A wedding in New York City can be as grand or as intimate as you want it to be. For some couples, the perfect day isn’t a ballroom with hundreds of guests — it’s a meaningful ceremony with family and a beautiful dinner to follow.
Whether you’re saying your vows at City Hall, in a quiet chapel, or on a rooftop overlooking Manhattan, pairing your ceremony with a dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants creates an intimate wedding day that feels warm, timeless, and deeply personal.
City Hall Weddings
New York’s City Hall is one of the most iconic places to get married. With its historic architecture and central location, it’s a simple yet memorable way to exchange vows. Many couples choose to follow the ceremony with photos in nearby neighborhoods like Tribeca, Soho, or the Brooklyn Bridge.
Small Ceremonies in Unique Venues
Some couples prefer a private chapel, garden, or even a friend’s home for their ceremony. These spaces add personal meaning and allow you to share the moment with just a handful of people.
Restaurant Dinner Receptions
Instead of a large reception, couples often host a dinner in a private dining room at a favorite restaurant. The glow of candlelight, shared plates, and heartfelt toasts create the feeling of a family gathering rather than a staged event.
Photography That Captures the Heart of the Day
For small weddings, photography plays an even greater role. With fewer distractions, it’s possible to document every glance, every laugh, and every quiet in-between moment.
Some of the most memorable images come from:
- Portraits after a City Hall ceremony, walking hand in hand through the streets of Manhattan.
- A toast shared at a restaurant reception, surrounded by family.
- Candid moments between parents, siblings, or lifelong friends.
These photographs tell the true story of the day — not just how it looked, but how it felt.
Tips for Planning a Small Wedding in NYC
- Guest List: Keep it limited to immediate family and a few close friends.
- Ceremony Choice: Decide whether you’d like the simplicity of City Hall, the tradition of a chapel, or the intimacy of a private rooftop.
- Reception: Book a private dining room at a restaurant you love for an elegant dinner that doubles as your reception.
- Photography: Allow time for portraits in locations that matter to you — whether that’s Central Park, Gramercy Park, or the cobblestone streets of Tribeca.
A Timeless Way to Celebrate
An intimate wedding in New York proves that scale doesn’t determine beauty. Whether you marry at City Hall, in a small ceremony, or followed by a dinner with family at a favorite restaurant, the day can be deeply personal, elegant, and unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small NYC Weddings
Can you have a wedding reception at a restaurant in New York City?
Yes. Many restaurants have private dining rooms perfect for intimate receptions, combining fine dining with a warm, personal atmosphere.
What makes a City Hall wedding special?
City Hall weddings are simple, iconic, and flexible. They also allow time for creative portraits around New York’s most photogenic streets and landmarks.
How many guests are typical for a small wedding?
Most intimate weddings in NYC have between 10 and 50 guests, but some couples choose just a witness and photographer for an even simpler celebration.
Do small weddings still need professional photography?
Absolutely. The quieter, candid moments of an intimate wedding are often the ones couples treasure most. Professional photography ensures those memories are preserved beautifully.
Thinking of getting married in the Hamptons? Discover the best venues, seasons, and tips for planning a refined, elegant wedding on Long Island’s coast.
There is something effortlessly magical about getting married in the Hamptons. With its pristine beaches, sweeping coastal estates, and relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, the Hamptons has become one of the most sought-after destinations for couples planning a wedding in New York. Whether you dream of a chic tented celebration by the ocean or an intimate ceremony at a private estate or a winery, a Hamptons wedding offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and timeless elegance.
Why Choose the Hamptons for Your Wedding
The Hamptons is known for its unique blend of luxury and ease. Couples are drawn here not only for the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean but also for the charming villages, farm-to-table cuisine, and iconic seaside architecture. Getting married in the Hamptons feels like a true destination wedding, without leaving New York. It’s a place where you can welcome guests into an environment that feels both elevated and deeply personal.
The Best Hamptons Wedding Venues
When planning a Hamptons wedding, venue selection sets the tone for the entire celebration. Some of the most beautiful and sought-after Hamptons wedding venues include:
- Private Estates – Offering exclusivity and privacy, estates provide a blank canvas for designing a one-of-a-kind wedding experience.
- Beachfront Locations – For couples dreaming of a ceremony with sand between their toes and the ocean as a backdrop.
- Vineyards & Farms – Perfect for a rustic yet elegant Hamptons wedding, showcasing the region’s natural charm.
- Luxury Resorts & Clubs – Combining five-star amenities with stunning coastal views, ideal for multi-day wedding weekends.
When to Get Married in the Hamptons
The most popular season for weddings in the Hamptons is late spring through early fall, when the weather is warm, the gardens are in bloom, and the ocean breeze feels just right. Summer weddings in the Hamptons are iconic, but early fall often offers slightly cooler temperatures and a more relaxed pace after peak season.
