How to Elope in Boston Public Garden

You’ve seen the stunning photos. You’ve maybe even walked through the park when they have been performing a ceremony. But have you ever wondered how to elope at Boston Public Garden?

It is actually surprisingly easy!

Brief History of Boston Public Garden

Boston Public Garden was the first public garden in America and is probably one of the most popular elopement locations in Massachusetts. I always recommend that couples choose an elopement location that has sentimental importance to their relationship. Because of its historic significance, there are some regulations and guidelines that must be followed to hold your ceremony and elope here.

But where do you even start?

Thats where I can help! Planning an elopement at Boston Public Garden is actually a lot simpler than it sounds! From reserving your location, applying for permits, and your marriage license, to general guidelines and restrictions this guide helps you plan your perfect Boston Public Garden Elopement.

When can you elope at Boston Public Garden?

First, it is probably good to start with when you would like to elope. The Boston Public Garden has some pretty strict rules regarding when you can elope. They only schedule weddings between the months of April – November. You can only schedule your elopement between 3-5:30PM on Mondays – Fridays, or 11am-5:30pm on weekends.. Weddings are not allow weddings on legal holidays.

For more information, be sure to check out The Friends of The Public Garden.

How To Apply for Special Events Permit at Boston Public Garden?

You will need to apply for a A Special Events Permit to elope in the Garden. It is $50 for residents of Boston, and $100 for couples outside of the city limits. You can make the check out to the City of Boston at least 10 days before your wedding. For specific questions, contact the permitting office (617-635-4505)

How to Get a Marriage License for Your Boston Public Garden Elopement

After you filled out the above form, all you need to do is make it legal! 

About a month or so before your wedding day you can apply to get your marriage license. To apply, all you have to do is schedule an appointment at Boston City Hall. Couples must apply together and in person. When you apply you will need a valid ID and the $50 license fee. Your marriage license is valid for 60 days after you apply. Your license is only valid in Massachusetts. 

Do I Need to Hire an Officiant?

Short answer, yes. You will need to hire an officiant to marry you in MA. Long answer, no you don’t have to hire a separate vendor if you don’t want too.

While an officiant or Justice of the Peace will need to be present, if you would like to keep your ceremony smaller and more intimate, you could ask a close friend to get a one day designation. It is a $25 fee, and only applies for that specific day you are applying for. You can apply up to 6 months in advance, or apply up until 1 week of your wedding date.

If you want to keep your ceremony simple and you don’t want to hire a separate vendor, ask your photographer if they are ordained or if they would get the one day designation for you! At Tessa Klingensmith Photography, I am ordained and can legally marry you and your partner in MA. That way you will have the private ceremony you dreamed of!

Please note the following rules and guidelines (from Friends of the Public Garden)

Tents, tables, chairs, altars, arbors, decorations, signs, rice, birdseed, confetti, glass, balloons, props, or animals are prohibited. No music or amplified sound is allowed. You must be considerate of other park visitors and cannot block pathways or generally disrupt. Food and beverages are also prohibited. All trash and debris generated must be removed prior to departure.

I hope this guide helped you as you plan your Boston City Elopement! Reach out today for a free consultation call to go over all of your photography needs! Be sure to check out this article for more tips on How to Elope in Boston as well as Best Locations to Elope in Massachusetts.

Pin it and save it for later!