Alternative NYC Wedding Venues Perfect for Saying “I do”

Once the ring went on your finger, you knew your wedding would take place in New York City. The city is peppered with numerous venues ranging in size, style, and atmosphere. While the selection is great, the plethora of choices makes finding the perfect spot to exchange vows a stressful endeavor. And as the vision for your big day takes shape, you may start to realize that a huge hotel affair just isn’t for you. Perhaps, a cool loft space or quaint garden setting is more your style. Well your in luck! More and more couples are choosing to get married at alternative NYC wedding venues. We’ve had the pleasure of doing weddings at all the venues discussed below and can say with confidence, they exude unforgettable character, beauty, and ambiance. Added bonus: they cost less (for the most part) and are more flexible when it comes to availability, creative styling, and presentation.

 

The Foundry

Located in Long Island City, The Foundry is a 19th century building that has been meticulously restored with a look and feel that is chic, yet timeless. The venue’s lush, ivy covered courtyard provides a beautiful backdrop for taking photos. Many couples have their post-ceremony celebrations here, adding a sense of natural enchantment to reception atmosphere. Meanwhile, the raw, industrial interior acts as a blank canvas to show off ceremony floral decor. The Greenhouse, which boasts brick walls and a skylight ceiling, and The Terrace, which offers breathtaking views of Manhattan and Queensboro Bridge can also be rented to accommodate smaller weddings (or for additional space if needed). Except for rentals, tent rental, and catering, you are free to bring in your own outside vendors.

 

 

Brooklyn Winery

If you want your wedding to have a warm, romantic feel, the Brooklyn Winery in Williamsburg is the venue for you. Reserved for the ceremony, the Atrium is marked by reclaimed wood and a stunning glass ceiling, casting a dreamy mood over the space. The best parties are remembered for the great food and drink, right?! After exchanging vows, you can look forward to delectable fare by in-house Executive Chef Michael Gordon, which is served on hand selected vintage china complimented by pretty linens and antique table decor. Exquisite wines, all produced on site, flow freely, serving to make your wedding feast complete. For an unforgettable favor, give guests a bottle of wine with a custom-made label that commemorates your special day.

 

 

26 Bridge

Tucked under the Manhattan Bridge overpass, this Brooklyn venue, once a metal factory, stuns with its soaring ceilings, original brick walls, and beautiful iron and wood details. A skylight illuminates the interior to breathtaking effect. With a capacity of 250 seated, 26 Bridge is an ideal choice if you have a large guest list. One of the space’s main selling points is versatility – it combine’s NYC’s historic charm with a modern sensibility to accommodate all wedding styles. Couple’s are responsible for bringing in vendors and can choose from 26 Bridge’s recommended list of professionals.

 

 

Frankies 457

Do you envision your wedding as a relaxed, intimate affair surrounded by your closest friends and family? Housed in a 1900s converted Blacksmith stable and accompanying garden, Frankies 457 is a fine restaurant distinguished for its Southern Italian cuisine and urban rustic charm. The enchanted backyard garden provides a lovely backdrop for an unforgettable ceremony. After vows are exchanged, celebrate with those you love most while enjoying a delicious family style meal under a canopy of greenery. Offering understated elegance and style, Frankies 457 is the ideal spot for the easy-going couple to say “I do.”

 

 

Music Hall of Williamsburg

The Music Hall of Williamsburg isn’t just for catching the hottest bands passing through town. The concert hall doubles a really cool venue sure to add a bit of rock n’ roll edge to your wedding celebrations. Highlights include having your names and wedding date spelled out on the entrance marquee, exchanging vows on stage (as rockstars do), and a red carpet arrival if you so desire! Head down to the East River, located just a few blocks away, for amazing photo ops with the Williamsburg bridge and lower Manhattan in the background. A perfect spot for the couple who wants their wedding to be a big, smashing party!

 

 

The Bowery Hotel

An exception to the typical hotel wedding, the Bowery Hotel offers a distinctive, downtown vibe for couples who want an affair that is hip, yet sophisticated. Radiating romantic elegance, the space showcases rich brick and wood details illuminated by dazzling chandeliers above. A distinguishing factor is guest seating – long communal tables provide a relaxed, inviting reception atmosphere for guests to mingle. Taper candles, floral and greenery runners, and low centerpieces make for beautiful table decor. Gemma Restaurant, which is attached to the hotel, provides exclusive catering that includes hors d’oeuvres, main dish, dessert, and drinks (open bar and specialty cocktails).

Choosing where to get married is one of the most important decisions made during the wedding planning process. Don’t be pinned down by the idea that you have go the traditional route here. If an alternative venue feels right to you as a couple, then we say go for it!