Eloping has become a popular choice for couples seeking an intimate, meaningful wedding experience without the stress and expense of a traditional ceremony. And we highly recommend all our couples consider taking an elopement route before spending thousands of dollars on a wedding they may have regrets for. Central Park, with its lush landscapes, iconic landmarks, and romantic ambiance, offers the perfect places for that dream elopement you may be considering. Nestled right in the heart of New York City, this sweet little oasis provides a variety of spots for couples to exchange vows. We love NYC and are so thrilled to be able to travel for our job and watch the cutest couples get married in this iconic city!
Central Park Elopement
Alise and Ian live in Brooklyn and wanted the full city-themed immersion for their elopement. They had the most adorable NYC skyline wedding invitations and chose to exchange vows underneath the Bethesda Terrace. If you've ever been, you know the charm. This was our first time visiting the Terrace, and I just completely fell head over heels. It's the perfect spot to wed your partner and it makes for GREAT photos (you know that's important!).
Permits and Regulations
While eloping in Central Park is relatively straightforward, it’s important to secure the necessary permits, especially if you're planning a larger gathering or a specific location that requires one. The Central Park Conservancy provides information on permits and regulations, ensuring your ceremony goes smoothly without any unexpected disruptions. It's better to be safe rather than be sorry and be interrupted in the middle of exchanging vows!
Choosing the Perfect Spot
With so many beautiful locations to choose from, deciding where to elope in Central Park can be a delightful challenge. Some popular spots include:
- Bow Bridge: Known for its elegant design and romantic views.
- Bethesda Terrace and Fountain: A grand and iconic location with intricate details. This is what Alise and Ian went with, and it truly is a wonderful option.
- Shakespeare Garden: A whimsical garden with lovely floral displays.
- Ladies Pavilion: A charming Victorian-style pavilion overlooking the lake.
- Conservatory Garden: A formal garden with stunning seasonal flowers.
How To Manage The Crowds
A popular question we get for public weddings and elopements is, how do we deal with the large amount of people? For starters, it's best to accept it and embrace it. Especially in a place like Central Park, there is never an option that will be people-free. And that's actually okay! I say it's all part of the vibe and makes the photos feel authentic.
In my experience, people tend to stay out of the way when they notice a camera and a bride. They will respectfully step out of the way and send a congratulations as they do. I wouldn't worry about the crowds, personally. Make the best of it!
Planning a Central Park Elopement?
