Where to Celebrate After Your NYC City Hall Elopement
Just because you’re planning your NYC City Hall ceremony, doesn’t mean you don’t want to celebrate after with your nearest & dearest. If you’re still in the ceremony planning phase, I wrote a post about what to do here!
Often, couples want to keep the ceremony portion of their wedding extremely intimate, but want to open the reception to a larger group. It’s totally ok to want both!
It can be overwhelming to figure out where to go and what to do, especially when your ceremony is in a different location than your reception.
Before you start planning, keep in mind you cannot make an appointment at City Hall. If you’re trying for a Thursday or Friday ceremony, it’s best to hold your reception at night in case you end up waiting a long time at City Hall. Mornings on Mondays-Wednesdays tend to be quieter, so you could get away with a post-ceremony brunch or lunch!
Either way, build in some time with your photographer for portraits of just the two of you, and your immediate family (if they’ll be present). I usually suggest an hour to an hour and a half to take photos and get to your location.
Now, let’s talk celebrating!
Venues Within Walking Distance
Nom Wah Tea Parlor - This is a NY establishment dating back to 1920, offering awesome dim sum. For larger groups, they’ll put together a pre-fixe menu. Bonus: you can even buy out the whole restaurant.
Temple Court - Tom Colicchio’s restaurant in the Beekman Hotel has several options for different size groups. The rooms almost have an indoor courtyard feel with lots of exposed brick.
Tiny’s and the Bar Upstairs - This townhouse style venue has soft pink accents throughout, making it a super romantic option.
Gran Morisi - If you’re searching for a laidback, shared plates type of reception, Gran Morisi has what you’re looking for. They can accommodate up to 125 people in their private space, so feel free to bring your entire crew.
Parm - Classic old school Italian aesthetic makes it a great choice for couples looking to let the venue decor speak for itself.
Venues Within a Short Drive
Public Kitchen - Looking for an outdoor space in the heart of Manhattan? The Bowery Garden at Public is as romantic and lush as it gets.
City Vineyard - Overlooking the Hudson River, you have your choice of several outdoor spaces (with indoor as well!) to enjoy a seafood forward affair.
Egg Shop - If you are planning on brunch or lunch (or even breakfast for dinner!?) the Egg Shop is a really fun idea.
Root and Bone - For a super intimate group (under 50 people), treat your guests to comfort food and great cocktails.
Tacombi - Taco fans will love the fun and retro vibe (hello, old VW bus) of the Nolita location.
If you are planning a reception after your City Hall ceremony and are worried about how the space will get ready, a wedding planner (like me!) can help.