Located a short 25-minute ferry ride from Manhattan is Staten Island—“The Greenest Borough.” Staten Island is filled with grassy hills and rustic parkland and is mostly comprised of residences and small businesses. It is accessible by several bridges, one being the well-known Verrazano Narrows Bridge (an amazing backdrop for photo shoots).
The major perk of having a wedding in Staten Island is that you can find all the amenities of being close to New York City without paying the price. For guests, this may be a better option, considering hotel rooms are half the price in Staten Island. Couples also have the option to incorporate more natural beauty into their wedding ceremonies due to the array of lush parkland this area has to offer. There is no shortage of options in Staten Island.
Large, extravagant weddings are quite popular in this area and there are many banquet halls to accommodate this wedding style. These privately owned catering halls are grand and rich in decor. Winding staircases, rich fabrics and elaborate chandeliers are just some of the staples you will commonly find here. Many offer delectable menus for cocktail receptions, dessert, buffets, and the like. Since everything is handled by the venue, many couples choose these locations for their wedding receptions and ceremonies as well.
Staten Island continues to offer many selections for couples looking for something a little less formal. One may consider having their reception at a golf course, with rolling hills and ponds, or at a venue in the historic district, Sailors’ Snug Harbor! This locale is home to more than 20 buildings of notable architecture. Snug Harbor, as the locals refer to it, is also the home of The Botanical and Cultural Center, an amazing and enchanting place filled with gazebos, fountains, pergolas and even a castle. This historic and timeless part of Staten Island makes it a favorite spot for wedding ceremonies, receptions and photo shoots, so be sure to book in way in advance.
For couples looking to channel the chic Manhattan wedding vibe, a sky top ballroom is the way to go. With views overlooking the entire city and the breathtaking panorama of the New York City skyline, your guest will certainly be in awe. These posh venues promise to deliver an unforgettable experience to all of your guests, locals and visitors alike.
While wedding venues in Staten Island are less expensive than those in NYC, couples can still expect to pay between $13,000 to $20,000 for 100 people. If you are looking to lower costs, you may consider a buffet in lieu of a formal sit down dinner. Being flexible with your menu choices will certainly help keep your budget to where you want it.