choosing a spot: venue vidi vici
A lot of people have asked me where else I looked before we finally settled on The Plaza. New York City is lousy with choices: do you want to get married in an old synagogue that's been repurposed to look like somewhere Kanye West would throw his album release party? Then please check out Angel Orensanz Foundation. Unfortunately it was a little too small for us, but it is seriously ethereal. What about those of you wanting one of those quintessentially raw spaces where each room is different but still shabbily chic paint? Please check out The Metropolitan Building.
While neither of those ended up on our short list, the point is that New York has something for EVERYONE. Whether you're doing an intimate soiree for 10 or blowing up The Waldorf with a 500 all-night rager, there is a perfect spot for your big day. If you are planning on having a big wedding, however, please note that a fair amount of hotels don't have huge ballroom spaces. The ones below can all accommodate huge Italian-Filipino-Jewish celebrations such as our own.
Our parameters were as following: Bride (Juliet) wanted a black-tie, evening affair for approximately 300 people within the city limits of New York. Groom (Mike) wanted a dance floor.
If yours are similar, I definitely suggest you check out any of the below listings. Any of them would have been spectacular for our wedding.
The Waldorf Hotel Looking for a jaw-dropping double ballroom? There's no equal in all of New York. My favorite part of this space is that they'll even close off one of the lobbies for your and your guests.
The Roosevelt Hotel The vibe here is similar to The Waldorf, but with a friendlier price tag. Plus, location right near Grand Central makes it very accessible.
The Pierre Hotel Beautiful space and you're right near Central Park for lush photos.
The Mandarin Oriental No venue will have better views than the ballroom here. Downside? I think this might be the most expensive venue per head we saw.
The Lighthouse/Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers Are you a foodie? Then have Abigail Kirsch do your catering. Half of the presentation here is all about the food, which is suitably delectable.
Bridgewaters Chelsea Piers feel located near South Street Seaport. The sunset views with the bridge are like something out of a postcard.
The Brooklyn Museum Arguably my favorite ballroom we saw. The Beaux-Art Court has the most fantastic see-through floor.
The Brooklyn Botanic Gardens If you want to do an outdoor wedding in New York, I can think of no better place. Bonus: only one wedding at a time means you can pick whatever garden you like.
583 Park Avenue This converted church features an incredible domed ceiling and a built-in organ. The high ceiling is awe-inspiring.
Tribeca Rooftop Raw space + private rooftop makes this a quintessential and luxurious downtown pick. Taking pictures on the cobblestones is uber-romantic.