Ditching big wedding plans and opting to elope became more of a trend during early Covid days, and it has since evolved. It’s clearly here to stay. And what better place to elope than New York City? Picture this: a short, sweet Bethesda Terrace Central Park wedding ceremony, photos by the lake, and then going to for a sit down dinner reception. Is there a more ideal scenario?
That’s just what Avery and Michael did, and the photos speak for themselves.
Getting ready at The Beekman Hotel
The Beekman Hotel is an iconic structure in downtown Manhattan, with the most beautiful and unique architecture. Surrounded by some of NYC’s most cherished attractions and landmarks, it’s a no-brainer why The Beekman is the perfect place to kick off the start of your Central Park wedding day.
(Now, you can’t exactly walk from The Beekman to Central Park, so make sure to build travel time into your wedding day schedule.)
Every single nook & cranny of The Beekman is so charming, making it a great location for wedding day getting ready photos. I would recommend taking advantage of as much time here as possible, and in as many spots as the staff allows you to photograph in.
WHERE TO TAKE CENTRAL PARK WEDDING PHOTOS
No matter the season, Central Park is an idyllic place for wedding photos.
First, the Central Park wedding ceremony at Bethesda Terrace. In addition to being a great plan B for rain — there is a covered area — its scenery is incredible. During the warmer months, there is no shortage of greenery and the water reflects the skyline. In the cooler months, the foliage is multicolored, and the lake freezes over. It’s magical.
Then, a short 5 minute walk away is Bow Bridge. This is an iconic spot. The buildings sparkle at night, the lake reflects the incredible scenery, and the sunsets from that spot are just beautiful. It’s a must-see/must-photograph spot.
Crane Club Wedding Reception
After a short and sweet Central Park wedding ceremony, A+M held their 25 person dinner reception at Crane Club restaurant. I’d never been here before, but just one time was enough to convince me: you need to eat here. I don’t care if you’re not planning on having a wedding there, just go and experience the food. It is incredibly prepared, and the staff is so accommodating and sweet.
Avery and Michael did not work with a planner, so in putting together their central park wedding day, they also fully planned the reception themselves. Avery even rush-ordered red candles for the table, in order to create the moody dinner reception of her dreams.
