If you’re like most brides-to-be, you’ve spent years of your life marveling over the most beautiful weddings featured in magazines, blogs, and television shows. Whether you’ve got a scrapbook of ideas or a Pinterest board full of inspiration, you’ve undoubtedly dreamt of having a beautiful wedding day that is uniquely your own.
In New York City, the possibilities are endless.
It’s a city unlike any other, which is certainly true when it comes to weddings. From iconic venues and photo opportunities to world-class cuisine, the city is packed with the potential to create an exceptionally beautiful wedding celebration.
In this article, we will be sharing the seven secrets to having a beautiful New York wedding. While the city itself is abundant with inspiration, these tips will help you create a memorable celebration that is uniquely your own.
Here’s how you can plan the picturesque New York wedding of your dreams.
Table of Contents
- What’s Required To Have a New York Wedding?
- 7 Ways To Make the Most of Your New York Wedding
- Julian Ribinik Wedding Photography: Helping Couples Plan and Document New York Weddings
What’s Required To Have a New York Wedding?
If you’re planning a New York wedding, there are a few requirements to consider before you start booking the fun stuff.
Couples wishing to get married in New York must apply in person to the New York City City Clerk’s office for a marriage license by appointment only. Both applicants must sign the application and it is valid for 60 days beginning the day after you apply.
The cost of the license is $35 and both applicants must be 18 years of age or older to apply. For the most up-to-date information regarding New York wedding and marriage licenses, contact the City Clerk’s Office at (212) NEW-YORK or via the website.
7 Ways To Make the Most of Your New York Wedding
#1: Embrace the Spirit of the City
When planning your wedding in a place as vibrant and eclectic as New York City, seize the opportunity to embrace the city’s spirit.
This doesn’t mean that you have to go over the top with a theme or design. In fact, doing so can often feel forced and inauthentic. Instead, take cues from the unique energy of NYC and let it shine through in the details of your wedding.
For example, if you’re tying the knot in one of NYC’s iconic venues, take advantage of the beautiful classic architecture and stunning city views. Or, if you love to wander around New York City and take in all the fantastic sights and sounds, let your wedding reflect that wanderlust with small NYC mementos on your gift or dessert table.
Here are a few ideas for adding a little bit of New York magic to your wedding photos:
- Pose in front of an iconic NYC landmark.
- Have your portrait taken in a busy, vibrant area like Times Square, Grand Central Terminal, or bustling 5th Avenue.
- Share a snack from a street vendor.
You can even ask your photographer for inspiration on how to capture the unique energy of New York City in your wedding photos. There are endless possibilities for incorporating the unique spirit of NYC into your wedding day. Just let yourself be inspired by all the city has to offer!
#2: Celebrate Your Story in the Details
Another beautiful aspect of New York weddings is the opportunity to celebrate your love story in a very tangible way. From the drinks and venue decor to the table settings and menu, every detail can help tell the story of your relationship.
Think about the unique moments and experiences that have brought you two together. Maybe it’s a favorite spot you shared on a first date. Or perhaps it’s a specific dish that holds a deeper meaning for you both.
Work with your vendors to take these unique elements of your story and transform them into something beautiful that your guests will love.
#3: Add Some Traditional New York Wedding Glamour
One of the things that makes a New York wedding so special is the opportunity to add a touch of traditional glamour. While there are endless ways to do this, some of our favorite ideas include:
- Hiring a string quartet or jazz band to play live music during your ceremony and reception.
- Choosing an elegant ballroom venue with beautiful chandeliers and classic decor.
- Serving a signature cocktail like a Manhattan or a Classic Old Fashioned.
- Dressing your bridal party in glamorous designer gowns and tuxedos.
- Styling your hair in a traditional NYC bride updo with full glam and accessories.
- Having an old-fashioned car take you to and from your ceremony venue.
#4: Choose an Iconic New York Wedding Venue
When it comes to wedding venues, New York City has endless possibilities. From the Renaissance-style architecture of the New York Public Library to Brooklyn’s very own Botanic Garden in Prospect Park, New York has some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the world.
If you’re looking for an iconic New York City venue, here are some of our favorites:
The Plaza Hotel
With its beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture and Central Park views, The Plaza is an NYC institution. It’s also one of the most spectacular wedding venues in the city.
