Ask LIWeddings

Several Long Island wedding venues allow late-night after-parties on-site, though policies vary depending on the location. Here are a few options to consider:

1. The Allegria Hotel (Long Beach, NY)

Offers oceanfront ballrooms and rooftop spaces.
Late-night after-party options at their lounge or rooftop.

2. Solé East (Montauk, NY)

Known for its relaxed, bohemian vibe.
Late-night celebrations around fire pits or the pool area.

3. The Vineyards at Aquebogue (Aquebogue, NY)

Some packages allow extended events.
Private and secluded, making noise restrictions more flexible.

4. Westbury Manor (Westbury, NY)

Offers an on-site pub for post-reception gatherings.
Private gardens and indoor spaces for extended celebrations.

5. Flowerfield (St. James, NY)

Offers one event at a time, allowing flexible timelines.
Options for extended receptions depending on the package.

If you're considering a late-night after-party, check with the venue about noise restrictions, liquor service cut-off times, and additional fees for extended hours.

Yes! Long Island has several wedding venues that allow a grand entrance by boat or horse-drawn carriage. Here are some great options:

By Boat:

• Windows on the Lake (Ronkonkoma, NY) – This waterfront venue offers the option to arrive by boat, making for a stunning entrance.

• The Boathouse Shelter Island (Shelter Island, NY) – A charming and exclusive venue where a boat arrival adds to the nautical ambiance.

• The Vineyards at Aquebogue (Aquebogue, NY) – While primarily known for its vineyards, some couples have incorporated nearby water access for unique entrances.

By Horse-Drawn Carriage:

• Flowerfield (St. James, NY) – With its lush gardens and scenic grounds, this venue is ideal for a grand carriage entrance.

• Westbury Manor (Westbury, NY) – The historic estate setting is perfect for an elegant horse-drawn carriage arrival.

• Old Field Club (Setauket, NY) – This venue combines rustic charm with waterfront elegance, making a carriage entrance truly magical.

Popular Long Island Wedding Trends This Year

Long Island weddings are embracing new trends while keeping timeless traditions alive. Here are some of the biggest wedding trends this year:

1. Outdoor & Waterfront Venues

Long Island’s scenic coastlines make outdoor weddings more popular than ever. Venues like The Vineyards at Aquebogue, Flowerfield, and Westbury Manor offer breathtaking backdrops for ceremonies and receptions.

2. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Weddings

Couples are choosing venues and vendors that prioritize sustainability. Viana Hotel & Spa, known for its eco-friendly practices, and floral designers like Jack & Rose who use locally sourced flowers, are great choices for a green wedding.

3. Non-Traditional Wedding Attire

Brides are opting for colorful wedding dresses, jumpsuits, or two-piece gowns instead of traditional white. Bridal boutiques like Bridal Reflections and Fantasia Bridal Center & Boutique offer a range of styles to fit every vision.

4. Interactive Entertainment

Wedding entertainment is going beyond DJs and live bands. Couples are adding elements like photo booths, live painters, 360-degree video booths, and cold spark fountains to create unforgettable guest experiences. Popular entertainment companies like HI DEF DJ, Paparazzi Entertainment, and Genesis Events provide customized options.

5. Micro Weddings & Weekend-Long Celebrations

Some couples are opting for intimate weddings with under 50 guests, while others are planning multi-day events with welcome parties and post-wedding brunches at venues like The Bellport Inn and The Allegria Hotel.

6. Statement Floral Installations

Lush, dramatic floral designs are a top trend, including floral arches, hanging installations, and tablescapes filled with seasonal blooms. Mattituck Florist, Wicks Florist, and Jack & Rose are known for their stunning floral artistry.

7. Unique Food & Beverage Experiences

Beyond traditional catering, couples are choosing customizable food stations, signature cocktails, and late-night snacks like mini tacos, gourmet donuts, or espresso martini bars. Venues like Tellers: An American Chophouse and Windows on the Lake offer gourmet dining experiences.

8. Trolley & Vintage Car Arrivals

Transportation is becoming a statement piece, with NY Trolley Co. offering vintage trolleys and North Country Limousine providing classic Rolls Royce arrivals for a grand entrance.

