HollyHedge Estates: Where Historic Elegance Meets Natural Beauty 150 150 adam Michaels

HollyHedge Estates: Where Historic Elegance Meets Natural Beauty

Imagine exchanging vows amidst the rustic charm and historic elegance of an 18th-century estate, where every corner whispers tales of timeless romance. Welcome to HollyHedge Estate, nestled in the heart of Bucks County, Pennsylvania—a venue that transforms wedding dreams into unforgettable realities. Choosing a wedding venue is one of the most significant decisions in the planning process, setting the tone for your entire celebration. As the premiere entertainment company for the tristate area, Around Town Entertainment knows all about phenomenal venues and HollyHedge Estate is one. Offering a harmonious blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities, it is an absolutely standout choice for couples seeking a venue that embodies romance and elegance. With a dedicated team ready to bring your vision to life, your wedding at HollyHedge is sure to be an event you’ll cherish forever.

 

A Stroll Through History

 

As you step onto the 21-acre property, you’re immediately enveloped by lush gardens, ivy-covered stone walls, and the enchanting ambiance of fieldstone buildings. The estate’s rich history is palpable, offering a picturesque backdrop that seamlessly blends rustic allure with sophisticated elegance. It’s no wonder couples are drawn to this haven, where the past and present dance in harmonious celebration. Its size also lends itself beautifully to an all-encompassing sense of seclusion and privacy, and can helpfully fit larger groups without feeling cramped, or host smaller groups without feeling cavernous! 

 

Ceremony Spaces That Speak to the Soul

 

HollyHedge Estate offers a variety of ceremony locations, each exuding its own unique charm. Just picture saying “I do” in the serene courtyard, surrounded by blooming flowers and the gentle murmur of a central fountain. For those seeking an indoor setting, the historic stone barn provides a warm, intimate atmosphere with its exposed wooden beams and rustic stone walls. Whether you envision an outdoor garden affair or a cozy indoor gathering, the estate caters to diverse tastes and styles.

 

Receptions That Dazzle

 

Following the ceremony, guests can transition to the modern reception facility, which comfortably accommodates up to 200 guests. The space is a perfect blend of classic charm and contemporary amenities, ensuring a seamless experience for you and your loved ones. With high ceilings, elegant lighting, and customizable layouts, the reception hall becomes a canvas for your unique vision.

 

Culinary Delights to Savor

 

At HollyHedge, dining is an experience unto itself. The estate’s award-winning, in-house catering team collaborates with local farmers and distributors to craft seasonal dishes that tantalize the taste buds. From stylish cocktail hours featuring delectable hors d’oeuvres (and our fabulous cocktail trio of musicians) to sumptuous three-course dinners, every meal is a celebration of flavor and artistry. And let’s not forget the custom wedding cakes—each confection a masterpiece designed to reflect your personal taste.

 

Accommodations with a Personal Touch

 

For couples desiring on-site accommodations, the estate offers 15 charming guest rooms, each thoughtfully appointed to provide a cozy retreat after a day of festivities. Staying on the property allows you and your guests to fully immerse yourselves in the wedding experience, from pre-ceremony preparations to post-reception relaxation. Additionally, HollyHedge has a sister inn – The Lumberville 1740 House – which has another 24 riverfront rooms just four miles from HollyHedge. An extra perk? If your party books at least 10 rooms at 1740 House, they’ll provide a complimentary shuttle for your guests on your wedding night, so no one has to worry about designated drivers. (Handy, considering HollyHedge’s standard wedding package includes a 5-hr open bar.)

 

A Team Dedicated to Your Vision

 

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but the experienced team at HollyHedge Estate is committed to making the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. With over 25 years of experience, their in-house wedding planners work closely with couples to bring their unique visions to life, ensuring that every detail is meticulously attended to. From coordinating vendors to customizing décor, the team’s personalized approach guarantees a celebration that reflects your love story.

