So You Wanna Marry Your Cousin in the Big Apple? Cousinly Love in the Empire State
Let's face it, folks, love can bloom in the strangest places. Maybe you grew up next door to your cousin, sharing childhood secrets and trading Pokémon cards (remember those?). Maybe you reconnected as adults over brunch mimosas and discovered a spark that Aunt Mildred's tuna casserole couldn't extinguish. But before you rush down to City Hall in your finest tracksuit pants (hey, it's New York, anything goes!), there's one burning question: can cousins get hitched in the land of Lady Liberty?
Hold Your Horses (or Should We Say, Hold Your Carriage Horses in Central Park?)
The answer, my love-struck friend, is yes, with a side of "but." In New York, the law doesn't specifically prohibit marriages between first cousins. It's like the whole "breakfast food for dinner" situation – totally acceptable, but maybe raise an eyebrow or two.
But Wait, There's More! (Because in New York, There Always Is)
Here's the juicy part: while New York says "I do" to cousin couples, some other states are like "absolutely not!" on the cousin-marriage train. So, if you ever decide to escape the hustle and bustle for a romantic getaway in, say, Alabama (hey, no judgement!), your Empire State vows might not hold water.
So, What's the Deal?
Here's the gist:
- New York greenlights cousin marriages.
- Other states might throw a red flag.
- Do your research before you jet set for a vow renewal in Vegas.
Bonus Round: Why All the Fuss About Cousins Anyway?
There are some genetic concerns about marrying close relatives, but hey, we're not here to play doctor. Let's just say, if you're planning on starting a family, it might be a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional before saying "I do."
Alright, Alright, Enough Talk. How Do I Make This Cousin-Marriage Thing Happen?
Here's the quick and dirty:
- Make sure you're actually first cousins. This might seem obvious, but hey, stranger things have happened (especially in New York!).
- Grab your boo and head to the clerk's office. Bring your IDs and proof of your cousin-ness (not required, but might raise some fun questions).
- Get hitched! Now you can celebrate your love with a slice (or ten) of New York's finest pizza.
**FAQ: Cousin-Marriage in the Empire State
How to find out if your cousin marriage is legal in another state?
A quick Google search with "[State name] cousin marriage laws" should do the trick.
How to deal with judgemental relatives about your cousin marriage?
Humor is always a good defense. Remind them that first-cousin marriages were once pretty common amongst royalty (ew?).
How to prepare for a potential awkward family reunion after your cousin marriage?
Practice your best "we're-totally-happy-and-normal" couple pose in the mirror beforehand.
How to explain your cousin marriage to your kids?
Honesty is key. Explain that you and your spouse just love each other very much, and maybe leave out the genetic details for now.
How to know if marrying your cousin is the right decision?
That, my friend, is a question only you and your not-so-distant love can answer.
