Reason 2: But You Don’t Need to Spend a Fortune to do Something Original

The pond in Central ParkPhoto: Dave Robbins

Little known fact: It costs $25 to get married in Central Park. Permits can be obtained about a month in advance, which sure beats the average six-to-twelve-month lead time necessary to book most New York City venues—ceremony sites included. The allowed size of your guest list depends on the location, and with the exception of the Conservatory Gardens, nearly every area of the park is permit-able (however, you cannot set up a tent and only acoustic music is allowed). Some favorites: Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, Cedar Hill, Cherry Hill, Ladies Pavilion, and the Pond.

Reason 2: