Guastavino's

Few New York wedding venues feel as grand as Guastavino's. Tucked beneath the Queensboro Bridge on East 59th Street, the space sits under a sweeping canopy of Catalan tile vaults designed by Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino, the same craftsman whose tilework graces some of the city's most beloved landmarks. Once a bustling produce market, it is now one of Manhattan's most striking places to say "I do," and this February celebration made the most of every arch.

The day began in Midtown at the Hyatt 48 Lex, now Hotel 48LEX, where the bride's gown hung in the window of her suite and the groomsmen helped one another into their tuxedos. Before heading uptown, the couple shared their first look on the hotel's balcony, high above Lexington Avenue, with the city's towers and the spire of the Chrysler Building rising behind them. It was cold, bright and completely New York, and the laughter that followed set the tone for the rest of the day.

At Guastavino's, we made portraits with the wedding party in front of the venue's soaring arched windows and on its graceful curving staircase, where soft winter light poured in through the glass. The groomsmen, as you can see, brought plenty of energy.

The ceremony took place under a chuppah of white flowers and branches, crowned with a hand-lettered banner reading "Dodi li va'ani lo," my beloved is mine and I am his. Framed by the glowing tile vaults and surrounded by family, the couple exchanged vows before a joyful recessional down the candlelit aisle.

As evening fell, violet uplighting washed over the vaults and granite columns. There was a first dance on a lit-up dance floor, heartfelt toasts, a hora that lifted the couple high above their guests and a live band that kept the dance floor full until the very last song.

Details

Getting ready and first look: Hyatt 48 Lex (now Hotel 48LEX), Midtown Manhattan

Ceremony and reception: Guastavino's, 409 East 59th Street, New York