About New York
New York City, known as the Big Apple or The City That Never Sleeps, is one of the most iconic cities in the world. Steeped in history and culture, New York has been a melting pot of many different cultures. It became a major trading port after its founding in 1624 by Dutch settlers and later developed into a critical commercial center that drove much of America’s development during colonial times. Today, New York enjoys a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is abundant throughout all months with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.
New York City is a magical place for weddings; backyard weddings are no exception. So, when it comes to backyard celebrations in New York, there is no shortage of options — whether you’re searching for a farmhouse surrounded by lush green fields or a historic estate with grandeur-filled gazebos. Couples are able to customize every detail from the adornments to the food menu for a completely personalized experience. Well, there is something undeniably magical about getting married in one of the most iconic cities on Earth.
Backyard Wedding Options in New York
- Custom Clothing
Custom clothing is a great option for a backyard wedding. Well, it’s a great way to make sure that both the bride and groom look their absolute best. From custom-made suits or gowns to accessories like shoes, ties, and handkerchiefs, such ideas can put the gorgeous finishing touches on any wedding look.
- Jewelry
Of course, jewelry is an important part of accessories for a wedding. Whether it’s for the bride or bridesmaids, gems can tie together any wedding ensemble. Choosing unique pieces that match or contrast with the dress can create eye-catching looks while adding an extra level of sophistication.
- Custom Cakes
A customized cake is a must-have at any wedding. Not only does it add to the decor of the event, but also assures that each guest gets their own personalized piece of dessert. Couples can select from various flavors and styles such as fondant cakes, layered cakes, cupcakes, and more to discover the fitting choice for their special day.
- Bartenders
Bartenders are an integral part of any backyard wedding celebration. They not only provide guests with beverages but also check that everyone has an enjoyable time throughout the night. With experienced professionals on board, lovebirds may rest assured knowing their favorite cocktails will be served flawlessly and with flair.
Backyard Wedding Vendors in New York
- About The Stitch
Unlike other fashion-centered businesses, About The Stitch doesn’t copy the latest trends. Instead, the team centers its focus on developing customers' unique personal styles. These professionals in the fashion industry have collaborated with esteemed designers, talented stylists, and numerous private clients for over two decades. Specializing in wedding alterations for both gowns and tuxedos, these artists also offer services such as recutting, restyling, pattern-making, and sample-making for wholesale needs.
- Raineri Jewelers
When it comes to jewelry, customization is key. That's where Raineri Jewelers comes in — owned by a master jeweler and model maker with expertise in creating one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the individual tastes of each and every customer. Whether it's an engagement ring that needs personalization or a completely new design that's been dreamed up in someone's head, Raineri Jewelers has the skill and experience to make it a reality. With a hand-made wax mold created for approval, every detail is carefully crafted and honed to perfection.
- A Simple Cake
With A Simple Cake, Nicolle Lugo is on a mission to provide beautiful, delicious, and affordable cakes for your wedding day. She creates custom cakes full of nostalgia for the clients as well as the option to consult and create a design from scratch. She also offers small taste tests for those who are unsure of which flavor to go with finally. She is proud to be a talented baker that provides gorgeous wedding cakes of the highest quality while still maintaining an affordable price for her work.
Pros and Cons of Backyard Wedding Venues in New York
While it is undoubtedly an attractive option, there are some aspects of backyard weddings that one should consider before making the decision to have one.
Advantages
- Backyard weddings typically cost much less than renting out a traditional venue, as they require less planning and don't come with additional fees such as catering or furniture rental.
- With a backyard wedding, you have complete freedom to pick the look and feel you want for your special day. From ornamentations to seating arrangements, you can design your wedding to fit your style.
- Such occasions usually involve fewer people than in larger venues, making it easier for couples to share meaningful moments with their guests and produce lasting memories.
Disadvantages
- It can be unpredictable in New York, making outdoor weddings risky due to potential rain or snowfall. So consider renting an external tent or pavilion if available.
- Depending on where you live in New York City, there may be certain directives you must adhere to when having a backyard wedding such as noise levels and permit requirements.
- Backyards tend to be smaller than traditional venues, meaning that fewer guests may attend the wedding which could leave some family members or friends feeling left out.
Tips on How to Organize Backyard Wedding Venues in New York
Organizing a wedding in a backyard can be a unique and enjoyable experience for the couple and their guests. Here are some tips on how to make sure your big day goes off without a hitch:
- You will need to obtain authorizations from both the city or town you’re hosting in and from your homeowner’s association (if applicable). Be sure to research what specific permits you need to have prepared before launching full-force into your event plan.
- As with any large-scale event planning endeavor, selecting reliable vendors that fit within your budget is an essential part of organizing a successful backyard wedding. From caterers to florists to DJs, research local options beforehand to make sure you feel comfortable working with them.
- It may seem like a given but small details such as lighting fixtures or restroom facilities can have an impact on the overall success of the celebration. Don’t forget about important items like portable toilets or even bug repellant.
- Finally, make certain you have liability insurance coverage for potential damages during the reception just in case something goes wrong during the party — whether it's caused by guests or vendors — so that no one has anything serious financial repercussions from attending your special day.
Famous Locations in New York
- The Sphere
Fritz Koenig's "The Sphere" was initially intended as a representation of harmony among nations when it was created. It was situated between the Twin Towers in Manhattan in 1971, meant to inspire and encourage peaceful world trade. The sculpture took inspiration from the Kaaba at the Grand Mosque of Mecca, making it a beautiful cultural blend. After the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, the sphere remained mostly intact and became a symbol of resilience. The creation was stored at JFK Airport, and now, years later has a new home at Liberty Park, where it can continue to inspire visitors with its message of hope and peace.
- Ebony G. Patterson Exhibit
Gardens can be a fickle thing. We're all tempted to ooh and aah at the bright, blooming plants, but quickly lose interest once the weather turns cold and dormancy sets in. But artist Ebony G. Patterson sees the entire lifecycle of plants as something worth exploring. Her new exhibition at the New York Botanical Garden is a stunning array of iridescent vultures, glass recreations of extinct plants, and collages inspired by gardening books. She investigates how molting, shedding, and decay can be important means of healing and rejuvenation. While visually stunning, her sculptures also force us to confront the complicated and even ugly entanglements of colonialism, race, and gender that the natural world reflects back to us.
- McCarren Park
McCarren Park in Brooklyn is an oasis of green space that beckons to anyone searching for a little sunshine and a lot of fun. Spreading out over 36 lush acres, this place bustles with the energy of families, kids, and locals alike. Whether you're into kickball, soccer, basketball, or baseball, McCarren Park has your activity needs covered. When the heat rises and the sun beats down, the McCarren Park Pool and Play Center is where you want to be. An outdoor pool oasis in the heart of the town, it's a great place to cool off and recharge.