Getting Married in NYC: Officiant FAQs

Prior to getting married in New York, you must obtain a marriage license from your local County Clerk. Here is the information you need to obtain your marriage license.

Marriage License Application

Both partners must appear together in person to apply for the marriage license.
In NYC, apply online through Project Cupid, the City Clerk's official system.
Your license is valid for 24 hours to 60 days after issue.
Link to NYC MARRIAGE BUREAU - CITY CLERK

FAQ's

How much does a wedding officiant ceremony cost?

Elopements start at $350, and ceremonies start at $450.

Do I need an officiant for a courthouse wedding?

The City Clerk handles the legal ceremony at the NYC Marriage Bureau, so an outside officiant isn't required there. Many couples still hire me for a courthouse-style ceremony held separately, for a more personal moment with family or friends - starting at $200.

Can you perform ceremonies outside Manhattan?

Yes! While I'm based in Manhattan, I officiate weddings and elopements throughout all five boroughs - Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island - as well as the greater New York City area. I've also traveled for ceremonies in the Hudson Valley and other nearby destinations. If your venue is outside NYC, just reach out and let me know the location - I'm happy to travel for the right celebration.

How do we get a marriage license if we're not NYC/NY residents?

The same way local couples do - New York doesn't require residency. Just apply together in person (or via Project Cupid for NYC) with valid photo ID, and you'll receive your license right away.

Can international or out-of-state couples get married in NYC?

Yes! There's no residency or citizenship requirement to marry in New York. Out-of-state and international couples can apply for a license and get married here just like NYC residents.

Do we need a witness for our ceremony?

Yes - New York requires at least one witness, 18 or older, to be present and sign your marriage license. If you're eloping a witness, let me know and I'll help you plan around it.

Who submits the signed marriage license after our ceremony?

I do - after the ceremony, I sign the license along with your witness and submit it to the proper Clerk's office - no paperwork left for you to handle!