Ask LIWeddings

Including children in your bridal party is a beautiful way to make them feel special and involved in your big day! Here are some fun and creative ideas:

Traditional Roles with a Twist

1. Flower Girl & Ring Bearer – Add fun props (like bubble guns or mini signs) to their role.

2. Junior Bridesmaid or Groomsman – For older kids who can handle a bit more responsibility.

3. Petal Patrol – A group of kids tossing petals or confetti in cute coordinated outfits.

Unique & Memorable Roles

4. Sign Bearer – Have them walk down the aisle with a fun sign like “Here Comes the Bride” or “Don’t Worry, She’s on Her Way!”

5. Mini Ushers – Have them help guests find their seats or pass out programs.

6. Balloon Carrier – They can walk down the aisle holding helium balloons to release later.

Ceremony Helpers

7. Vow Book or Bouquet Holder – Trusted older kids can stand next to you and hold important items.

8. Candle Lighters (for unity ceremony) – If safe and age-appropriate, it can be very sweet.

In the Spotlight

9. Photo Assistants – Have kids help gather people for photos or pose with props.

10. Special Dance Participants – Choreograph a fun dance for the reception featuring the kids!

During the Reception

11. "Kid's Toast" or Speech – If they’re outgoing, a short and sweet speech can be adorable.

12. Activity Station Hosts – Set up a kids' corner and have the older ones help with games or crafts.

Fun Extras

13. Candy Tossers Instead of Petal Tossers – Mini candy bags for guests as they walk the aisle.

14. Honorary Titles – Like “Prince/Princess of the Day,” “Royal Helper,” or “Wedding Wizard.”

1. The Piermont – Babylon, NY

A waterfront venue offering a traditional sushi station with options like nigiri, sashimi, spicy tuna, and handmade rolls. Sushi can be served via live station, platters, or butler-passed.

2. Watermill Caterers – Smithtown, NY

Known for extravagant cocktail hours, Watermill includes sushi among its many gourmet stations. Guests praise the freshness and presentation of the sushi selection.

3. Insignia Prime Steak & Sushi – Smithtown, NY

Though primarily a steakhouse, Insignia offers a private event space with a focus on upscale sushi and fusion dishes, ideal for weddings and formal gatherings.

4. Swan Club On The Harbor – Roslyn, NY

This elegant waterfront venue offers sushi as part of its cocktail hour passed hors d'oeuvres or at a dedicated station. Customization is available.

5. H2O Seafood & Sushi – Smithtown, NY

Features sushi platters and sushi stations as part of their catering options for private events, including weddings and rehearsal dinners.

6. View – Oakdale, NY

A scenic venue on the water, View includes sushi as an option in their wedding packages. Ideal for couples seeking a relaxed but upscale coastal feel.

Please confirm with these venues to ensure that sushi is still offered.

Long Island is full of hidden gems that make for unforgettable wedding photos beyond the usual beach or vineyard shots. Here are a few lesser-known but stunning locations you might not have considered:

1. Avalon Park & Preserve (Stony Brook): A mix of boardwalks, ponds, and wooded trails creates a serene, storybook backdrop — perfect for nature-loving couples.

2. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (Oyster Bay): Once home to President Theodore Roosevelt, this estate features rustic charm, historic architecture, and gorgeous fields with a vintage flair.

3. The Wishing Tree at Heckscher Park (Huntington): A beautiful spot with a large, whimsical tree that’s perfect for romantic or fairytale-inspired photos, especially in fall.

4. Port Jefferson Harbor: While the village is popular, the less-crowded docks and side streets give you quaint coastal charm without the crowds — ideal for waterfront photos with a quiet, intimate vibe.

5. Planting Fields Arboretum (Oyster Bay): Not exactly a secret, but often underutilized — the greenhouses, Italian garden, and Tudor-style mansion offer diverse photo ops all in one place.

6. Old Westbury Gardens (Old Westbury): For couples who love elegance and history, this former Gold Coast estate offers sweeping staircases, fountains, and manicured gardens that look straight out of a fairytale.

Remember to check if any permits are required for photography, and consider scheduling a quick visit with your photographer ahead of time to scout the best angles. These hidden treasures can help make your wedding album uniquely yours — filled with authentic Long Island beauty that stands out.