Long Island weddings continue to evolve with personal touches and creative elements that make each celebration truly unique. What trend are you most excited about for your big day?

For a beautiful beachside wedding on Long Island, here are some of the best venues that offer stunning waterfront views and a picturesque setting:

1. Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa - Located at the eastern tip of Long Island, this luxury resort offers breathtaking ocean views and a beautiful beachside location for your wedding ceremony and reception. The resort provides both indoor and outdoor options, making it a great choice for a memorable beachfront celebration.

2. The Waterfront at the Hyatt Regency Long Island - This venue offers a stunning location on the Great South Bay, with views of the water and a private beach for ceremonies. The venue features elegant indoor spaces with large windows that let in natural light and showcase the waterfront views.

3. Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center & Private Beach - For a more intimate beach wedding experience, this venue offers a private beach for ceremonies with the option to have the reception in their scenic indoor space. The beachfront location is perfect for couples looking to exchange vows with the sound of waves in the background.

4. The Sands at Atlantic Beach - This upscale venue offers a unique location right on the beach. With a spacious event space and spectacular ocean views, The Sands provides an elegant yet laid-back vibe for your wedding day, perfect for those who love the beach.

5. The Montauk Beach House - Located in the heart of Montauk, this venue offers a chic, rustic vibe with a close proximity to the beach. Its stylish yet laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed beachside wedding with the ocean as a backdrop.

6. Sunset Beach - Situated on Shelter Island, Sunset Beach offers a serene and romantic setting for a beach wedding. With its rustic charm and views of the Long Island Sound, it's a perfect spot for couples looking for a peaceful, intimate celebration.

These venues combine natural beauty, waterfront views, and unique settings, making them ideal choices for couples who want a beachside wedding on Long Island. Please contact them to confirm availability.

Yes, sending wedding invitations electronically is completely acceptable, especially in today’s digital age. Many couples opt for e-invites because they are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and convenient. Digital invitations also allow for quick RSVP tracking and easy communication with guests.  However, if you're having a formal or traditional wedding, paper invitations may still be expected, especially for older guests or more traditional families. A good compromise is to send formal invitations to key guests while using electronic invites for friends or less formal attendees.

Here are some great platforms for sending electronic wedding invitations:

Free & Paid Options:

1. Paperless Post – Offers elegant digital invitations with customizable designs that mimic traditional paper invites. Some designs are free; premium options require credits.  Website

2. Evite – A user-friendly platform with free and premium wedding invitation templates. Great for casual or semi-formal weddings.  Website

3. Greenvelope – Eco-friendly and beautifully designed digital invitations that resemble mailed cards. Paid service, but highly customizable.  Website

4. Canva – If you want a DIY approach, Canva offers templates for custom wedding invitations that you can email or share digitally.  Website

5. Zola – Allows you to send digital wedding invitations and manage RSVPs, guest lists, and wedding websites in one place.  Website

6. Minted – Known for high-end printed invitations, but they also offer digital versions that match physical invites.  Website

Long Island offers a variety of romantic honeymoon destinations perfect for newlyweds looking to unwind after their wedding. Here are some of the best spots to consider:

1. Montauk – Secluded Beach Getaway

For couples looking for a peaceful retreat, Montauk offers stunning ocean views, luxury resorts, and charming inns. Enjoy a stay at Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, known for its private beach and rejuvenating spa treatments. Take a sunset stroll at Montauk Point, visit the iconic Montauk Lighthouse, or enjoy a romantic dinner at Scarpetta Beach.

2. The Hamptons – Luxury & Elegance

The Hamptons provide an upscale yet relaxing honeymoon experience. Stay at The Baker House 1650 in East Hamptonor Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton for a mix of historic charm and modern luxury. Explore the picturesque wineries, visit Cooper’s Beach, and indulge in fine dining at Nick & Toni’s.

