For those seeking a simpler option, a City Hall ceremony paired with stunning portraits around the city is a beautiful alternative—offering the same personalized experience with a more streamlined approach.
Either way, your NYC elopement will be an unforgettable adventure, filled with timeless memories and breathtaking photos.
I know how daunting it can seem to plan an NYC elopement. So many options, where to even begin?
Having photographed over 300 elopements in New York City, I help couples narrow down all the choices.
Be excited, not overwhelmed.
At your wedding, I'll "take the wheel" and guide the day so you can just relax and enjoy!
About Kristy
Last wedding of 2024, snow at Top of the Rock!
Eloping in NYC is always a great idea, but it can be challenging given the size and complexities of the city. (Even if you are a local!)
In planning an elopement, you'll have to take things like permits, large events, and traffic into account. Maybe you need an apostille? And that doesn't include narrowing down all the beautiful locations, hotels and restaurant options.
Where does one start and not get overwhelmed? It can be tempting to hire a company offering an all inclusive package, but you don't get to pick your flowers, photographer or officiant. (Hint, you're in the right place to find your perfect unique New York elopement package.)
Consult with an NYC elopement expert
The timeline is designed around YOUR interests and favorite places, be it Per Se or a local pizza joint. Options from 2 hours to all day so nothing is missed.
Recommendations of vendors and photos locations that suit your dream day
Be present and enjoy the day knowing you have a guide who know the legalities of getting married and the streets of NYC.
"Kristy helped streamline our path through the park and locations afterwards to make the most of every moment, and offered suggestions to enhance our shoot with her extensive wedding photography experience"
- jenny & sparky
We set-up a free video or audio chat and you share your dreams and ideas for your elopement or intimate wedding. It is totally fine if you are just beginning the process. If you don't see an elopement package that fits, we can build a custom one.
If you want the best New York elopement, you need a plan!
Once we are officially working together, we will start designing your plan. I will suggest vetted vendors (beauty, florals, officiants and more) or connect you with my partners to work on your travel plans or styling.
My assistant and I will be there to guide and celebrate with you through out the day. Your sneak peeks will be delivered withint 24-48 hours so you can share!
We will work together to develop your timeline. Give me one or more "must do" locations, answer some questions about your interests and we'll get the plan going. No worries if you have no idea where to start!
I know wedding vendors from beauty to vintage taxis, and even vow assistance. Based on your timeline, I can recommend hotels and restaurants, or connect you with my travel specialist for full planning.
Through out the day, we will take video clips and record your ceremony on an iPhone if you desire. The clips will be available in your final gallery. This is a fun way to share more of the experience with others.
While elopements can ease the stress of getting married, these days still bring challenges. My #1 goal is you having a great time. We are at your service be it running an errand, zipping a dress or adjusting the timeline.
I offer a free album and print consult to explore options like fine art prints, albums, and retouching. My goal is to ensure your images are cherished, not left on your computer or hidden behind concerns about retouching.
An extra set of hands is invaluable during your elopement or wedding. My assistants help with gear, run errands, hold spots in line, and take care of anything you need. After dark, they manage lighting so we can work quickly and create stunning, seamless shots.
*except for Mini Collection
Pricing for my elopement packages ranges from $2,400 to $8,400. Each package includes an officiant or witness, a photographer, and planning assistance. Coverage time varies from 2 to 10 hours, and custom packages are also available.
Starting at $7,200 for 8-hours and $8,400 for 10 hours or multi-day experiences. No additional fees.
collection Includes the above:
This full day collection offers the ultimate flexibility for your elopement or intimate wedding. We can visit multiple locations, do fun activities and explore. Or, you can include a reception or dinner with your most favorite people the day after your elopement. If you have more than 20 guests, a custom quote should be requested.
Starting at $4,800 for 5-hours. No additional fees.
collection Includes the above:
This half day collection offers flexibility for your elopement or intimate wedding. We can visit multiple locations, include getting ready, do fun activities and explore. Or, you can include a reception or dinner with your most favorite people. If you have more than 20 guests, a custom quote should be requested.
Starting at $3,200 for 3-hours. No additional fees.
collection Includes the above:
This option allows for more time for portraits or more locations. Ideal for getting ready coverage plus Central Park or City Hall and Central Park.
Starting at $2,400 for 2-hours. No additional fees. Weekday coverage only.
collection Includes the above:
Ideal for couples wanting ceremony coverage at City Hall and nearby locations, or just in Central Park. This collection is perfect for couples wanting ceremony coverage and a brief portrait session. Also great for wedding portraits (no ceremony) and vow renewals.
Perhaps your unique plans don’t fit into my usual collections? No problem! I want to hear more about what you are planning to do, locations, guest count and I can make a custom option for you. Please note, my minimum collection is up 2 hours.
As a former photojournalist, I believe in going early and staying late to get the best photos, allowing for more authentic, candid moments as you get comfortable in front of the camera.
With extra time, we can cover more guests, locations and activities, ensuring every detail of your day is beautifully captured.
I always have a plan B if we need to make weather adjustments. Even the day before, it can be difficult to gage what will happen so we just prepare for anything. No matter what, we will still have fun and will embrace what mother nature gives us.
Almost every couple shares this worry! I’ve found that allowing enough time and offering tailored directions helps. I only work with real couples, so the photos on my site are couples just like you. Feeling confident in your attire, hair, and makeup can also make a big difference.
I’ll send you a formal booking proposal outlining the contract details. Once signed, you'll receive an online request for the 50% retainer, which can be paid via bank transfer, credit card, or U.S. check.
“We are absolutely thrilled with these photos! Even with the gloomy weather that day, they turned out far better than we ever imagined.”
- C&D
Additional info
What are THE top 3 things you care about most for your elopement experience?
Will you have guests? how many?
WHERE DO YOU LIVE?
WHERE DO YOU WANT TO marry?*
Type of event?* (Wedding, Elopement, Vow Renewal)
Date or approximate Date (MM/DD/YYYY format only)*
PHONE NUMBER*
Email*
Last Name*
First Name*
* Required
Typical response time is
24-48 hours.
This free guide tells you everything you need to legally marry in NYC, from vendor recommendations to photo locations and much more. The guide is always being updated, so you'll have the best info.