Winter weddings require vendors who understand the seasonal vibe and know how to add warmth, texture, and glow to your big day. Some of the best winter wedding specialists include:

• Florist: Jack & Rose for dramatic winter whites and pine accents.
• Hair & Makeup: Glam Me Up for makeup that lasts.
• Photographer: Cassarino Studios for stunning shots in snowy or low-light settings.
• Bakery: Audrey’s Fine Baked Goods for seasonal flavors like white chocolate raspberry or gingerbread.
• Venue: Westbury Manor, The Allegria Hotel, or Flowerfield for ambiance, indoor beauty, and cozy vibes.
• Music: Around Town Entertainment for upbeat energy and elegant music.

 Wedding welcome bags are a thoughtful touch for out-of-town guests. Here are fun, local-inspired items to include:

• North Fork or South Shore wine mini bottles
• Montauk Brewing Company beer or hard seltzer cans
• A map of Long Island with highlighted wedding weekend events
• Local snacks like Tate’s Cookies, North Fork Potato Chips, or bagel chips
• A handwritten note or itinerary card with contact info and shuttle details
• Custom water bottles and Advil packets for the morning after

Looking for something different? These venues offer a unique atmosphere for non-traditional weddings:

• The Suffolk Theater (Riverhead, NY) – A restored 1930s art deco theater for a vintage-glam vibe.
• Old Field Club (Setauket, NY) – A historic waterfront lodge with rustic charm.
• The Pavilion at Sunken Meadow State Park – A beachfront venue surrounded by nature.
• Harbes Family Farm (Mattituck, NY) – Perfect for a farm-style or vineyard wedding.
• Cradle of Aviation Museum (Garden City, NY) – For couples who love aviation, space, or unique photo ops!

From cozy restaurants to elegant private rooms, here are some excellent Long Island spots for your rehearsal dinner:

• Tellers: An American Chophouse (Islip, NY) – Sophisticated steakhouse with private dining rooms.
• The Bryant (Huntington, NY) – Stylish with a vibrant menu and semi-private spaces.
• The Bellport (Bellport Village, NY) – A charming spot for intimate dinners with historic ambiance.
• Verace (Islip, NY) – Italian cuisine in a refined yet relaxed setting.
• The LakeHouse (Bay Shore, NY) – Waterfront dining with a seasonal, upscale menu.

Long Island is home to several stunning catering halls that offer outdoor ceremony spaces perfect for your wedding day. Whether you're envisioning a garden setting, waterfront backdrop, or vineyard view, here are some of the top venues that provide outdoor ceremony options:

• The Fox Hollow (Woodbury, NY) – Nestled on eight acres of landscaped gardens, Fox Hollow features a romantic outdoor courtyard ideal for ceremonies.

• Windows On The Lake (Lake Ronkonkoma, NY) – This lakeside venue offers a picturesque outdoor chapel overlooking the water, perfect for waterfront vows.

• The Vineyards at Aquebogue (Riverhead, NY) – Located in the heart of Long Island Wine Country, this venue provides a scenic vineyard setting for outdoor ceremonies.

• Watermill Caterers (Smithtown, NY) – Choose between elegant indoor chapels or beautifully maintained outdoor gardens for your ceremony.

• Swan Club On The Harbor (Roslyn, NY) – A Gold Coast gem with multiple garden spaces and waterfront views for dreamy outdoor ceremonies.

• The Mansion at West Sayville (West Sayville, NY) – Say “I do” on the lawn overlooking the Great South Bay at this historic waterfront venue.

• Beach Club Estate (Lake Ronkonkoma, NY) – Offers intimate, outdoor lakeside ceremonies in a serene setting.

• Chateau La Mer (Lindenhurst, NY) – Features a private gazebo and elegant waterside terrace for a memorable outdoor ceremony.

• Swan Lake Caterers (Manorville, NY) – Located on a picturesque golf course, this venue boasts expansive green lawns and a peaceful outdoor setting.

These venues combine natural beauty with professional service to help you create an unforgettable outdoor ceremony. Always check with the venue for seasonal availability and rain contingency plans.

When planning your Long Island wedding reception, adding unique and personalized food options is a fun way to impress your guests and make the celebration unforgettable. Many catering halls on Long Island are flexible and happy to accommodate creative menu ideas. Here are some trending and unique food suggestions to consider:

1. Raw Bar or Seafood Station
   Long Island is known for its fresh seafood. Ask your venue to set up a chilled raw bar featuring oysters, clams, shrimp cocktail, and lobster tails. It's a classy touch that also nods to local flavors.

2. Interactive Chef Stations
   Live-action food stations like made-to-order pasta, stir-fry, or gourmet mac and cheese bars allow guests to customize their dishes, creating an interactive and memorable experience.