3. North Fork – Wine Country Escape

If you love wine and scenic landscapes, the North Fork is the perfect destination. Stay at The Sound View Greenport or Jedediah Hawkins Inn and explore award-winning wineries such as Bedell Cellars and Macari Vineyards. Enjoy a romantic picnic at a vineyard, take a sunset cruise, or visit the charming maritime village of Greenport.

4. Shelter Island – Private & Tranquil

For a more secluded escape, Shelter Island offers a quiet, nature-filled honeymoon. Stay at Sunset Beach Hotel, a chic waterfront property, or The Pridwin Hotel & Cottages for breathtaking views. Rent bikes, kayak through Mashomack Preserve, or simply relax on the beach with your new spouse.

5. Fire Island – Relaxed Beach Vibes

Fire Island is ideal for couples who love the beach and a laid-back atmosphere. Book a cozy oceanfront stay in Ocean Beach or Fair Harbor. Spend your days lounging on pristine beaches, taking in the lighthouse views, and enjoying casual dining at waterfront spots like Flynn’s.

6. The Gold Coast – Historic Mansions & Romance

If you love history and grandeur, consider staying at Oheka Castle, a magnificent Gold Coast mansion-turned-luxury hotel in Huntington. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the on-site restaurant, take a guided tour of the castle, or explore nearby beaches and parks.

7. Port Jefferson – Cozy & Charming

Port Jefferson is a great spot for a charming, small-town honeymoon experience. Stay at Danfords Hotel & Marina, take a romantic ferry ride, or explore the boutique shops and waterfront restaurants. Don’t miss a sunset cruise on the harbor!

No matter your style, Long Island has the perfect honeymoon destination for every newlywed couple. Whether you prefer luxury, adventure, or relaxation, you’ll find a romantic escape that feels just right.

Several Long Island wedding venues offer on-site lodging for you and your guests. Here are some top options:

1. Allegria Hotel (Long Beach) – A beachfront hotel with stunning ocean views, perfect for a luxury wedding with on-site accommodations.

2. The Inn at Fox Hollow (Woodbury) – A boutique hotel that offers an elegant wedding venue with overnight accommodations.

3. Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa (Montauk) – A luxurious oceanfront venue with on-site lodging and spa amenities.

4. Solé East Resort (Montauk) – A chic, relaxed wedding venue with guest rooms and beautiful outdoor spaces.

5. Viana Hotel & Spa (Westbury) – A modern, eco-friendly hotel with a wedding space and spa services.

6. The Three Village Inn (Stony Brook) – A charming and historic inn with waterfront views and cozy accommodations.

7. Bellport Inn (Bellport) – A historic setting for intimate weddings with on-site lodging for couples and guests.

8. Four Points by Sheraton Melville Long Island (Melville) – A great option for weddings with guest accommodations.

9. Holiday Inn Plainview (Plainview) – Offers wedding hosting and lodging in one convenient location.

10. Residence Inn Long Island Islip/Courthouse Complex (Islip) – Ideal for weddings needing extended stay accommodations for guests.

Many Long Island wedding vendors offer all-inclusive packages, making the planning process easier by bundling multiple services together. Here are some options:

Wedding Venues with All-Inclusive Packages

• Windows on the Lake – Offers catering, décor, floral arrangements, and entertainment options.
• The Vineyards at Aquebogue – Includes catering, tables, chairs, linens, and bar service.
• Flowerfield – Provides in-house catering, décor, and event planning.

Catering Halls & Restaurants

• Westbury Manor – Offers customizable wedding packages with food, beverages, and event coordination.
• Tellers: An American Chophouse – Provides gourmet catering with a high-end dining experience.

Entertainment & Photography

• HI DEF DJs – Includes DJ, lighting, photo booths, and more.
• Around Town Entertainment – Offers live bands, DJs, and MC services.
• NY Photo & Video Group – Provides wedding photography and videography in package deals.

Transportation

• Camelot Specialty Limos – Offers wedding limo packages with champagne, decorations, and red carpet service.
• NY Trolley Co. – Includes wedding trolley rentals for a unique and stylish ride.

Several bridal salons on Long Island offer custom gown alterations to ensure your dress fits perfectly for your big day. Two options include:

Bridal Reflections (Carle Place, Massapequa, and NYC) – Known for their expert alterations and designer gowns.
The Wedding Salon of Manhasset – Provides high-end gown tailoring for a flawless fit.

It’s always best to schedule your first fitting at least 2-3 months before your wedding to allow time for adjustments. Many salons also offer customizations, such as adding sleeves, beading, or lace details.

Long Island is home to some of the most beautiful waterfront wedding venues that offer both ceremony and reception spaces, making it easy to have your entire celebration in one stunning location. Some of the top choices include:

1. The Vineyards at Aquebogue – Set on the scenic North Fork, this venue offers gorgeous vineyard views with elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions.

2. The Waterview at Port Jefferson Country Club – Overlooking the Long Island Sound, this venue has a private beach, outdoor ceremony spots, and a beautiful ballroom with panoramic water views.

3. Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa – Perfect for couples dreaming of a beachfront wedding, Gurney’s offers ceremonies right on the sand and elegant reception options overlooking the ocean.

4. The Crescent Beach Club in Bayville – A stunning beachfront venue where you can have a toes-in-the-sand ceremony followed by a glamorous reception with views of the water.

5. Windows on the Lake in Ronkonkoma – Offers beautiful lakeside ceremonies and receptions with indoor and outdoor options, plus picturesque sunset views over the water.

When looking for the right waterfront venue, consider the guest capacity, weather backup plans, and whether the site offers all-inclusive packages to simplify your planning. It's always a great idea to schedule a tour to see the spaces in person and envision your day."

Adding fun and interactive elements to your wedding will keep guests engaged and entertained, and it’s a great way to make your Long Island wedding truly memorable. Here are some ideas:

1. Lawn Games or Beach Games (for outdoor venues)

If you're hosting your wedding at a venue with outdoor space, such as The Boathouse Shelter Island or Flowerfield, you can set up lawn games like corn hole, giant Jenga, or ring toss. If your wedding is near the beach, consider a sandcastle-building contest or beach volleyball. It’s a great way for guests to mingle and have fun during cocktail hour or before the reception.

2. Photo Booths with Props

A classic favorite that never goes out of style! Set up a photo booth with fun props like oversized sunglasses, feather boas, and hats. Guests can take funny, memorable photos, and you can create a guestbook from the images. Make it even more special by using a local photographer or DIY photobooth with props that match the Long Island vibe, like nautical accessories or local-themed props (e.g., lighthouse cutouts, beach-themed items).

3. Interactive Food Stations

Instead of just a traditional buffet, make food a fun part of the experience. Create food stations where guests can customize their dishes. For example, a taco bar, sushi station, or build-your-own s’mores station will engage guests and give them a chance to personalize their meal. Local Long Island vendors like Betty’s Catering can work with you to create unique, delicious offerings that reflect the region’s flavors.

4. Live Painting or Sketch Artist

Hire an artist to capture the wedding in real-time with a live painting or sketch of the ceremony or reception. This interactive entertainment not only provides a unique experience for guests, but it also gives you a beautiful keepsake of your special day. There are many talented local artists on Long Island, such as Diana Fine Art, who specialize in event art.

5. Wedding Bingo

Create a custom wedding bingo game for guests to play during the ceremony or reception. Include items they might see or hear during the event, such as "bride and groom kiss," "mother of the bride cries," or "someone does a toast." Offer small prizes for winners, like personalized mini bottles of wine or small gifts that reflect Long Island charm.

6. Dance-Off or Lip Sync Battle

Spice up your dance floor with a dance-off or lip sync battle where guests can show off their moves or performance skills. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and laughing! You can have a prize for the best dancer or best performer, and your DJ (or live band) can lead the fun. Local wedding entertainment companies like Paparazzi Entertainment can help organize this.

7. Create a Wedding Playlist with Guest Input

Invite guests to contribute their favorite songs to the wedding playlist beforehand. This gives your guests a chance to feel involved in the musical experience. You could even make it a fun game, with a prize for the guest who picks the best song that gets everyone dancing.

