Elopements Packages in NJ & NYC: Ditch the Courthouse

When it comes to eloping, why settle for the bland, impersonal vibe of a courthouse when you can have a day that’s romantic, beautiful, and uniquely yours?

At Weddings By Aretha, I am your elopement wedding officiant creating unforgettable elopement experiences for couples who want more than just a signature on a piece of paper.

Beautiful Bride with her boutique at Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit, NJ.

Whether you’re eloping in the heart of New York City, a serene New Jersey park, or anywhere in the tri-state area, I’m here to make your dream day memorable.

Bride and groom exchanging romantic wedding vows in the lush gardens of Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit, New Jersey.

Why Choose Weddings By Aretha?

As a professional wedding officiant, I go beyond just “showing up and saying the words.” My services include:

  • Personalized and meaningful ceremonies tailored to your love story.

  • Optional photography and videography services to capture every magical moment.

  • Live-streaming options so your loved ones around the world can witness your special day.

  • Assistance in obtaining a Certified Marriage Certificate on the same day for weekday weddings during business hours.

With me, you’ll have a stress-free experience filled with love, joy, and memories that last a lifetime.

Bride and groom exchanging heartfelt wedding vows in a lush, green park setting in Somerset, NJ

A Love Story to Remember: Yessenia and Sergei’s Magical Elopement

One of the most heartwarming and inspiring couples I’ve had the honor of working with is Yessi and Sergei.

Their love story is a testament to fate, resilience, and the beauty of finding “the one” at the right time.

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From Ships to Forever

Yessi, a Peruvian Psychologist and Entertainment Manager, and Sergei, a classically trained Pianist from Ukraine, met aboard a cruise ship in 2019.

After losing touch during the pandemic, their paths crossed again in 2021. This time, they promised never to be apart again.

Bride and Groom exchange a kiss before their Elopement Ceremony officiated by Wedding Officiant Aretha Gaskin

Sergei’s proposal was as extraordinary as their love story. Aboard the Silver Spirit, he coordinated a magical night, complete with a theater-turned-romantic-haven, live music, and an unforgettable moment at the piano where he asked Yessi to marry him.

A wide-angle view of Yessi and Sergei’s intimate elopement ceremony with their Wedding Officiant – Weddings By Aretha

Their Enchanting Ceremony

For their elopement, Yessi and Sergei opted for an intimate ceremony that incorporated their cultural traditions and personal touches.

Sergei serenaded Yessi on the piano—a breathtaking moment we’ll never forget. The ceremony was performed in multiple languages, blending their rich heritages in a truly unique way.

With stunning elopement photographers and videography, and live-streaming for their international family and friends, their day was nothing short of magical.

A Dreamy Ceremony at Reeves-Reed Arboretum

Yessi and Sergei chose the breathtaking Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit, New Jersey, as the backdrop for their magical elopement.

Nestled among lush gardens, blooming flowers, and towering trees, the Arboretum provided an enchanting setting that perfectly complemented their love story.

The serenity of the location made their intimate ceremony even more special. From the soft rustling of leaves to the vibrant bursts of color in the surrounding gardens, every detail added a touch of natural beauty to their day.

As Sergei serenaded Yessi on the piano, the picturesque setting of Reeves-Reed Arboretum enhanced the romance and elegance of the moment.

For couples seeking a stunning, serene location for their elopement, Reeves-Reed Arboretum offers a truly unforgettable experience.

It’s a place where love and nature intertwine to create timeless memories.

The Convenience of Eloping with Weddings By Aretha

Eloping doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or elegance. It means choosing simplicity without losing the charm.

Here’s how I make your day seamless:

Certified Marriage Certificate on the Same Day

Stunning Locations in the Tri-State Area

  • From the iconic landmarks of NYC to the tranquil parks of New Jersey, I’ll help you choose a location that reflects your love story.

Tailored Add-Ons

  • Want a photographer to capture every detail? A videographer to record your vows? A live-stream for your faraway loved ones? I’ve got you covered.

Testimonial
Aretha went above and beyond to help us organize all the details. She provided thoughtful recommendations for venues, photo and video vendors, and other key elements that perfectly made our day come together.


— Yessi & Sergei

Helpful Tips: Changing Your Last Name

After the wedding, many couples ask about the process of changing their last name. Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

  2. Update your Social Security card by submitting Form SS-5 along with your marriage certificate.

  3. Notify the DMV to update your driver’s license.

  4. Update your passport and other legal documents.

Here are some additional quick resources to make this process smooth for my couples.

2025 Couples: Don’t Wait to Book Your Elopement!

Dates and times are filling up fast for 2025!

If you’re ready to elope and create an unforgettable day, don’t delay. Reach out today to secure your spot with Weddings By Aretha.

Your love story deserves much more than a courthouse. Let’s create something magical together.

Ready to Plan Your Dream Elopement?

Contact me today and let’s start crafting the perfect day for you and your partner.

With Weddings By Aretha, you’ll have a beautiful, seamless, and memorable elopement experience you’ll cherish forever.

Testimonial
Aretha is more than just a Wedding Officiant, she is an angel who brings an extra layer of magic to your special day. She was the perfect fit for us, and we couldn’t imagine anyone else guiding us through such a meaningful moment.

— Yessi & Sergei

Aretha Gaskin

Aretha Gaskin is a Professional Wedding Officiant with over a decade of experience, dedicated to infusing absolute magic into every ceremony, ensuring that this pivotal moment is treated with the utmost care and reverence.

https://www.weddingsbyaretha.com/meet-aretha
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