3. Late-Night Bites
   Surprise your guests with comfort food favorites like sliders, mini grilled cheese with tomato soup shots, or gourmet pretzels during the after-party or last hour of the reception.

4. Ethnic-Inspired Cuisine
   Incorporate your heritage or your partner’s cultural background with traditional dishes or fusion cuisine. Think sushi rolls, empanada bars, or Mediterranean mezze platters.

5. Dessert Enhancements Beyond Cake
   Along with your wedding cake, offer a donut wall, gelato cart, s’mores station, or a mini dessert sampler table featuring local favorites from Long Island bakeries.

6. Signature Cocktails with Food Pairings
   Work with your caterer to create signature drinks paired with small bites—like a spicy margarita with mini tacos or a lavender gin fizz with goat cheese crostini.

7. Farm-to-Table Freshness
   Ask your Long Island catering hall if they source ingredients locally. A farm-to-table salad station or seasonal veggie display can elevate the freshness and support local farms.

8. Themed Food Displays
   Get creative with food presentation. A vintage-style charcuterie board, nautical-themed seafood buffet, or rustic harvest table ties into your overall wedding aesthetic.

Always check with your catering hall to see which ideas they can execute in-house and which may require outside vendors. Many Long Island catering venues are happy to tailor the culinary experience to reflect your personality and preferences.

1. Timing is Everything

• Ceremony Start Time: Opt for a late afternoon or early evening ceremony (around 4:30–5:30 PM). This avoids the midday heat and allows for golden hour photos among the vines.

• Reception Timing: Begin the reception just before sunset to enjoy cooler temperatures and ambient lighting.

2. Guest Comfort in the Heat

• Shade & Shelter: Ask the venue about shaded ceremony spots or provide parasols, fans, or cooling stations with iced towels or misters.

• Hydration Stations: Offer infused water stations (lemon, cucumber, mint) before the ceremony and during cocktail hour.

• Bug Control: Vineyards can attract insects—have citronella candles or discreet pest control in place.

3. Attire & Dress Code

• Lightweight Fabrics: Encourage guests to wear breathable materials like cotton, linen, or chiffon. Brides may consider a lightweight gown with minimal layers, and grooms should look into lighter wool or linen suits.

• Footwear: If the ceremony or reception is on grass or gravel, advise against stilettos and consider wedge heels or flats for comfort.

4. Wine & Seasonal Menus

• Local Flavor: Work with the vineyard’s chef or caterer to create a summer-inspired menu using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Pair courses with the vineyard’s own wines.

• Wine Tastings: Consider offering a wine tasting as part of cocktail hour to highlight the venue’s specialties.

5. Décor & Aesthetic

• Lean Into Nature: Use the natural beauty of the vines as your backdrop. Minimal, rustic-chic décor with greenery, wood, and soft florals works beautifully.

• Lighting: String lights, lanterns, and candles can add magic as the sun sets.

By thoughtfully addressing these elements, you can create a stunning and comfortable summer celebration that fully embraces the charm of a Long Island vineyard.

When choosing a wedding venue on Long Island, there are several key factors every bride should consider to ensure the day is everything you’ve dreamed of:

1. Location & Accessibility – Whether you're looking for a beachfront setting on the South Shore or a vineyard on the North Fork, make sure the venue is easily accessible for your guests, especially if you're accommodating out-of-town visitors.

2. Style & Atmosphere – Long Island offers a wide variety of venue styles — from elegant mansions and rustic barns to modern waterfront properties. Choose a venue that reflects your personal taste and wedding theme.

3. Capacity & Layout – Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list. Ask about indoor and outdoor options, especially for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions.

4. One Event at a Time – Many Long Island venues now offer exclusive wedding packages, meaning they host only one event at a time, giving you and your guests undivided attention.

5. On-Site Amenities – Consider venues that offer on-site catering, bridal suites, photo locations, and event planning services. This adds convenience and reduces the need for multiple vendors.

6. Weather Contingency Plans – If you're planning an outdoor wedding, make sure there’s a beautiful indoor backup space available in case of bad weather.

7. Reviews & Reputation – Look at recent reviews and speak to past couples. A trusted Long Island wedding venue will have positive testimonials, beautiful photo galleries, and strong vendor partnerships.

8. Budget & Packages – Ask about wedding packages and what’s included. Many venues offer seasonal specials or all-inclusive options that can help keep your celebration within budget.

By keeping these essentials in mind, you’ll find a Long Island wedding venue that’s not only beautiful but also meets your needs and vision for the perfect day.

