Planning Your Boston Wedding and City Hall Elopement
Getting married at Boston City Hall? This expert-written guide explains how to plan your Boston City Hall elopement, from understanding the booking process through what to expect the day-of. Packed with helpful tips, you’ll be able to plan the City Hall wedding of your dreams. This guide is the best, most comprehensive Boston City Hall planning resource!
Planning a Civil Ceremony at Boston City Hall
This is also known as the commitment ceremony. It’s the most cost-efficient and simplest way to get married. The way to book your ceremony slot is to visit the Boston City Hall website. I should note that the marriage license is only valid for 60 days from the day you apply.
What to Expect When Applying
If you apply in person, then you need to bring your government-issued ID and also $50 (as of the writing of this blog post). This is your license fee. I’ve often seen the office only take cash even though they say they take credit cards. I’m not sure if it’s because the machines are down, or whatnot, but it’s best to bring cash or a check. There are ATMs on-site as well if you don’t bring cash. Your marriage license will be issued and put in the mail three days later.
To apply, you need to fill out your pre-intention form with the following information:
- your legal names, and what last name you will use after marriage
- where you both live now
- your dates of birth and where you were born
- the names of your parents, including maiden names, and whether or not your parents were married when you were born
- if you were previously married, we will need to know how many times, and the date you were divorced or see your annulment papers.
Ceremony Logistics
Wedding ceremonies at City Hall can be scheduled in Room 601 or Floor 2 on Mondays, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Tuesdays, 10a.m.-11:15a.m., 2p.m.-3:15p.m., Thursdays, 10a.m.-11:15a.m., 2p.m.-3:15p.m. and Fridays, 10 – 10a.m.-11:15a.m., 2p.m.-3:15p.m. An officiant is provided by the City. Civil ceremonies usually occur in an office on the 6th floor, or hallway in the basement. However, your officiant will have the final say. You are often allowed to say your own vows during this time. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early. You should also expect that your ceremony may not start on time.
Premier Boston Wedding Venues
The Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library is hands-down one of my favorite Boston wedding venues. If you are looking for a venue rich in history and packed with stunning architectural details, you’ll definitely want to tour the BPL. The building’s classic architecture is what I love the most about the venue. It allows for a classic, elegant and luxury wedding vibe! Wedding packages at the BPL range from $8,700 – $21,500. They offer several different options for ceremony, cocktail hour, and dinner locations within the building. This includes the stunning courtyard and the famous Bates Hall with bookshelf-lined walls and the classic green lanterns on desks that double as dining tables.
Boston Park Plaza
Another incredible option is the Boston Park Plaza. This setup is perfect for a small wedding or elopement. You can enjoy wedding portraits in the Boston Public Garden and go on to dinner in a private dining room at Strip by Strega.
Popular Places for Wedding Photos in Boston
A part of planning every Boston wedding is deciding where you should take your wedding photos. Selecting a convenient location will eliminate the possibility of the stress of driving around, getting stuck in traffic, and giving you more time with your guest. Use this shortlist to pick the right feel, then keep travel light.
| Location | Vibe | Best Time | Permits? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Public Library (BPL) | Beaux-Arts, grand | Late afternoon shade | Interior use: confirm |
| Public Garden (Lagoon) | Green, scenic | Late afternoon | City park: confirm | Leafy, classic | Any / holiday nights | No formal use typically |
| Fan Pier / Harborwalk | Skyline / water | Golden hour | Some areas private |
Ways to Make Your Ceremony Special
Personal vows: Personal vows are my favourite way of making your ceremony your own. It’s a time to express how you feel about your partner and to make lifelong promises. You can also purchase little vow books instead of using your phone.
Florals: Some couples like to add colour to their day by adding a bouquet or boutonniere. It’s a beautiful way to inject your style into your ceremony.
Hair and Makeup: For a polished look, many brides may opt for professional hair and makeup. The atmosphere buzzed with laughter and anticipation as a talented glam team worked their magic, ensuring every bride and bridesmaid looked their most stylish.