8. Caricature Artist

Hire a caricature artist to draw funny, personalized portraits of your guests. Not only does this provide entertainment, but your guests also leave with a unique keepsake to remember the day. Local artists in Long Island can bring your event to life with their artistic touch.

9. Silent Disco

For something a bit different, you could host a silent disco at your wedding. Guests wear wireless headphones and choose between different channels of music, dancing to their own beat while still sharing the energy of the dance floor. It’s a fun and unique way to mix things up, and it’s especially great for venues where noise restrictions are a concern.

10. Wedding Video Messages

Set up a video booth or a DIY video message station where guests can record short messages or well wishes to the couple. Later, you can compile these videos into a keepsake video montage. It’s a wonderful way to capture the personalities of your guests and add a personal touch to your wedding memories.

By integrating some of these fun and interactive entertainment ideas into your wedding day, you’re sure to keep your guests smiling and make your Long Island wedding even more unforgettable.

Personalizing your wedding ceremony on Long Island can make it even more memorable and meaningful. Here are some creative ways to add personal touches:

1. Write Your Own Vows

Writing your own vows is one of the most personal ways to express your feelings and commitment to each other. It’s an intimate part of the ceremony that allows you both to share your unique journey and what your partner means to you.

2. Incorporate Long Island’s Scenic Beauty

Long Island offers many beautiful locations, from beaches to vineyards to garden venues. Choose a spot that holds special meaning to you both, whether it's where you met, got engaged, or simply somewhere you love. Consider holding the ceremony at a location like The Vineyards at Aquebogue or The Boathouse Shelter Island for a stunning backdrop that reflects the area's natural beauty.

3. Use Local Flowers and Décor

To reflect Long Island’s charm, incorporate local blooms and elements into your ceremony décor. You could use flowers grown on Long Island, such as sunflowers or hydrangeas, or create a beach-inspired setup with seashells and driftwood if you're marrying near the coast.

4. Create a Custom Ceremony Script

Instead of a traditional ceremony script, work with your officiant to create one that reflects your relationship, values, and personalities. This could include stories from your relationship, shared memories, or even a special reading or poem from a favorite book or song that resonates with both of you.

5. Honor Your Heritage

If you or your partner have cultural or religious traditions, incorporating those into your ceremony can be a beautiful way to honor your roots. Whether it’s a special ritual, a meaningful prayer, or a traditional wedding blessing, adding these touches makes the ceremony more significant.

6. Include a Loved One in the Ceremony

Consider involving close family members or friends in the ceremony by having them do a reading, light a candle, or participate in a unity ritual. For example, a unity candle or sand ceremony can symbolize the coming together of two families.

7. Have a Special Music Moment

Select songs that have a personal meaning to both of you. Whether it’s a favorite song, one that reminds you of a memorable moment, or one that reflects your journey, playing it during your ceremony adds a personal and emotional touch. You could even have a local musician, such as a bagpiper or string quartet, perform live to elevate the experience.

8. Personalized Ceremony Programs

Design your ceremony programs to reflect your wedding theme and include fun facts about your relationship, such as how you met, significant milestones, and what makes your partnership unique. You could also add a thank-you note to guests for being part of your special day.

9. Wedding Blessing or Handfasting Ritual

Incorporate a unique ritual like a handfasting ceremony, where the couple’s hands are tied together with ribbon or cord to symbolize their union. This is a meaningful and visually striking ritual that can be personalized with different colors or meanings based on your personalities or the life you want to build together.

10. Personal Wedding Ceremony Keepsakes

After the ceremony, consider giving guests a small keepsake, like a handwritten note or personalized token, that represents the meaning of your union. This could be a favorite quote, a small plant or seedling to symbolize growth, or even a small charm that matches your theme.

By integrating these personal touches into your ceremony, you can create a deeply meaningful and unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Your Long Island wedding will not only reflect your love but also tell your unique story in a beautiful way.