Yes, several Long Island wedding venues offer on-site accommodations, making it convenient for out-of-town guests and providing a seamless experience for the wedding day. Here are a few popular options:

1. Allegria Hotel (Long Beach) – A beachfront boutique hotel with event spaces and luxurious guest rooms, perfect for a stylish coastal wedding.

2. Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa – Offers stunning oceanfront views, full-service spa, and plenty of guest rooms for a destination wedding feel.

3. Viana Hotel & Spa (Westbury) – A modern and eco-friendly hotel with elegant event spaces, upscale accommodations, and spa services.

4. East Wind Long Island (Wading River) – Features multiple ballrooms, a charming Inn, and a full-service spa right on the property.

5. The Three Village Inn (Stony Brook) – Offers a historic setting with charming guest rooms and proximity to the harbor and village.

These venues not only provide a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony and reception, but also allow your guests to stay on-site, relax, and enjoy the full wedding weekend without extra travel.

Long Island is home to several premier bridal salons that offer designer wedding gowns from world-renowned names like Berta, Pronovias, and Martina Liana. If you're dreaming of a high-fashion look for your big day, here are a few must-visit bridal boutiques:

• Bridal Reflections (Carle Place, Massapequa, and New York City)
  Known for its luxury selection, Bridal Reflections carries designers like Berta, Pronovias, and Martina Liana. Their expert consultants offer personalized appointments to help you find the perfect gown for your Long Island wedding, whether you're planning a glamorous Gold Coast mansion affair or a romantic Hamptons vineyard ceremony.

• The Wedding Salon of Manhasset (Manhasset)
  Another top destination for luxury bridal fashion, The Wedding Salon of Manhasset features gowns from designers like Pronovias and other European couture labels, perfect for stylish, sophisticated Long Island brides.

When searching for the perfect designer gown, booking appointments early is important, as salons often host exclusive trunk shows and sample sales featuring these designers. Whether you envision yourself in a sleek Berta silhouette, a romantic Pronovias ballgown, or a sophisticated Martina Liana design, Long Island’s bridal salons have the perfect dress waiting for you. Make sure you confirm with these shops before heading in.

To keep your makeup fresh from your "I do's" to your last dance, preparation and product choice are key — especially with Long Island's unpredictable weather and potential for humidity!

1. Start with a solid skincare routine in the weeks leading up to your big day — hydrated, healthy skin helps makeup last longer.

2. Use a professional primer that suits your skin type. It helps create a smooth base and locks makeup in place.

3. Airbrush makeup or long-wear foundations are excellent choices for weddings, offering lightweight coverage with serious staying power.

4. Set it and forget it! A setting powder (especially in the T-zone) followed by a setting spray can seal everything in for hours.

5. Blotting papers and a touch-up kit with lipstick, powder, and a mini setting spray are your best friends — have your Maid of Honor keep it handy!

Hiring a professional Long Island bridal makeup artist who knows how to prep for different venues, whether it’s a beach ceremony in Montauk or a ballroom in Great Neck, also makes a huge difference. They'll know exactly what products to use for your unique skin and the local climate.

Long Island is home to some of the most breathtaking wedding photography locations, especially if you're dreaming of romantic sunset shots. Whether you're planning a beach wedding, a vineyard celebration, or a classic estate affair, there are countless scenic spots perfect for capturing golden hour magic.

Here are a few of the top Long Island wedding photography locations for sunset photos:

1. Montauk Point & The Hamptons – With sweeping ocean views and a rustic lighthouse backdrop, Montauk offers a dramatic and timeless setting for sunset wedding photos.

2. The Vineyards at Aquebogue – Rows of grapevines, open skies, and a serene countryside ambiance make this North Fork venue a favorite among Long Island wedding photographers.

3. Sunken Meadow State Park – Located on the North Shore, this beach location features a long boardwalk and panoramic views of the Long Island Sound — ideal for couples wanting coastal romance in their wedding album.

4. Jones Beach or Robert Moses Beach – Both beaches offer expansive horizons and soft sandy dunes that glow beautifully during sunset — a dream for beach wedding photography.

5. The Planting Fields Arboretum – This historic estate in Oyster Bay features gardens, greenhouses, and stately architecture that look even more magical in the warm tones of dusk.

6. The Mansion at Timber Point – Overlooking the Great South Bay, this waterfront venue is perfect for sunset portraits with sailboats and natural beauty in the background.

