Post # 1
Member
480 posts
Helper bee
Hello bees,
A little bit about my situation: my SO proposed in an informal way before he left on deployment, we are buying a ring and announcing our official engagement after he returns home. In the meantime, he and I discussed getting a head start on searching for venues with the goal of a Fall 2018 wedding. We both work full-time but we have a limited budget since we have to pay for everything ourselves (about $10-15k, not including rings and dress).
Here is what I’ve put together so far, I have 15 listed venues. Not every option is viable for us but I thought I’d share it in case it was helpful to anyone else! https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xN9W944fqzzj97epAKmrLhhSHE8u9mWUPZvRJa4b9aE/edit?usp=sharing
I wanted to ask you lovely ladies at the bee where you got married, or which venues you looked into? We are both NYC natives and prefer to do something in the city, but it’s very expensive so anywhere reasonably near NYC is ok too. Any advice or hidden venue gems you could share with me would be greatly appreciated! We are planning for about 60 people, and are fine with a Sunday afternoon wedding to save on costs.
Post # 2
Member
1411 posts
Bumble bee
I don’t actually see any venues on that list that would fit your budget of 10k. The reception should be about 50% of your budget and those you have listed don’t fall under that.
Not trying to be a downer, but I just had my wedding in NYC and everything is very expensive, as are the TAXES! The taxes kill you.
I know people who have done an informal ceremony in CP up around 105th (the part you need a permit for to take pictures in – the name is escaping me!!) with a brunch following or a cocktail hour(s) if it’s from 3-5. That would probably fit nicely into your budget!!
Post # 3
Member
89 posts
Worker bee
I do not know the cost but have you tried sunset terrace chelsea piers? My stepsister was married on a Sunday there. If you do not mind walking around a hockey rink, you will be rewarded with a river view for the ceremony and reception.
Post # 4
Member
580 posts
Busy bee
The Foundry in Long Island City you can rent the smaller space (The Greenhouse), it allows 120 for ceremony, dancing or cocktails and 75 people for a seated dinner. If you do want your ceremony / reception there you can always also rent the terrace for a cocktail hour while they flip the space. There is also the Albra Room http://www.thefoundry.info/thealbraroom/ that seats 70 people.
I don’t have rates for 2018 but for 2017 the Greenhouse is 2K, and the terrace is 1K. I don’t have rates for the Albra Room.
Look at The Metropolitan Building (also Long Island City). You can get a whole floor for about 6K, the price is discounted if you use their caterer.
The Green Building in Brooklyn (not sure if this is too big?)
There’s a place called Blend on the Water in LIC I have heard of.
I tried searching on StyleMePretty for venues in Brooklyn and found a place in Williamsburg called Aurora.
Good luck! (Love your spreadsheet!)
Post # 5
Member
480 posts
Helper bee
knickergold : I know, I did note in my OP that many of these venues listed are outside of my budget, but I saved the research anyway to share with other brides that may find it useful. That aside, the venues I am looking at personally include catering and drinks, as well as the ceremony (which has about a $300 fee at the most expensive one). I already have officiant, photographer, MUA, rings, and DJ covered outside of my budget. I’m not sure what I would need another 50% of the 10-15k for? I hope I’m not missing something huge….!
nowthisistaken : Thank you! I did check out the Foundry but it’s not for me, I don’t like the industrial style venues. I will check out the others you recommended!
Post # 6
Member
3 posts
Wannabee
daxsymbiote : If you need an affordable caterer, feel free to message me. I know of a very good and affordable one located in the Bronx who can travel to your venue.