Rooftop Wedding in NYC at Top of the Rock

Sina and Travis’s rooftop wedding in NYC was a dream come true for the couple, who had always been enamored with the city’s iconic landmarks and bustling energy. The NYC elopement vision: simple, elegant, and classically New York. And the choice for skyline views as they said their vows? Their Top of the Rock wedding ceremony was the highlight of the city that they love.

We started at sunrise, taking advantage of normally crowded locations that were now near empty. After an emotional first look on their hotel terrace, we hit the New York Public Library, with Sina’s long train and cathedral veil being showcased on the grand steps. Afterward, we made a stop at Grand Central before trekking up Fifth Avenue and turning into Rockefeller Center. The streets were wonderfully quiet, given the morning hours as the city was waking up.

Arriving at the observatory deck just as the sun was peeking over the skyscrapers, we found a quiet corner to exchange their vows, surrounded by the city they loved. This truly was the perfect rooftop wedding in NYC: affordable, iconic, and elegant yet still casual.

Riding high, we had one final stop for their New York elopement: Magnolia Bakery. Forget traditional wedding cake — two spoons, a container of their famous banana pudding, and you’ve got a very happy newly wedded couple sitting on a random ledge on Sixth Avenue.

Tips for Having a Rooftop Wedding in NYC

Go off-peak for affordable pricing. Yes, there are many rooftop wedding venues in NYC. However, if you have a smaller microwedding or elopement, many spots will let you rent out the rooftop for an hour on off-peak days, and there are several hotels with penthouses that have private terraces overlooking the city.
Have a rain plan. If the weather turns dicey, make sure you have a Plan B sheltered option nearby.
Know what kind of vibe you’re going for. Sunset, sunrise, and afternoon all have different pros/cons, and the resulting photos will show them. Discuss with your photographer what your ultimate goal is.