Hamptons Wedding Style & Atmosphere
Hamptons weddings are known for their effortless blend of sophistication and ease. Many couples opt for a refined coastal aesthetic: soft, natural tones, airy fabrics, and elegant design details that complement the surroundings. Think candlelit dinners under a sailcloth tent, cocktails by the water, and a dance floor beneath the stars.
Planning Tips for a Hamptons Wedding
- Book Early: Venues and vendors in the Hamptons book quickly, especially for summer dates.
- Consider Guest Logistics: Plan for accommodations and transportation, as the area can get busy during peak season.
- Embrace the Setting: Let the natural beauty of the Hamptons guide your design choices—understated elegance always shines here.
A Photographer’s Perspective
As a wedding photographer, I’ve found that the Hamptons offers some of the most breathtaking backdrops in New York. From golden sunsets over the dunes to quiet garden estates, the light and scenery here create a setting that feels cinematic yet intimate. Every Hamptons wedding has its own rhythm, but they all share that signature balance of relaxed luxury that makes this destination so special.
Recognized by Over The Moon as one of the top wedding photographers in the world, Bo Shim creates effortless, refined, and enduring wedding imagery worldwide.
’m so honored to be named once again as one of the Top Wedding Photographers in the World by Over The Moon. This recognition is incredibly meaningful to me and not only because of the distinction itself, but because it reflects the heart I pour into every wedding I photograph.
My approach has always been about more than just documenting a wedding day. I strive to create effortless, refined, and enduring imagery that feels both artful and authentic. Whether I’m photographing a chic city wedding in New York, a sunlit celebration in the Hamptons or upstate, or an intimate gathering anywhere in the world, my goal is always the same: to preserve love and legacy in a way that feels elevated yet deeply personal.
Being recognized among the best wedding photographers is a beautiful reminder of why I do what I do. Every couple, every family, and every celebration inspires me to continue capturing stories with intention and care.
There’s something undeniably magical about weddings in New York City—and Steve and Craig’s black-tie celebration at Guastavino’s was no exception. On October 5, 2024, under the iconic vaulted ceilings of this historic Manhattan venue, these two grooms tied the knot in a stunning, heartfelt ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends.
We are thrilled and honored to see their gorgeous wedding featured on BRIDES, a true testament to the beauty, emotion, and attention to detail that defined their special day. You can see the full feature HERE!
Steve and Craig began their wedding day in their stylish apartment in Hudson Yards. With panoramic views of the New York City skyline as their backdrop, the couple got ready together in a serene, joyful atmosphere. The intimate moments shared between them before the ceremony were full of laughter, quiet anticipation, and love—perfectly setting the tone for the rest of the day.
When it came time to choose their wedding venue, the couple explored various locations, some closer to their home. But once they discovered Guastavino’s in NYC, the decision became effortless. The venue’s breathtaking architecture, rich history, and romantic ambiance captured their hearts.
Tucked beneath the Queensboro Bridge, Guastavino’s is known for its dramatic arches, grand interiors, and lush garden elements—all of which created a unique and unforgettable setting for Steve and Craig’s celebration.
The ceremony took place by a symbolic tree created by Fleurs, which represents growth, strength, and unity. This beautiful structure served as the altar for their vows, embodying the life they’ve built and the future they are growing together.
Steve and Craig’s ceremony was deeply personal and emotionally rich. As guests looked on, the grooms exchanged heartfelt vows beneath the glowing canopy of the venue, with warm light cascading down the stone walls. The air was filled with love, joyful tears, and an undeniable sense of connection—not only between the couple but throughout the entire room.
After the ceremony, then the cocktail hour, the guests transitioned into the reception space at Guastavino’s, where elegance met exuberance. The room was transformed into a glamorous, energetic party atmosphere—complete with sophisticated black-tie décor, delicious cuisine, and, of course, dancing well into the night.
Steve and Craig wanted their wedding to feel like a celebration, and that’s exactly what it was. The reception was vibrant and lively, filled with laughter, cheers, and pure joy. The couple’s first dance was so romantic, and every detail—from the signature cocktails to the dazzling lighting—was perfectly curated to reflect their personalities.
Choosing a wedding at Guastavino’s means choosing timeless elegance, rich history, and unmatched atmosphere. The venue offers the ideal combination of Old New York charm and modern sophistication, making it a dream for any couple looking to celebrate in the heart of Manhattan.
Steve and Craig’s celebration was a perfect example of how a wedding at Guastavino’s can be both intimate and grand, classic yet contemporary. From the architectural grandeur to the garden-inspired ceremony, every moment was infused with intention, love, and the vibrant spirit of NYC.