When choosing a Long Island wedding photographer, be sure to ask about their experience with sunset lighting and golden hour techniques. To create romantic, unforgettable imagery, a skilled photographer will know how to take full advantage of Long Island’s natural beauty — from the North Fork vineyards to the South Shore beaches.

Whether you're planning your wedding on the East End, Nassau County, or anywhere in between, timing your wedding photos around sunset can turn your love story into visual magic.

Top Long Island Wedding Venues for Cultural Weddings with Customizable Cocktail Hours

Planning a cultural or multicultural wedding on Long Island? From vibrant Indian and Jewish ceremonies to elegant Greek, Latin, and Middle Eastern celebrations, Long Island offers a diverse selection of wedding venues that embrace tradition and offer exceptional cocktail hour experiences. Whether you need Halal, Kosher, vegetarian, or ethnic-themed menus, these catering halls go above and beyond to bring your cultural vision to life.

Top Long Island Wedding Venues – One Wedding at a Time

1. Flowerfield (St. James, NY)

• Setting: 56-acre private estate with orchards, vineyards, gardens, ponds, and a private island.

• Why it's special: Full estate access, glass atrium for cocktail hour, personalized service.

• Website: flowerfieldevents.com

2. Westbury Manor (Westbury, NY)

• Setting: Elegant Gold Coast mansion on 5 acres with gardens and fountains.

• Why it's special: “Make the Manor Your Own” with their one-event-at-a-time policy.

• Bonus: Their custom Wedding Planner App helps you stay organized.

• Website: westburymanor.com

3. The Vineyards at Aquebogue (Aquebogue, NY)

• Setting: North Fork vineyard with indoor and outdoor spaces.

• Why it's special: Vineyard views, rustic elegance, and one-event-at-a-time focus.

• Website: thevineyardsataquebogue.com

4. The Boathouse Shelter Island (Shelter Island, NY)

• Setting: Waterfront venue in a historic boathouse.

• Why it's special: Exclusivity, waterfront charm, and tucked-away island feel.

• Website: theboathouseshelterisland.com

5. The Bellport Inn (Bellport, NY)

• Setting: Boutique inn and event space in a charming village.

• Why it's special: Offers weekend buyouts for weddings and private gatherings.

• Perfect for: Intimate and stylish destination-style weddings.

• Website: thebellportinn.com

6. Giorgio’s Baiting Hollow (Baiting Hollow, NY)

• Setting: Overlooks a golf course with North Fork views.

• Why it's special: Exclusive event focus with beautifully maintained grounds.

• Website: giorgiosli.com

7. The Estate at Three Village Inn (Stony Brook, NY)

• Setting: Colonial-style inn with historic charm in Stony Brook Village.

• Why it's special: Offers full property buyouts for weddings.

• Bonus: Lodging on-site for guests.

• Website: lessings.com

8. The Somerley at Fox Hollow (Woodbury, NY)

• Setting: Luxe, private wing of the Fox Hollow catering estate.

• Why it's special: Fully private with its own entrance, gardens, and ballroom.

• Website: thefoxhollow.com

9. Bourne Mansion (Oakdale, NY)

• Setting: Grand Vanderbilt-era mansion with sweeping lawns and bay views.

• Why it's special: Offers full-mansion exclusivity for one wedding at a time.

• Website: lessings.com

10. The Mansion at Timber Point (Great River, NY)

• Setting: Overlooking the Great South Bay and a golf course.

• Why it's special: Private estate vibes and Lessing’s single-event service.

Website: lessings.com

Make sure you contact these Venues to confirm that they only offer one wedding at a time.

Ideally, you should start booking your key Long Island wedding vendors 12 to 18 months in advance,  especially if you’re planning a wedding during peak season (May through October) on Long Island. This timeline helps secure your first-choice venues and professionals, many of whom book up quickly due to the area’s wedding popularity.

Here’s a basic booking timeline to help:

• Venue: 12–18 months out

• Planner/Coordinator: 12–16 months out

• Photographer/Videographer: 10–14 months out

• DJ/Band: 10–12 months out

• Officiant: 8–12 months out

• Florist & Decor: 8–10 months out

• Caterer: (if not included with venue): 8–10 months out

• Hair & Makeup: 6–9 months out (earlier if booking trials)

• Transportation: 6–8 months out

• Bridal Gown: 9–12 months out (with enough time for fittings)

Since Long Island has a competitive wedding market, it’s best to reach out early and lock in dates with a signed contract and deposit. If you're set on a specific venue or vendor, don’t wait—they can book up years in advance.