A Destination Wedding in New York City

A destination wedding in New York City is a magical event. What better place to get married than one of the most romantic, most fun, and most unique cities in the world? Especially now that NYC has legalized gay marriage, couples of all genders and sexualities are planning destination weddings in New York City. Do you need more convincing than that?

Top 5 Reasons to Have a Destination Wedding in NYC

1. You can have the best of everything. Whatever your vision is, it can happen thanks to the legions of set and lighting designers, musicians, and performers who live here, along with incredible selections of imported and local flowers, products, and materials.
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3. Your guests will love coming here. The city is happening 24 hours a day, with so much to do before and after your wedding.



4. Take incredible pre- and post-ceremony photos in front of international landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, the Central Park Fountain, and NYC taxi cabs.



5. Have an awesome bachelor/bachelorette party or afterparty at one of the hottest clubs in the world. Or go a different direction and have an only-in-New York moment at an iconic pizzeria.



6. It's a classic. If you're eloping, get hitched at City Hall, followed by a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for a reception at a DUMBO restaurant. Or, spend $25 to get a permit for a wedding at Central Park, then have a lavish reception at the Boat House.

Getting Started

First, you need to figure out what kind of ceremony and reception you want to have, and how big your budget is. NYC is famously expensive, and weddings are no exception. Expect to pay 20%-50% more for most items, especially venues and spaces. It is possible to do things inexpensively, but it's harder to find the deals from far away.

Then it's time to look for inspiration. Check out the Top 10 Places to Get Married in New York City, as well as New York Magazine's guide and Style Me Pretty for some eye candy. If you're sticking to hip Brooklyn, be sure to look at Brooklyn Bride.

You might also want to hire a wedding planner to help you with event design and out-of-town logistics. As you look for inspiration, pay special attention to favorite weddings who have named their event coordinators. It's important that you and your planner have similar senses of aesthetics and taste, and that they are organized and friendly. You can also consult NY Mag's list.

Logistics for a Destination Wedding in New York

If you're getting legally married, you'll need a money order and proof of age to get a marriage license. You'll also need an officiant and a witness for the ceremony. See the full details. Some things to consider

• Hotel Room Prices
  Even I can admit that hotel room prices here are astronomical. Your guests might have trouble finding affordable places to stay so be sure to help them out. Both our GoNYC and Budget Travel sites have recommendations.
  
  
• Transportation
  Most New Yorkers don't own cars since driving and parking are less convenient than taking the subway. As out-of-towners, look for a ceremony venue, a reception location, and a hotel in close proximity. Or, consider hiring a party bus or trolley to make things easier.
  
  
• The Weather
  Summers in New York can be sweltering, and winter often brings large snowstorms. But spring and summer here are magnificent, especially for Central Park Weddings.

Having a destination wedding in New York City is an amazing experience. You'll have incredible photos and even more incredible memories.