Steve and Craig’s wedding was a true reflection of who they are as a couple: stylish, heartfelt, and full of joy. Their love story came to life in the most beautiful way at one of New York City’s most iconic wedding venues. It’s no wonder their day has been celebrated and featured in major publications like BRIDES—it was simply unforgettable.
Congratulations to Steve and Craig on their gorgeous Guastavino’s wedding! Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, love, and more celebrations to come.
Creative team:
Wedding Photographer Bo Shim
Day-of Coordinator Ness McGovern
Venue and Catering Guastavino’s
Steve’s Hair Frederic Boudet
Craig’s Hair The Groom House
Flowers Fleurs NYC
Invitations and Paper Products Custom Invitations by JoAnn
Music Sugar Lane
Accommodations The Equinox Hotel
Wedding Content Creator Emily Cline
Linens The Finishing Touch NY
What an incredible honor! I’m so grateful to be included on Over The Moon‘s Top Wedding Photographers list. To see my name mentioned alongside such amazing talents that I admire is truly humbling. This is reassurance that you can live out your dream with passion and resilience. ❤️
Weddings are such an important part of people’s lives, and it’s so rewarding for me to be able to have the opportunity to tell the story of their day through my photos. It’s one thing for me to say how much joy it brings me; it’s another thing altogether for clients to tell me themselves!
Love comes in all shapes and forms. I’m so blessed to be able to capture the most beautiful moments of people’s love for each other and call it my job.
Thank you again for the honor OVER THE MOON!
I’m very honored and excited to see Nhi & Sam’s wedding featured on BRIDES!
They were married in a beautiful ceremony at the Envue hotel in New Jersey and their ceremony had a gorgeous NYC skyline backdrop.
The bride wore an elegant gown by Dolong and the groom looked handsome in a custom tuxedo with a black bow tie. The couple exchanged vows in a romantic ceremony surrounded by family and friends, and the stunning wedding left everyone in awe. The ceremony and the reception decor were exquisitely designed by Aramat Events.
I’m excited to finally share some more photos from their special day. You can see the full feature HERE.
CREATIVE TEAM:
Venue @envuehotel
Photo @boshimphoto
DOC @genesiswedding
Florals and decor @aramatevents
Make up @belindani_makeup
Dresses @dolongofficial @adoli_bridal @tangthanhcong
Shoes @jimmychoo @louboutinworld
Band @zurich_music
Cake @palermos.bakery
Dj @mcjohnnydee
Desserts @maisonladuree
Balloons @balloonshopnyc
Video @rayromanfilms
Grooms attire @alandavidcustomsuits
Groomsmen attire @blacklapelweddings _
Jewelry @cartier @doamore
Harpist @stephanie_harps
LED light @towerproductionsnyc
Custom Aisle & chuppah @fusionlightingproductions
On a rainy Saturday in late May, Malissa and Stephen were married in the rustic, romantic landscape of Hayfield in the Catskills of New York. Known for its rolling hills backdrop and gorgeous barns, Hayfield is perfectly picturesque, even on the rainiest of days.
With rain threatening the forecast, the couple along with wedding planner, Kate from A Charmed Affair, made the call to transform their outdoor ceremony into an indoor one. The garden-inspired florals were quickly rearranged inside one of the two majestic barns that Hayfield has on their venue. Family and friends filled the cozy interior. Shortly after, music started to play and Malissa walked down the aisle in her Jimmy Choo shoes, wearing a Martina Liana wedding dress that she had customized at Crystal Bridal Boutique. She was accompanied by both her mother and father. The aisle was lined with a beautiful assortment of warm colors, thanks to Flower Blossom Design. Malissa passed colors of coral, blush, ivory and dusty rose on her way to meet Stephen and officiant, Pastor Eric Ntim. The bridesmaids wore a similar assortment of colors to match the garden color-palette, with their dresses from Fame and Partners.
Just like a fairy-tale, as the couple was looking into each other’s eyes, getting ready to say “I do,” the sun started to peek out. The ceremony concluded with a kiss and all 175 guests exited the floral-lined barn doors and entered the grassy landscape, on their way to the reception. Here they were met with an abundance of floral arrangements and chic decor. Surrounded by roses, peonies, snapdragons, freesias, candles and fruit, the sweetheart table stole the show.
As the sun began to set, The Hook Club started to perform and the newlyweds began to dance the night away, for the first time together as husband and wife. Even with the last minute changes and unpredictable weather patterns, Malissa and Stephen smiled through it all. They weren’t going to let anything stop them from having their perfect day – and it truly was perfect.
This wedding was featured on Martha Steward Weddings and you can see the full feature here!
