Big congrats! You found your forever and the Boston City Hall felt so right to lock it in. Plus this city holds so much historic charm and the best New England chowda you’ll ever have. Here is your ultimate guide at getting married at the Boston City Hall located at 1 City Hall Square! Information sourced from Boston.gov.

Important notes before you get eloped!

• Your Massachusetts marriage license can ONLY get you married in Massachusetts
• Your marriage license has a 3-day grace period – If you plan to get married before then, you must receive a “Marriage Without Delay Waiver” from the court
• Massachusetts marriage licenses are active for 60 days
• City hall is closed weekends, holidays and Wednesdays

8 Steps to Getting Married at the Boston City Hall

1. Apply and schedule your marriage license appointment here.
2. You’ll receive an email to fill out your marriage license form
3. Both parties have to attend the marriage license appointment – Bring your ID’s and $50 license fee (bring cash!)
4. Once completed, you’ll receive your marriage license that day
5. Schedule your ceremony, you have two options:
   • 1. Registry Department (most popular!)
   • 2. City Clerk’s Office
6. Show up to your ceremony time 15 minutes before your appointment ($25 late fee)
7. Wedding ceremonies cost $75, they ONLY accept cash.
8. Get married! Woohoo!

What to Bring to your Ceremony

• Your active marriage license within 3 – 60 days of issuing
• Government IDs
• Cash payment
• Family and friends!
• Comfy shoes

Where to Park

Quick tip! Instead of having to walk double the amount, park closer to the final location of your photoshoot.

Parking garages closest to city hall:

• LAZ Parking – 28 State Street
• Parking Quincy Market – 60 State Street
• 75 State Street – 5 Broad Street

Using Public Transit

• Get off at State Street (Orange/Blue Line) and City Hall is only a quick walk over, just a block

Book Your Photographer

Finding the right photographer takes time. To keep your day running smoothly, it helps to choose someone who knows the area and understands how City Hall marriages work. Local experience matters not just for the iconic spots, but for the quieter, off the beaten path locations you might not even know exist.

As a Boston native, Natasha is deeply familiar with the city and how close or far different locations truly are. Looking for a cozy coffee shop to warm up? Easy. Want a pocket of greenery with a city skyline backdrop? Consider it handled. Check out Natasha’s website to learn more, and Natasha would be excited to hear your vision and create a seamless, custom experience just for you.

The beauty of eloping is you have the freedom to create a day that’s fully yours with endless possibilities. The city is your oyster! If you’re looking for your next elopement photographer, let’s chat! Take a peak at Justin and Winnie’s city elopement.

Vendor Recommendations

• Videographer
• Content Creator
• Florist
• Baker
• Additional rentals / activities
• Reserve restaurants in advance

Photoshoot Locations

The fun doesn’t have to stop here when you have the entire city to yourself! Be sure to allocate time for just the two of you and celebrate your marriage. Here are a list of my favorite photoshoot locations around Boston that’ll be perfect for your next adventure.

1. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

2. Boston Commons / Boston Garden

3. Faneuil Hall Marketplace + Quincy Market – Great for those looking for a food adventure and place to recharge while looking at various selections of New England favorites

4. Beacon Hill

Happy Eloping!

If you’re interested in learning more about Natasha’s elopement experiences, please get in touch! Explore Natasha’s full galleries and a glimpse of the care and attention that is brought to every couple looking to lock in their love.