Starting 7.24.11 – a date that will live in the storied history of New York’s civil rights movement – marriage equality becomes law in New York State.
To celebrate, I LOVE NEW YORK is launching its Save the Date campaign, offering packages for weddings between same-sex couples in some of the most world-renowned travel destinations – from Niagara Falls to New York City.
So make your travel plans to join in the celebration this summer and beyond… because you’re getting married in New York State!
For wedding and honeymoon deals & packages, click HERE.
Facts you may need to know:
Who can marry under the New York State Marriage Equality Act?
Any couple that meets current requirements for getting married in New York State is eligible to marry regardless of sexual orientation. More information on the requirements of getting married in New York State is available from the New York State Department of Health.
Can we get married in New York State even if we don't live there?
Yes, New York State invites couples who live in other states or countries to get married.
How do I get a marriage license?
To obtain information on how to get a marriage license and for other information about marriage licenses in New York State please visit the New York State Department of Health website.
When can weddings between same-sex couples take place?
Couples are able to obtain marriage licenses starting 30 days after the legislation was signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo, which was June 24, 2011. Therefore licenses can be obtained on July 24, 2011. Check with your destination’s city or county clerk for applicable information.
More wedding destination ideas:
If intimate is more to your taste, you might choose a classic Victorian estate such as The Pillars in nearby Albion, a lovingly restored Queen Anne mansion inspired by the epic grandeur of Gone with the Wind. The John Morris Manor in Seneca Falls is one of many quaint B&Bs dotting the scenic Finger Lakes wine country, which will offer special honeymoon pricing.
Adventurous souls might appreciate the historical 1835 grist mill setting of St. Johnsville’s Inn by the Mill, with theme rooms, private waterside cottages and hot-tub spas overlooking cascading waterfalls. Or escape to the wide open Adirondacks at the Mirror Lake Inn’s legendary lakeshore, offering special honeymoon packages in the shadow of the Olympic Village.
Romance is the byword at The Mansion near historic Saratoga Springs, where ceremonies can be fashioned to your specific desires. Traditionalists will appreciate Kingston’s Celebration Chapel on the Hudson, a restored 150-year-old church with tiffany windows, working pipe organ and steeple-bell. Or sample the unique vibe of Woodstock at Bed by the Stream, a cozy ranch-style inn by streamside orchards.
Nestled on the banks of the Hudson, The Rhinecliff, with stunning views, award winning cuisine, and lavish bridal suites. Festivities brighten with a taste of the grape, and Orange County’s Cromwell Manor Inn is happy to oblige. In Ellenville, Honor's Haven Resort & Spa offers luminescent lakeside ceremonies specially packaged for weddings between same-sex couples.
Or you can head for the banks of Esopus Creek and The Stone House Bed and Breakfast, a stunning three-century-old Dutch estate with affordable wedding packages and acres of gardens and woodland. The nautically-minded can tie the knot aboard The Pride of the Hudson which sails from the Newburgh Waterfront in Orange County. Empire Cruise Lines won’t settle for the ordinary, featuring dream like events aboard the Mystère gliding past Gilded-age mansions and soaring mountains along the Hudson. Or stay ashore with the "When You Want More Than the Bare Essentials" package at Le Petit Chateau, a charming Hyde Park inn that dresses its celebrations with kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, winery and spa packages.
The Big Apple is abuzz with creative wedding ideas, beginning with “Pride in the City” wedding packages offered by the boutique Affinia Hotels at locations throughout Manhattan. The Westin in Times Square has crafted wedding packages that cover every detail down to the four-tiered wedding cake. And The GEM Hotel, a collection of neighborhood properties in Chelsea, Midtown West and SoHo, offers a “hotel takeover” option that lets wedding parties take over an entire floor or even an entire GEM Hotel. Star-studded venues including The Ritz Carlton, W Hotels, The Skylight Group and Le Parker Meridien have all put out welcome mats with creative ways to wed in the most famous city in the world.
For more New York State lodging and accommodations, click HERE.