New York recently became the sixth and largest state to legalize gay marriage. This historic occasion is likely to turn the Big Apple into a hot spot wedding destination for same-sex couples across the country, and we thought it would be fitting to post some of the city's best places to say "I do." Take a look at our top wedding hotel picks below.
The Plaza
For a romantic, iconic wedding locale, the Plaza is hard to beat. The in-house wedding planner, Emily Reifel, is the best of the best, and can arrange everything from hair and makeup, to photographers, to florists (and more). And after a recent multi-million-dollar renovation, the Grand Ballroom Foyer is as grand as ever. The 24-hour butler service ensures that couples feel pampered post I-dos: the butler can unpack luggage, stock the room’s private bar, and draw baths.
The St. Regis New York
This iconic luxury property is rivaled only by The Plaza, and its impressive service will ensure that everyone feels pampered, from the first planning stages to the end of the reception. (To give you an idea: At the wedding dinner, there are 10 waiters to every guest.) The 16,000 square feet of event space (each of the multiple halls can fit up to 200 guests) and the romantic, old-world decor (elegant chandeliers and the hotel’s famous “cloud-dabbled” ceiling) make this a perennial favorite for New York’s elite.
Mandarin Oriental
If you’ve always pictured yourself saying “I do” while looking out over a scenic New York skyline, Mandarin Oriental New York — which towers 54 stories above Central Park — might have your ideal venue: Its halls are large enough to fit about 700 people and floor-to-ceiling windows line the walls. And the wedding packages rock. Couples get a complimentary suite with a view, a horse-drawn carriage ride, and even fireworks (if you want them, that is).
The New York Palace
One of New York’s most visibly stunning hotels, the New York Palace is the spot for an extravagant, slightly over-the-top wedding. Like anywhere in Manhattan, the prices are steep — from $225 to $450 per person. But, for the one-time fee, you’re getting just about everything: a space, decorations, a premium open bar for the length of the reception (as well as wine and champagne for the dinner), passed hors d’oeuvres, a personally designed cake, as well as buffet stations or a three- or four-course dinner (kids’, kosher, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus available upon request). The hotel also provides a gorgeous Royal Suite for the newlyweds.
Gramercy Park Hotel
The Roof Club and Garden at the uber-chic Gramercy Park Hotel is the ideal spot for a wedding. With sweeping views of the city and a retractable roof for summer months, the venue can accommodate up to 120 guests for a ceremony, seated dinner, and a reception with dancing. Though the hotel does not allow a live band to perform, the special events team can recommend DJs at several price points. And you can rest assured that you’ve made a star-approved choice — many celebrities frequent the Roof Club, and Humphrey Bogart got married at the hotel in 1926.
The Pierre
Hosting a wedding almost once a week, The Pierre has extensive experience with nuptials. This iconic hotel offers six lavish venues for the ceremony and reception — including the Salon, complete with rotunda and trompe de l’oeil paintings, where Ramona Singer of Real Housewives fame renewed her vows on camera. But be prepared to pay a hefty fee for the top-notch accommodations and exceptional white-glove service, because weddings at The Pierre do not come cheap.
Four Seasons New York
Although known for its business-friendly atmosphere and location, the Four Seasons New York offers several packages for those looking to wed in the sleek and stylish Midtown hotel. Whether engaged couples opt for the “classic elegance” or “black tie” package, the on-site wedding professional will coordinate every detail – from music and flowers selections to day-off in-room spa treatments.
The Peninsula New York
If you’re planning an opulent wedding, The Peninsula New York may be just the venue you’re looking for – nearly every surface of the hotel is gilded, coated in marble, or flourished with something French. An on-site consultant will help you plan your one-of-a-kind nuptials or you can opt for the wedding package, which includes a one-night stay for the newlyweds in the bridal suite – and a one-night stay on the couple’s one-year anniversary!
Jane Reynolds contributed to this article.
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