New York Public Library
If you’re looking for a venue with beautiful classic architecture, the New York Public Library is a perfect choice. The library’s striking murals and breathtaking white marble entry are awe-inspiring.
Tribeca Rooftop
A Tribeca Rooftop wedding is something that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world. The location overlooks all of Manhattan and has breathtaking views. If you want to be reminded how beautiful New York City really is, this is your place!
#5: Let Your Venue Inspire Your Decor and Menu
Once you’ve chosen your dream venue, lean into the aesthetic as you develop your menu and make your decor choices. This is when you can work with your vendors to take inspiration from the unique features of your venue and create a harmonious experience.
For example, if you’re getting married in an industrial-chic warehouse on the waterfront, you might choose to use plenty of greenery and natural elements in your decor. For your menu, you might choose a more modern approach with fusion dishes or tapas-style plates.
Or, if you’re getting married in one of New York City’s beautiful ballrooms, consider using traditional decor elements like chandeliers and gold and marble accents to create a timelessly elegant look. You might also choose a menu that features classic items. Think white-glove butlered hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, and beautiful tiered wedding cakes.
#6: Capture the Details With a Photojournalistic Photographer
When it comes to capturing all the intricacies of your thoughtfully-planned New York wedding day, you need a photographer who understands the art of storytelling. You’ve spent countless hours planning the details, you want to make sure you have a photographer who captures your vision.
A photojournalistic wedding photographer will tell the story of your wedding day through beautiful images that immortalize all the unique details and emotions of your day.
If you’re looking for a photographer who can capture the magic of your special day, consider Julian Ribinik Photography. We’d love to share more about our approach to photography and how we can help you capture each moment of your beautiful New York wedding day.
Click here to see our entire portfolio.
#7: Embrace the Seasons
A New York wedding is lovely any time of the year. While many couples tend to lean toward summer weddings, choosing fall, winter, or spring can save you money and provide a unique experience for your wedding day.
A Spring Wedding in New York
Spring brings signs of new life and beginnings, making it perfect for a New York wedding. Not to mention, having your wedding in the spring helps to avoid the traffic of tourists on every street.
You can expect the cherry blossoms to be in full bloom during late March and April for absolutely stunning photos.
Or be prepared for the possibility of rain and pick up some bright and bold umbrellas to add a high-contrast punch of color to your black-and-white photography.
Be sure to book an indoor venue or a tent for your outdoor wedding if you are planning a New York wedding in the spring because temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, and you never know if it’s going to rain.
A Summer Wedding in New York
The summer months are by far the most popular for couples planning a New York wedding. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and New York’s many gardens are in full bloom.
June, July, and August are almost always a safe bet for outdoor weddings and dancing into the night.
You may still want to plan for a partial indoor venue as it can rain in New York, even during the summer.
A Fall Wedding in New York
There’s nothing more stunning or cinematic than the changing of the leaves in fall, and in places like Central Park, the trees can provide a backdrop like no other.
Temperatures are still relatively mild, tourist season is beginning to wane, and New York is still bustling with life.
An indoor/outdoor venue is still possible during the fall months of September and October, but you might want to consider staying indoors once November hits.
A Winter Wedding in New York
New York is spectacular in the winter months. From freshly fallen snow to Christmas lights and decorations adorning every window and venue, having your wedding in the winter can create a truly magical experience for all.
Since the days are shorter, you can plan your photography before the ceremony or choose an earlier time for your nuptials.
Indoor venues are definitely recommended as New York gets quite chilly during the winter months. Booking your New York wedding in the winter may also prove better for your budget.
Julian Ribinik Wedding Photography: Helping Couples Plan and Document New York Weddings
Julian Ribinik has been working with couples to plan New York weddings for years. We are more than just wedding photographers, we can help:
- Suggest incredible venues
- Connect you with our favorite vendors
- Plan the logistics of your day
- Make sure you have everything you need for a successful New York wedding
We are area experts and love nothing more than making sure our couples have the best day of their lives and that every special moment is carefully documented.
For more information, or to book us for your New York wedding, contact us today.
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