Top Five Luxury Wedding Venues in NYC
As a wedding videographer in New York City, I've had the privilege of capturing countless love stories in some of the most spectacular venues our city has to offer. Today, I want to share my intimate knowledge of what I consider to be the five most luxurious wedding venues in NYC. These aren't just spaces – they're architectural masterpieces that serve as the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Tribeca Rooftop
When couples ask me about venues that offer a contemporary NYC experience, Tribeca Rooftop is always at the top of my list. Having filmed numerous weddings here since its recent renovation, I can tell you that the 29,000 square feet of space has been transformed into something truly magnificent.
What makes this venue particularly special from a videographer's perspective is the natural light that floods through the space and the breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The newly installed 60-foot wrap-around quartz bar creates an impressive focal point, while the 2,000-square-foot dance floor offers plenty of space for those reception moments I love to capture.
One of my favorite features is the dual indoor-outdoor space configuration. The ability to film both rooftop ceremonies with the city as a backdrop and move seamlessly into the elegant interior space gives me incredible creative flexibility. The high ceilings and pin spot lighting system allow for dramatic shots that really bring wedding films to life.
The New York Public Library
There's something magical about filming at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library. As someone who's documented numerous celebrations here, I can tell you that this venue transforms every wedding into a scene straight out of a classic New York movie.
The Astor Hall, with its capacity for 750 guests, provides an absolutely stunning entrance sequence. The sweeping marble staircase creates one of those unforgettable moments that I always make sure to capture. But my personal favorite space has to be the Celeste Bartos Forum, which can accommodate 500 guests. The glass ceiling and cast-iron architecture create incredible lighting conditions that make for absolutely stunning footage.
What makes the Library particularly special is how each room has its own distinct character. From the McGraw Rotunda to the Wachenheim Trustees Room, every space tells its own story while maintaining that quintessential New York grandeur.
Rainbow Room
Perched atop Rockefeller Center, the Rainbow Room represents the pinnacle of New York City elegance. As someone who's filmed here numerous times, I can tell you that the 4,464 square feet of space, with its 18-foot ceilings, provides an incredible canvas for wedding cinematography.
What truly sets this venue apart is its rich history combined with modern luxury. Since its opening in 1934, it has hosted everything from presidential dinners to Hollywood celebrations. The space can accommodate 300 guests for a reception and seated dinner, but what really makes it special is how the city lights create a natural backdrop through the massive windows as day turns to night.
From a filmmaker's perspective, the theatrical lighting and the way it plays off the crystal elements in the space creates pure magic. The rotating dance floor (yes, it actually rotates!) adds an extra element of wow-factor that always looks incredible on film.
Check out some of my films:
Nick & Ashley
Jacqueline & Marshall
Monique & Diran
Jamie & Charlie
The Pierre
The Pierre holds a special place in my heart as a wedding videographer. This Fifth Avenue landmark, with its 18,000 square feet of event space, offers some of the most sophisticated backdrops in the city. The Grand Ballroom, which can host up to 450 seated guests, features architectural details that make every frame look like a work of art.
What I particularly love about filming at The Pierre is the variety of spaces available. The Cotillion Ballroom, with its views of Central Park, provides an intimate setting for ceremonies, while the Rotunda, with its stunning murals, creates perfect moments for couple portraits and detail shots.
Four Seasons Hotel New York
The I.M. Pei-designed Four Seasons represents the height of modern luxury. As someone who's filmed countless weddings here, I can tell you that the FIFTY7 space, with its 3,116 square feet, provides an incredible setting for both ceremonies and receptions.
What makes this venue particularly special is its location on "Billionaires' Row" and the amazing views it offers. The 11th-floor terrace creates incredible opportunities for sunset shots of the Manhattan skyline, while the interior spaces, with their soaring ceilings and modern design elements, provide a sophisticated backdrop for reception footage.
Check out my favorite venues in Maine, Connecticut, Cape Cod, and Boston.
Quick Recap
Tribeca Rooftop
Total space: 29,000 sq ft
Dance floor: 2,000 sq ft
New York Public Library (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building)
Astor Hall: 750 reception / 250 seated
Celeste Bartos Forum: 500 reception / 425 seated
Edna Barnes Salomon Room: 325 reception / 300 seated
McGraw Rotunda: 300 reception / 150 seated
Wachenheim Trustees Room: 125 reception / 110 seated
Celeste Auditorium: 177 seated
Rainbow Room
Total space: 4,464 sq ft
Reception only: 350 guests
Reception & Seated: 300 guests
Dinner & Dancing: 250 guests
Theater-style: 350 guests
The Pierre
Grand Ballroom: 450 seated / 800 standing
Cotillion Ballroom: 350 seated / 500 standing
Pre-Function Room: 110 seated / 150 standing
Rotunda: 50 seated / 100 standing
Total event space: 18,000 sq ft
Four Seasons Hotel New York
FIFTY7 (total): 270 reception
FIFTY7 Center: 130 banquet
FIFTY7 East: 80 banquet / 110 reception
FIFTY7 West: 120 banquet / 120 reception
Terrace Boardrooms: Each can accommodate 20-30 guests
As a wedding videographer, I believe these venues represent the very best of what New York City has to offer. Each has its own unique character and charm, but they all share one common thread: they provide an unforgettable setting for one of life's most important moments.
Whether you're dreaming of a classic New York wedding at The Pierre, a modern celebration at Tribeca Rooftop, or a sophisticated soirée at the Rainbow Room, these venues offer something truly special. As someone who's had the privilege of capturing countless weddings at each of these locations, I can tell you that they don't just serve as backgrounds – they become part of your love story.
Remember, while these venues are undoubtedly stunning, what makes them truly magical is the love and joy they contain on your special day. As your videographer, my job is to capture not just the grandeur of these spaces, but the intimate moments and emotions that make your wedding uniquely yours.
