Some wedding days start with a limo. Jackie and Dan’s began with a MetroCard (…well, now you can use Apple Pay but…) Their NYC elopement was the perfect mix of relaxed, stylish, and deeply personal—rooted in the kind of local charm that only New York can offer.

Starting the Day on the Subway

We met underground, surrounded by the usual weekday buzz—commuters, coffee cups, and trains. There’s something symbolic about starting the next chapter of your life via the subway: unpredictable, full of movement, and uniquely New York. We made sure to hop on the last car for better odds of less people

Morning Coffee at Ralph’s

Our first stop was to Ralph’s Coffee inside the Ralph Lauren flagship on Madison Avenue. It’s more than just a café—it’s an experience. The space is timeless and elevated, with polished wood, marble counters, and just the right amount of old-school glam.

Why Ralph’s Is a Perfect Elopement-Day Stop:

• Calm before the ceremony: It offers a peaceful pause in a hectic city.
  
• Stunning interior: The café is rich in textures and warm lighting, perfect for candid, editorial-style photos.
  
• Fuel up: Coffee, pastries, and a moment to breathe together before the “I dos.”
  

A Stroll to The Met

From Ralph’s, we walked to The Metropolitan Museum of Art—an architectural icon and a favorite elopement backdrop. Whether you’re in formal wear or dressed-down chic, the steps of the Met feel grand without being stiff. There’s an effortless romance to it.

What to Know About Photography at The Met:

• On the steps: No permit required if you’re keeping it low-key and non-intrusive.
  
• Inside the museum: Photography is allowed (no flash, no tripods), but discretion is key.
  
• Tickets: You can purchase online or in person. NY State residents can “pay what you wish.”
  

A Classic Nightcap at Bemelmans Bar

After portraits and vows, we wrapped the day at Bemelmans Bar inside The Carlyle Hotel. It’s the kind of place where time slows down. Hand-painted murals, live piano jazz, and velvet everything—it’s an icon for a reason.

Tip: Make a reservation ahead of time if you’re going on a weekend. Dress codes lean upscale, so it’s a great excuse to stay in your elopement attire a little longer.

If you’re dreaming of an NYC elopement that’s intimate but still full of character, this day is proof that magic lives in the little moments.