For a Long Island fall wedding, personalized and memorable wedding favors that capture the season’s charm and your special day are a great way to thank your guests. Here are some unique favor ideas:

1. Local Honey Jars

Where to find:

• The Long Island Honey Board (local apiaries on the East End of Long Island)
• The Suffolk County Farm & Education Center sells local honey at their farm store.
  Packaging idea:
• Use small mason jars or glass vials and tie a ribbon with a personalized tag. You can also add a small wooden honey dipper for a rustic touch.

2. Mini Apple Ciders

Where to find:

• Windy Acres Farm in Wading River offers fresh, locally-produced cider.
• Fink’s Country Farm in Wading River also offers apple cider and cider-based products.
  Packaging idea:
• Choose mini glass bottles or cute, small jugs. You can add custom labels with your names and wedding date, and for a personal touch, wrap them in burlap or twine.

3. Scented Candles

Where to find:

• Candlefish in Huntington offers locally made candles, which you can customize with different scents.
• Kirk's Candles in Patchogue creates high-quality, handmade candles that you can personalize.
  Packaging idea:
• Choose seasonal scents like cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or apple. Package them in small glass jars with personalized labels or stickers that match your wedding theme. You can also add a small fall-themed ribbon or tag.

4. Personalized Hot Chocolate Kits

Where to find:

• The Long Island Chocolate Company in Bay Shore creates gourmet chocolate that you could use to create hot chocolate kits.
• Sweet Karma Desserts in Rockville Centre offers great chocolate products for creating kits.
  Packaging idea:
• Use clear plastic bags or small boxes to assemble hot chocolate kits. Include hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, and maybe a small spoon or stirrer. Add a custom label or a cute fall-themed tag with a message like “Hot Chocolate & Cozy Nights.”

5. Mini Pumpkin or Gourds

Where to find:

• Schmitt's Farm in Melville is a great local spot for purchasing pumpkins and gourds.
• Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck also sells pumpkins and can help with small, personalized pumpkin options.
  Packaging idea:
• Mini pumpkins can be wrapped in decorative fabric or placed in small baskets. You can also paint or stencil your initials or wedding date on them for a personalized touch.

6. Custom Bottle Openers

Where to find:

• Custom Earth Promos offers personalized bottle openers that are eco-friendly and customizable with your wedding details.
• Zazzle also has customizable bottle openers and wedding favor options.
  Packaging idea:
• Present them in small gift boxes or bags with a personalized thank-you tag. For a rustic look, consider burlap sacks or kraft paper boxes.

7. Fall-Themed Succulents

Where to find:

• Cider Hill Farm in Stony Brook offers potted plants, including succulents, that would be perfect for wedding favors.
• Dandelion's Florist in Bayport provides beautiful succulents in unique planters, which can be personalized for wedding favors.
  Packaging idea:
• Use small terracotta pots, mason jars, or wooden crates. You can decorate them with fall-colored ribbons or twine, and add a personalized tag to complete the look.

8. Customizable Cookie or Pie Slices

Where to find:

• Baked by Susan in Westhampton specializes in cookies and pies that can be personalized for wedding favors.
• Audrey's Fine Baked Goods on Long Island can create beautiful custom cookies and mini pie slices for your guests.
  Packaging idea:
• Wrap each cookie or pie slice in parchment paper, and seal it with a fall-themed sticker or ribbon. Small bakery boxes also work well for individual servings.

9. Personalized Wine Bottles

Where to find:

• Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack offers local wines that can be personalized with custom labels.
• Macari Vineyards in Mattituck also offers personalized wine bottles for weddings.
  Packaging idea:
• Package wine bottles in elegant boxes with personalized labels or tags. You could also pair each bottle with a wine glass charm or corkscrew engraved with your wedding details.

10. Maple Syrup Bottles

Where to find:

• Long Island Maple Company in Riverhead provides locally produced maple syrup that can be bottled and personalized.
• Burt’s Bees Honey offers maple syrup in small bottles, which can also be customized.
  Packaging idea:
• Package the syrup in small glass bottles or jars, and tie a ribbon or twine around the neck with a personalized label.

By sourcing from local vendors and incorporating creative packaging, you can make your fall wedding favors both unique and memorable. Many of these items also support Long Island-based businesses, which can make your wedding even more special!