How Much Does It Cost to Elope in NYC?

Spoiler: Eloping in New York City isn’t free. But it also doesn’t have to come with sticker shock.

The beauty of an NYC elopement is that you can keep it small, intentional, and affordable — without giving up good photos, good vibes, or a real sense of occasion. Whether you're going full DIY or working with a company like Cakewalk, here's what you can expect to spend.

🧾 What You Get with Cakewalk

A Cakewalk wedding is $3,000 and includes everything you need — and nothing you don’t.

Here’s what’s built in:

• A licensed, kind, non-cheesy officiant

• A local photographer who shoots like it’s editorial, not prom

• One hour of planning, coordination, and ceremony magic

• Permit guidance or guerilla location strategy

• Full ceremony design (even if it’s super simple)

• Support with marriage license and logistics

We’re not here to upsell you on centerpieces or brunch reservations. We just make sure your one-hour ceremony feels intentional, smooth, and photogenic.

🍾 What’s Not Included?

The stuff you might want to layer in — like florals, champagne, extra photography time, or a private dinner — is up to you. We’ll offer guidance and options, but the base price keeps things tight and transparent.

💡 The Bottom Line

A totally DIY elopement in NYC might cost you $1,000–$2,000+ once you hire a photographer, an officiant, figure out permits, coordinate guests, and sort out timing.

A full-scale wedding in NYC? Upwards of $50,000.

A Cakewalk ceremony gives you all the impact of a wedding (minus the chaos), for $3,000–$3,500 flat.

You don’t need ten vendors. You don’t need to “plan.” You just need an hour that feels like you, in a city you love.

Let us handle the rest. Hit us up!