I created a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process of getting married in Boston
How to elope in Boston
Get a Marriage License
First things first - You need a marriage license! You can get one at your local city hall in Massachusetts. It does not need to be from the city you are getting married in. You both need to apply for the license together and in person. You will need to bring your ID as well as cash for the license fee (prices can range from $20-50). The license will be ready to be pick up three days after applying. Your license will be good for 60 days after applying
2. Schedule your appointment at Boston City Hall
Ceremony appointments are made by phone call. You can the City Hall on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. The ceremony cost $75 cash, to be paid on the day of. For more information on schedule your ceremony, you can visit the Boston City Hall Website.
3. Hire your Favorite Boston Photographer & Vendors
Now that you have a date and time set up, It’s time to hire your photographer! I have 5 years of experience photographing couples around Boston. I know all the popular spots as well as the hidden gems. I can help you plan your day to not only get the best photos but also create memories as newly weds. We can customize our time together, be intentional, and focus on what is most important to you. You will find the packages I offer at the end of the page, as well as some of my favorite Boston Elopement galleries. To complement your perfect day, book Jessica for your hair + make up and get your flowers with Sun-kissed Stems.
4. Get Ready - It’s ceremony time!
Don’t forget to bring your marriage license! I suggest you arrive at least 15 minutes before your ceremony to get all your paperwork squared away. The City Hall does have very strict rules about timing, so if you are planning on driving to your ceremony, or your scheduled time is around rush hour, I suggest giving yourself some buffer time. After all your paperwork is all set, it’s time to get married!
5. You're officially Married. Now what?
Y’all did it! Now it’s time to celebrate and get some amazing portraits! I know a lot of hidden gems around the city hall area if you want to stay low key or we can go to to one or multiple amazing neighborhoods and have fun. You can bring a bottle of bubbly to pop, or get a drink in a place that you like, a coffee, pizza, pastries. You can do anything that you want! The goal here is do things that are special for you both.
Don’t want a City Hall Ceremony? No problem! Here is a list of alternative ceremony spots in Boston
Boston Public Library
The BPL offers 1h elopement packages for your ceremony. It’s $200 for the hour and you have to bring your officiate. They will have the Guastavino Room set up for you and up to 8 guests. More information on how to apply and guidelines, you can access the Boston Public Library Official Website.
Public Garden
You can get married at the Public Garden between the months of April and November. You will need to apply for a permit to elope at the garden and pay $50 if you are a Boston resident and $100 for non residents. Click here for more information on how to get your permit.
Arnold Arboretum
The arboretum is one of the most gorgeous parks in Boston and it’s totally FREE to have your ceremony here (but any donations are welcome). you are allowed to have up to 40 guests. Just keep in mind you need to be respectful of others enjoying their day at the park. The organization don’t take reservations, it’s first come first serve. More information, click here
