Ultimate Guide: Intimate New Jersey Micro Weddings
While there are some great wedding venues in New York City and upstate New York for tiny weddings, there are some equally great options in New Jersey. As a native of NJ, I know that it's often overlooked. Maybe most of your family resides in the Garden State and you want to make it convenient, or you’re looking for options outside of NYC because you’re simply not a city person. Whatever your reasons, let's dive into everything you need to know about New Jersey micro-weddings, complete with venue recommendations and more!
The Benefits of Choosing New Jersey for Your Micro-Wedding
Choosing New Jersey as the location for your intimate wedding comes with many benefits. First, New Jersey's proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia makes it an ideal location for guests coming from out of town. This means that there are a variety of transportation options available, making it easy for your guests to get to your wedding venue. Additionally, New Jersey offers a diverse range of wedding venues that cater to different styles and budgets. From outdoor parks and gardens to rustic barns and intimate restaurants, you're sure to find the perfect location for your special day. NJ also features scenic beaches, charming small towns, and a vibrant cultural scene, providing plenty of opportunities for pre- and post-wedding activities for you and your guests. Another benefit of choosing New Jersey is its lower cost of living compared to many other states, which can help stretch your wedding budget further and allow you to add special touches to your day without breaking the bank. Overall, New Jersey is a fantastic choice for couples looking for a unique and memorable wedding location that offers convenience, diversity, and affordability.
Getting a Marriage License in New Jersey
If you're planning to get married in New Jersey, you'll need to get a marriage license before your wedding day. Thankfully, the process is relatively straightforward. To start, you can download the marriage license application from the New Jersey government website. Once you've filled out the application, you'll need to contact either your local municipal office or the office of the town where you'll be getting married. You can apply for a marriage license up to six months in advance of your wedding date. Keep in mind, however, that once you pick up your marriage license, you'll have only 30 days to get married. It's important to plan accordingly and make sure that your wedding date falls within that window. It's also worth noting that both you and your partner will need to be present to apply for a marriage license, and you'll need to bring government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Overall, obtaining a marriage license for your New Jersey mirco-wedding is a straightforward process, and with a little bit of planning, you can ensure that everything is in order for your special day!
Weddings Officiants in New Jersey
It's no longer as popular for wedding couples to hire traditional religious leaders or government-appointed officials to officiate their wedding vows. Nowadays, lots of couples ask a close friend or family member to perform the wedding ceremony, adding a personal touch and emotional connection to the occasion. In New Jersey, this is absolutely possible and legal - any ordained professional can officiate a wedding, including those who get their ordination through the Universal Life Church. However, it's important to keep in mind that rules and regulations can vary from town to town. While some towns may not require any certification, others may ask officiants to submit their certificate before the wedding day. So before your big day, make sure to check in with the registrar's office in the town where you're getting married to ensure that your chosen officiant is able to legally and officially marry you. By doing so, you'll be able to have peace of mind and ensure that your wedding day runs smoothly without any unexpected hiccups.
Accessibility
In addition to finding affordable accommodations and transportation options, it's important to consider the location of the nearest airport when planning for out-of-town guests. Depending on where in New Jersey you're getting married, your guests may need to fly into a different airport. For those heading to North Jersey, Newark is likely to be the easiest option, while guests attending a wedding in South Jersey may find it more convenient to fly into Philadelphia. Be sure to provide your guests with information about the nearest airport to your wedding venue and any transportation options available to help them plan their trip. With some advanced planning, you can help make sure your guests arrive at your wedding relaxed and ready to celebrate your special day.
Transportation and Accommodations
If you're planning an intimate NJ wedding, and expect guests to stay for a few days, it's important to provide them with options for affordable accommodations and transportation, as well as things to do in the area. There are many ways to find affordable accommodations in New Jersey, including arranging hotel room blocks near your wedding venue or using online booking platforms to find affordable vacation rentals. Transportation options like rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services are widely available in New Jersey, so guests can easily explore the surrounding areas. It's also worth creating a list of nearby attractions and activities, like visiting the beach or exploring local parks, that guests can enjoy during their stay. Consider putting together a welcome packet or section of your wedding website with information about the area, including restaurant recommendations and local events, to help your guests make the most of their trip. By offering affordable accommodations, transportation options, and things to do in the area, you can ensure that your guests have a memorable and enjoyable experience in New Jersey.
Venues
As I mentioned in the intro of this post, New Jersey is a hidden gem when it comes to micro-weddings, often overlooked by couples seeking an intimate celebration. While many may associate the state with larger ballrooms, there are various other offerings, including charming rustic venues, delightful restaurants, and breathtaking parks and beaches that are perfect for smaller guest counts. And don’t worry, you won't find any ballrooms on this list. There are already plenty of other websites that cover those extensively. Instead, get ready to explore unique venues, hidden gems, and captivating locations that will make your intimate wedding truly special. New Jersey is filled with surprises, and we're here to help you discover the perfect setting for your unforgettable celebration!
New Jersey Venues to Consider
Seven President’s Park (Ceremony Only)
Location: Long Branch
About: Overlooking the beach and operating by the county park system, this is the perfect place If you’re envisioning a sandy, barefoot ceremony. You can call 732-842-4000, ext. 1, to book.
Location: Morris Township
About: If being surrounded by flowers and nature is your thing, this arboretum has some great options. You can email parkreservations@morrisparks.net for more information about booking.
Location: Edison
About: If you have a tiny group, you can get married under a gazebo overlooking the park’s lake. You can call (732) 745-3900 for availability and pricing.
Ceremony + Reception
Location: Summit
About: 13.5 acres of versatile settings, including a Rose Garden which is set next to a brook, perfect for intimate ceremonies.
Location: Long Beach Island
About: A restored Victorian Inn at the end of the Jersey Shore provides a mix of coziness and elegance.
Location: Blairstown
About: A bed and breakfast with old stone buildings and a waterway, this venue also has overnight accommodations. While the grounds can hold a larger wedding with a tent, the dining room is designed for 75 guests or under.
Jockey Hollow Bar & Restaurant
Location: Morristown
About: Located in the palazzo-styled Vail Mansion, the Jockey Hollow Bar has both an outdoor patio and private dining room both set for intimate groups.
Location: Ringoes
About: With estate grown wines in-house catering and 88 stunning acres, this winery has a package specifically designed for under 60 guests.
Location: Berkeley Heights
About: Equipped with a stone fireplace and views of their garden, this brewery’s private room is perfect for groups under 50.
Location: Lambertville
About: Located in central New Jersey, this boutique hotel has a charming courtyard perfect for a Spring, Summer or Fall celebration.
Location: Saddle River
About: A 210 year old barn is now a fine dining establishment which can accommodate a maximum of 80 people.
Location: Glen Ridge
About: Sophisticated loft setting with exposed brick and working fireplace makes for the coziest winter wedding setting.
Ready to start planning your New Jersey micro-wedding but need some extra support? Send me an email to start your intimate celebration today!