New York’s City Hall Gets a Major Marriage Makeover

Up until today, if you were looking for a city hall wedding in New York City anything like the one Carrie Bradshaw shared with Mr. Big in Sex and the City The Movie you’d be hard-pressed to find an even remotely similar experience.  Thankfully, the marriage bureau now has an all new look and service list, making those dull (and sometimes even dusty) quickie “I do”s a thing of the past for the city’s residents and visitors.

Today I attended the official re-opening of city hall and watched the first ever wedding take place in the new digs. Queens couple, Carlos Sanchez and Jennifer Avila, welcomed the media as guests at their intimate ceremony. The Knot magazine's editor in chief Carley Roney spoke at the opening and was on hand to congratulate the happy couple. It officially opens on Monday, and judging from my sneak peak, it’s going to be quite an upgrade for all you soon-to-be NYC brides.  Already second only to Vegas, as far as quickie weddings go, it’s clear New York is now gunning for that top spot.

Here’s a rundown of what the new (and improved) facility has to offer anyone looking to elope in New York:

Last Minute Shopping: Stop by the shop there to purchase flowers, rings,  tissues or any other last minute wedding must-have. Oh, and no need to call a photographer – you can pick up disposable cameras there too. (Look out for the $9 fake diamond rings!)

Faster and More Convenient Service: You can now handles each step of the process i one convenient place. Check in as soon as you arrive, then head to computerized kiosks for immediate service. They’ve streamlined the process, so expect fewer lines. Plus, look out for spacious and well lit lobby areas, more seating, and video monitors that keep you updated on your place in line, and your estimated wait time. You can even put a marriage license request in online -- a long overdue first! Oh, and did we mention their promise to greet you with a smile!? (Yes… they found a New Yorker that likes to smile!)

Bride-Friendly Bathrooms: They’re spacious, gorgeous, and come with full length mirrors and lots of counter space for last minute beautification.

Great Photo Opps: Say goodbye to dreary yellow walls and lighting. The new office is freshly painted, with lots of light, and an oversize photo of city hall that provides the perfect backdrop for your keepsake wedding photo. Even the lobby (shown above) is totally photo-worthy.

Room For Guests: Choose from one of two newly designed chapels (Mayor Michael Bloomberg enlisted the services of celebrity designer Jamie Drake), both of which can accommodate up to 30 guests.

Interested in eloping in the city? Visit the City Clerk’s Office for more details.

photos: Charli Penn (couple and bouquet), Spencer Tucker/Office of the Mayor