Top 6 Venues You’ll Want To Wed In New York

With wedding season year round, the fall season seems to be a popular time for New Yorkers and non New Yorkers alike. With eclectic bridal style preferences, destination ceremonies, couples are opting for edgier settings.

Our features writer Mahogany (and newly minted bride) compiles a list of beautiful and unconventional wedding venues that are perfect for the discerning bride.

Mahogany Turner-Francis

1. City Hall

Quick, fun, and easy, City Hall costs $55 for both the marriage license and the ceremony. The ceremony can be done 24 hours after acquiring the marriage license and you can go anytime during the day. You go in, sign your marriage license, stand up for quick “I Do’s” and you’re married! Quick, yes, but it’s not short of romanticism. Whether you go alone, or with friends and family, it’s an experience to remember. City Hall has specific wedding hours so make sure you pop over to their website for more information. For inspiration for City Hall weddings, check out @marriedinny on Instagram.

2. The Bronx Zoo

Not only for environmentalists, conservationists and animal lovers. With an average cost of $31k, the Bronx Zoo is an elegant and alternate wedding venue for the bride who loves the outdoors. Not to worry, the animals will remain in their cages, but that won’t stop the guests from acting like animals on the dance floor. The zoo provides services from dance floors to meals and decor. With the open air and a unique wedding at the zoo, it’ll be something no one will ever forget. Go here for more information.

Lauren and Neil’s wedding at the Bronx Zoo in New York, New York via Chrisman Studios

3. The New York Public Library

For all the sex in the city fans and for you bibliophiles who have dreamed of getting hitched amongst the pages and pages of literature, The New York Public Library is the place for you. No religious ceremonies are allowed on the premises, and only a mayor, judge, or other civil servant can conduct the ceremony. A professional wedding planner is also required, but this venue was voted one of the top venues in 2014 by The Knot. This place will make you feel like you walked out of the pages of one of the fairy tales on the shelf. Go here for more information.

The New York Public Library

The New York Public Library Entrance

The New York Public Library

4. The Brooklyn Botanical Garden

Need a breath of fresh air after the stress of wedding planning? Relax in the beautiful oasis of the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. The trees and flowers will be the only decorations you need to celebrate your big day, because of the grandeur of the garden venues. Ranging anywhere for $30k to $50k, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is a venue that is designed to impress. With elaborate cherry blossom trees serving as your altar and guests adorned in various colors, this wedding venue is for the flower crown bride. Go here for more information.

The Brooklyn Botanical Garden

5. The Plaza

One of the most expensive and sought after venues in New York City. It has become a popular for celebs and high profile individuals for their preferred nuptials. The Plaza is an iconic link to the history and elegance of New York City. Located at the storied intersection of Central Park and Fifth Avenue, The Plaza is at the center of world-class events and prestige. From small gatherings to extravagant weddings, The Plaza is a most spectacular location for events of all kinds.

The Plaza Weddings

6. Cipriani, 42nd Street

Cipriani used to be a restaurant. Now it is only open to events and weddings. Conveniently located in the heart of Manhattan, this Italian Renaissance inspired masterpiece showcases towering marble columns, soaring ceilings, magnificent inlaid floors and glorious chandeliers. Distinctive cuisine and classic service delight guests and compliment the old world charm and pure beauty this venue has to offer. Truly a unique venue.

Cipriani 42nd Street

I’m sure you can design your dream wedding with any of these choices. Remember brides, it’s your day!

-MTF