Should we elope or throw that big NYC wedding?
Large weddings vs. intimate weddings vs. elopements have been a long-standing conversation piece in the photography space, and while I think the decision is very personal to every couple wants, needs and financial situation, I do think there are a few details to consider if a New York City elopement keeps coming to mind.
…You feel energetically tied to New York City
Whether you are NYC born and raised or a transplant currently calling this city your home, you recognize the indescribable pull this place has, and you can’t imagine your wedding not including such a large piece of your story together.
…You don’t mind the real, raw human moments that make New York City the place it is
If we are exploring Lower Manhattan after you exchanged vows at City Hall (technically the Office of the City Clerk; most popular being Manhattan Marriage Bureau, 141 Worth St, New York, NY 10007), then hopping on the J train to Bushwick, you already know there will be a lot of people in the background of your photos. Tourists and locals. Existing, living their lives because to them, it’s just another Thursday. You would expect nothing less, and even find it an endearing part of your newest core memory: Eloping in New York City.
…You watched your wedding budget slowly climb to the $50,000 – $100,000 range and you’re not even halfway done interviewing vendors or finalizing the guest list
Easily $100k. That’s maybe even on the lower end to be honest? And that’s okay! As a New York City Wedding + Elopement Photographer, luxury weddings have been my specialty for 10 years, but I don’t think it’s something every engaged couple in NYC should stretch themselves to make happen. If the wedding budget is starting to stress you out…consider a City Hall Elopement, lowered cortisol, and throwing a party later.
Approximately $70 in fees and while there are some limitations (time allotted, personal vows, guest count etc) overall, you’re saving what could be a down payment on a house or another long-term investment to start your marriage with so it’s something to deeply consider. Alina Defino has shared a lot of great tips on planning your City Hall Elopement here.
Alternatively, and one of my personal favorite ideas, just ask your best friend to get their officiant license, and exchange personal vows in Central Park (or a more niche spot) with us as your witnesses!
…You want a gallery of digital and film photos that scream timeless New York nostalgia
I don’t know about you, but I can’t think of New York without thinking 1) nostalgic film photos from the 90s and 2) people-watching, and the more observational scene the city allows. Your dream wedding gallery? Includes a little of each on digital, 35mm film and 120 film. A simple and stress-free ceremony. No performance involved, no outside opinions to worry about. Followed by two of you running around the city (with me), not taking life too seriously. A stroll through Central Park could be in order, maybe grabbing a quick bite at the ramen place in Harlem where you had your first date, steal a moment on the stoop of a Brownstone on 5th Ave in Manhattan because no one ever really gets mad at a newly married couple. Few iconic, bridge photos as one does, then an ice cream night cap to your favorite late night spot in Brooklyn.
Most of your photos will feel a little like whimsy meets the reality of love in a big city. Several will look like they were pulled directly from the pages of Vogue (because duh you’re both hot and cool never forget that). A mish-mosh, hodge-podge of moments on digital and film, with the biggest takeaway of all of this being that you both get to remember every sweet, intimate REAL detail of that day because it was truly just about the both of you being in love to the point of this type of dedication. And really, that’s all a wedding should be about anyway, right?
Anyways! If this resonates and an NYC elopement or couples session sounds like a good time to you, reach out here! I will be in Brooklyn / Boston all of July 2026 and maybe / likely moving to the East Coast this Fall for any 2027 inquiries. Rates are custom. Love ya, talk soon.
Asia Wright Photo | New York City Wedding + Elopement Photographer
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