No one associates New York City with anything “cheap.” Yet, if you’re planning a wedding on a budget in the New York City area and looking for NYC wedding venues, here are 10 options that won’t break the bank. Each of these venues can be rented for or have packages starting for less than $10,000.
Antun’s
96-43 Springfield Boulevard Queens Village, NY 11429
Ideal for wedding parties of 100-150, this venue has hosted wedding parties for generations. Its affordability comes in the way of all the extras thrown in for free — like a wedding coordinator, no reception fee, and free parking. Wedding Spot reports that you can expect to pay around $10k for a 100 person wedding.
Grand Oaks
200 Huguenot Avenue Staten Island, NY 10312
Formerly known as the South-Shore Country Club, the Grand Oaks Country Club has won Manhattan’s Best of Bridal two years’ running. Overlooks the beautifully landscaped golf course, this venue can accommodate receptions for up to 1500 guests. They cater to all ethnic groups and specialize in kosher weddings. The average wedding and reception of 100 guests is estimated to begin at $10k.
The Otto Kahn & James Burden Mansions
1-7 East 91st Street New York, NY 10128
Elegant, intimate and full of historical charm, the mansions are run by a nonprofit and consider event rentals on a case by case basis. It’s estimated that events start at $9-10k. Contact Phone: (212) 722-4745 ext. 112 or email info@burdenkahnmansion.org. The courtyard overlooks Central Park and comfortably holds 100 guests, and this open-air location may be rented in addition to either mansion.
One Banquet Hall – Queens
181-08 Union Turnpike Fresh Meadows, NY 11366
A step away from the hustle and bustle, One Banquet Hall is an affordable option for weddings of different sizes. With several rooms to choose from for 80 to 230 people, amenities at this venue include coat check, dressing rooms, and a spacious dancing floor. They also provide catering and beverage services. The package includes all place settings, silverware, stemware and flatware. It also offers a selection of table linens in multiple colors. Expect to pay around $7-$14k for a wedding of 100 guests.
The Aurora Gallery
35-18 37th Street, 2nd Floor, Long Island City, NY 11101
917.745.0003 and info@theauroragallery.com
Reviews say this venue won’t price gouge or upsell you like some other NYC venues. Rental rates for private events depend on date, time, number of guests, etc. but start at $1,950 for non-wedding events with 50 guests or less, on A Sunday and end by 5pm (to give you an idea). They can accommodate up to 100 guests with a dance floor. Rentals can include tables, chairs, lounge furniture, house decorations or art, projector, sound system, bartender, lighting options, staff and setup and breakdown time.
Bay Ridge Manor – Brooklyn
476 76th Street Brooklyn, NY 11209
With a 40 year track record of superior service and delectable cuisine, you can’t go wrong with this Brooklyn gem, which received a renovation in 2013. Call 718-748-8855 or bayridgemanor@aol.com for details and pricing. But like the other venues listed in this guide, expect to pay around $10k for a wedding with an average of 100 guests.
Faculty House, Columbia University – Upper Manhattan
64 Morningside Drive, New York, NY
(212) 854-1200
This surprising venue is a beacon of elegance and class. From their courtyard to the restored first-floor reception area, this venue features original terrazzo floors and a marble staircase idea for guests up to 60. Casual occasions are idea for the second floor, which is designed for versatility. The third floor works as a formal catering space and can accommodate up to 250 guests for dinner and dancing. The fourth floor offers pure drama with a vaulted ceiling and arched windows overlooking the outdoor terrace and Manhattan’s glittering skyline. Call for pricing and tours: 212.854.1200 or email fachouse@columbia.edu.
First Unitarian Universalist Congregational Society – Brooklyn
48 Monroe Pl., Brooklyn, NY 11201
Touted as “the traditional venue for the non-traditional couple,” First Unitarian Universalist Congregational Society has beautiful facilities for an amazingly affordable price. Rental fee for a sanctuary ceremony for up to 400 people is $2,000 — and they have two other rooms as options for even less. Minister’s fees start at $800 (regardless of the size of the ceremony) and are negotiated directly with the minister. The church’s fee includes ceremony time, rehearsal time, a gratuity for custodial staff and use of pianos or pipe organ. Email the Ceremonies Coordinator to set up an appointment to get more details: nicole@fuub.org.
Side note: getting married in a traditional church or temple will save you money over a wedding venue in the city. Click here for more churches and temples in the NYC area.
Central Park: Summit Rock – Manhattan
85th Street and Central Park West New York, NY 10021 Using a wedding planning service like A Central Park Wedding, packages begin at $3,250. Check out the rave reviews here.
Other NYC wedding venues: Consider getting married in a beautiful outdoor garden. This piece rounds up 12 city gardens where couples can say “I do,” including one featured on “Sex and the City.”