We’re only days away from New York State issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples and whether you’re from New York or not, you may be overwhelmed with your choice of where to wed. (For our step-by-step instructions how to wed in New York, click here.) From the Big Apple to Niagara Falls the Empire State offers couples a myriad of locations from historic homes to rustic settings to picturesque vineyards. Below are some of the state’s best sites to say “I do.”
Disclaimer: None of the following websites or publications vet their vendors for their gay-friendliness, and we can’t vouch for them on that level. For a marketplace of proud gay-friendly wedding vendors in New York, please visit our Local Resources section here.
New York City: The five boroughs can offer couples pretty much any type of wedding venue. There are hotel ballrooms—grand and ornate to modern and sleek—lofts, which allow you to create a custom space, public parks and gardens and a number restaurants from fine to funky that will allow couples to book their private dining rooms for a wedding ceremony and reception. A thorough guide to finding a wedding venue in New York City is New York Magazine’s Wedding Issue and online directory, complete with pretty much any and every location (as well as vendor) you can think of.
The Hamptons: Suffolk County’s No. 1 vacation spot offers brides and grooms a number of unique locations including vineyards on the North Fork and beaches on the East End. Couples can also rent a house for a week and, with the owner’s permission, get married in the backyard. Pick up a copy of the local bridal magazine WellWed The Hamptons for vendor information on getting hitched out east.
Hudson Valley: Looking for a grand estate for your wedding venue à la Chelsea Clinton? Duchess County has some of New York’s grandest homes, which were created for the millionaires of the Gilded Age including the Astors and Vanderbilts. Many of the homes have beautiful outdoor space with views overlooking the Hudson River. Hudson Valley Magazine has a weddings section on its website, which includes planning and style advice for couples getting hitched in the area.
Central New York: For a rustic of fall setting, Central New York offers couples a wide variety of both indoor and outdoor locations in and around the Finger Lakes as well as urban centers, such as Syracuse. Couples planning a nature-inspired wedding can choose backdrops that include country hills, gorges, lakes and waterfalls. Your color palette for a September through November wedding is guaranteed to include reds, oranges, yellows and golds, and the fall foliage is sure to be a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos. For information on getting married, including a vendor directory, in this area check out CNYWeddings.com.
Saratoga Springs, NY: Whether or not you and your fiancé enjoy a trip to the races Saratoga Springs is a great wedding destination. Old homes, ballrooms and country clubs are the ideal setting for any wedding style. For a destination wedding, Saratoga, as well as nearby towns such as Lake George, are ideal for a long weekend away. Reserve guests’ rooms at charming bed and breakfasts, and leave a welcome guide that includes a listing of some of the fine dining establishments, fun activities and sightseeing your guests are sure to enjoy. For vendor listings and planning advice, visit ASaratogaWedding.com.
Anne Chertoff is the author of The Wedding Organizer available at russellandhazel.com.
Photo: Paige and Kim from Equally Wed’s Summer 2011 issue, photography by Erinn J. Hale
