New York & Connecticut Wedding Venues: How to begin the search

One of the biggest decisions you’ll consider  during your wedding planning is where to have it. Because there are so many unique wedding venues in the New York area, the decisions can be numerous.

We have put together a quick blog entry here to help you as you consider the details of your big day.

Consider the following criteria:

 Size

You absolutely must visit a venue beforehand to get a feel for its size.

Because you are having a small wedding, you might feel dwarfed in a venue that is too large. Conversely, if you are having several dozen guests, you want to make sure that you don’t feel cramped.

Budget

Chances are, not all small wedding venues will fit into your budget especially in a city like New York. If you’re budget doesn't allow you the venue you want for your wedding reception, perhaps having a brunch or cocktail reception at the venue instead is an option!

Meaning

Is there a place that has special meaning to both of you? Maybe you have a favorite bed and breakfast or a restaurant that is special to you. Choosing a meaningful location will help personalize your wedding.

Practicality

Would you rather get married inside or outdoors? If an outdoor wedding sounds more appealing, keep in mind that it can be more stressful; you are of course at the mercy of the elements!

Availability

You might have the perfect spot in mind for your wedding, but be sure to secure your dates, plus be sure the venue hosts weddings? If so, you’ll also have to find out if it has noise and alcohol restrictions.

Flexibility

The more flexibility you have with the time of week, and the time of day you want to get married the more small wedding venues will be available to you. There’s a greater chance that your chosen venue will be available on a Sunday night, than on Saturday. Remember that no matter what you choose for your wedding date, it’s best to start your search for a venue early. Places can book up over a year in advance.

Ideas for Small Weddings and Small Wedding Venues

SophterLight Photography has provided this list of ideas for small weddings as a good place to start. The linked items will take you to our venue finder where you'll find a list of venues that match the venue type. It’s a great place to find wedding venues and to get venue ideas.

• Your home, or the home of a friend or relative
• Favorite vacation spot
• Bed and breakfast
• Church
• Chapel
• Hotel
• Inn
• Restaurant
• Plane
• Boat
• Train
• Museum
• Loft/Studio/Gallery
• Historic mansion
• Theater
  
• Resort/Lodge
• Lodge

• Country Club
• Mountaintop
• Forest
• Park
• Amusement park
• Water Park
• Island
• Vineyard/Winery
• Brewery
• Skyscraper
• Castle
• Ranch
• Farm
• Barn
• Beach
• Famous landmark
• Hot air balloon

We have recently photographed several same-sex weddings in New York City where there are many options when it comes to roof-top wedding venues.  Here are three that we've been to recently. 

The Alger House

Alger House Modern Gallery, Artist's Atelier, Private Ballroom New York, New York LGBT Wedding Reception Venue Downing Street (near Sixth Avenue near Bleecker) Alger House Located on a lovely lane in Greenwich Village, is a unique, sought after New York venue, ideal for 25 to 110 Guests. This large loft like carriage house is adorned with art, architectural details, plants, and beautiful furnishings, and it has many amenities, including elevator, pianos, stereos, and AC.

In addition to the 2,550 square foot Great Room, the upstairs Garden Room is often used as a changing suite and features a large, antique bathroom. Couples and their family often gather here before the event to have a quiet, special place for photos and preparations before descending the grand staircase to their ceremony. Our French chef provides classy, cutting edge cuisine, and our outstanding waiters and executives will make you proud.

Tribeca Rooftop

Situated atop its 11th floor perch, The Tribeca Rooftop is a 15,000 square foot penthouse featuring panoramic views of the Hudson River, The Empire State Building, Soho and downtown Manhattan.  Above the 1,400 square foot cherry wood dance floor is a magnificent 65 foot long skylight offering an abundance of natural light enhancing the downtown loft atmosphere.  The stunning 18,000 square foot, landscaped rooftop is the perfect outdoor setting for any wedding.

Tribeca Rooftop offers a private entrance with a doorman attended lobby located at street level. Two dedicated elevators with ushers will accompany your guests directly to the event. The minimalist lobby area is ideal for an escort card table or registration desk. .

Astra

Astra is an intimately private event venue located in midtown Manhattan's exclusive Decoration & Design building. With spectacular panoramic river view from Astra's large fourteenth floor terrace, Astra offers elegant spaces for seated lunches and dinners from 20 to 140 guests, and receptions for up to 300. Offering signature Charlie Palmer fare and personalized menus for hors d’oeuvres and full dining, the airy event space offers sophisticated but friendly service. Astra provides unforgettable experiences for both corporate and social events.