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Best New Jersey Elopement Locations

While there are no shortage of gorgeous venues offering up their space for elopements, sometimes a more laidback option feels more you. In light of everything that’s happening in the world, more and more couples are searching for a beautiful spot in nature to exchange vows and take some photos. I decided to round up a list of great New Jersey elopement locations to share with you.

For those who are new to this blog, my name is Sarah and I am a New Jersey and New York micro wedding planner. I have been specializing in small & intimate weddings since the beginning, but of course in the current state of affairs, micro weddings are becoming even more popular! My goal with writing this blog is to provide everything you need to know about planning an intimate New Jersey or New York wedding. From venue recommendations to planning advice, I cover it all.

Today’s topic: New Jersey elopements. Here’s a list of where to have your ceremony, plus some tips about how to dress up an empty space!

The Great Lawn

Location: Long Branch, NJ

Cost: $150-$500 depending on resident or non-resident

Features: The Great Lawn is an option for those who love the beach views but don’t want to deal with the sand. It has bench seating, and a pavilion style covering which acts as a built-in rain plan.

Kip’s Castle

Location: Verona, NJ

Cost: $250.00 for 2 hours

Features: This medieval style castle has so many nooks and crannies for photos, not to mention the stunning view of NYC.

Eagle Rock Reservation

Location: West Orange, NJ

Cost: $115

Features: Located along the Watchung Mountains ridge line, you could have your ceremony overlooking New York City, or in a more wooded area in the reservation.

Deep Cut Gardens

Location: Middletown, NJ

Cost: $525

Features: 54 acres of different flowers and plants, and a stunning pergola to tie the knot under.

Alpine Pavilion

Location: Englewood, NJ

Cost: $300

Features: Open air pavilion on the banks of the Hudson River in Palisades Interstate Park.

Cross Estate Gardens

Location: Morristown, NJ

Cost: $75 and up

Features: The wisteria-covered pergola makes for an ideal ceremony backdrop.

Reeves Reed Arboretum

Location: Summit, NJ

Cost: $250-$750

Features: With both an azalea garden and a rose garden, flower lovers definitely have their pick of beautiful spots.

Leonard J Buck Garden

Location: Far Hills, NJ

Cost: $150/hr

Features: A rustic gazebo is tucked between perennials, grasses and shrubs for those looking for lots of greenery.

Seven President's Park

Location: Long Branch, NJ

Cost: $275

Features: If you’d had your heart set on a true beach wedding, this park is for you.

Now that you have some locations to explore, here are some tips to make your space extra special.

Signage

Anything that can be propped up against a tree or that can sit on an easel is a great way to bring some personality to your elopement.

Snacks & Drinks

Bring a lightweight folding table & a pretty tablecloth. Set some pre-chilled mini bottles of champagne and boxed up sweets. Creating as little waste as possible is the move for public spaces. Just make sure you understand the liquor rules for your site beforehand!

Florals

Instead of worrying about a big arch or arbor set up, opt for deconstructed florals. Pieces that can be picked up and moved without a breakdown are ideal for this type of setting.

Make an Exit

For an awesome photo opp, plan your exit! Bubbles or colored smoke bombs can make a big statement.

Use Transportation to Your Advantage

A fun way to have some extra decorated elements without actually setting up is some form of transportation. Rent an old school convertible and have your florist decorate the back, or get a cool VW van that your whole crew can fit into.

If you’re looking for an elopement planner in New Jersey, reach out here.