 

A Venue That Gives Back

 

Beyond its breathtaking beauty and exceptional service, HollyHedge Estate is a family-run, family-owned business dedicated to preserving the natural splendor and historical significance of the property. Their commitment to sustainability and community engagement adds an extra layer of warmth and integrity to your celebration. Additionally, they’ve made a serious commitment to investing in renewable energy and sustainable practices, from solar panels to responsible drip irrigation systems, making them leaders in the green wedding industry. 

 

Of course, don’t just take our word for it—hear from those who have experienced the magic firsthand. One bride shares, “From the first time we visited HollyHedge, we knew it was where we wanted to get married. The gorgeous landscaping, the quaint feeling of the inn, the charm of all the unique buildings and guest rooms, and the overall rustic yet elegant vibe—it was as if the vision in our heads had instantly come to life!” 

Inquire about booking your wedding at HollyHedge Estate by visiting their website and connecting with their team!

How long do live wedding bands play for?
How long do live wedding bands play for? 570 552 adam Michaels

How long do live wedding bands play for?

Wedding bands typically perform for six hours which is usually split into 2×1 hour sets and 1×4 hour sets. However, there are quite a few variations and some of them may suit your wedding more than others. The choices and options are endless enabling you to fit a live band around your wedding schedule perfectly.

Because most bands are used to playing for two hours over three or four hours, you are unlikely to get a discount if you want them for less time. Factor in their setting up and travel times and you can see why they may refuse to play for less. Most bands and musicians will book an entire day for one wedding.

Day of the Wedding

Factor in a few hours before the music needs to start for the production crew and band to arrive. For us, even though setup takes an hour, the sound crew will arrive around two hours before to ensure everything is running smoothly. The band will arrive about one hour before showtime to prepare and perform a sound check. Digital consoles save the band’s settings so only slight adjustments need to be made, saving a significant amount of setup time. Please note, if the ceremony and reception are in the same location, plan for the production crew and band to arrive earlier to ensure everything is in order before the festivities begin.

We have been part of the wedding entertainment world for over 20 years now so we are a well-oiled machine when it comes to performing at weddings. Below is the typical schedule for our (and most other) wedding bands come wedding day. When we say typical, we mean roughly 90% of weddings follow these timings year after year. With our bands, the background music always follows the end of any live set and continues until the beginning of the next live set so the music never has to stop and that party keeps rockin’! 

3 pm: The band arrives at your wedding venue and unloads their equipment.

4 pm: All the equipment is set up and sound checked. Pre-ceremony music begins at the beginning of the ceremony.

5 pm: The jazz trio performs at the cocktail hour, 1-hour live set.

6 pm: The reception begins and the full band performs for the final 4-hour live set.

10 pm: The band finishes their live set and begins to pack up equipment.

Popular booking options with most wedding bands are early arrivals, late finishes, and extra live sets. In the past, we’ve arrived at weddings as early as 10 a.m. and finished performing at 1 a.m. or 3 a.m. These options often cost extra but they could be just what your wedding needs! We’ve had couples knowing they have dance-hungry guests and so the 6×1 hour live sets we performed for them went down an absolute treat! Just ask us for more information on all these great options!

In our experience, at least 90% of weddings run late and it usually becomes impossible to fit sets into revised or packed schedules. We never like to see the venue managers or wedding planners frantically running around trying to cram everything in! Also surprisingly, if your wedding band starts early, you want them to finish around 11:30 pm/12 am the gaps between the sets can end up being huge – sometimes well over an hour which can kill the party vibe a bit.

Of course, it doesn’t necessarily matter how long wedding bands play for because you can usually ask for a unique live set timing and many wedding bands will accommodate. Our bands will always try their best to fit around your ideas and wedding timings. You can see an example of some of the booking options we offer here and because of the unique way we work, we can design 100% custom live wedding bands just for you.

When everyone knows that the wedding band is only going to perform once, they get up on that dance floor and as soon as you are up there, your guests will be so supersets can be some of the most fun had at a wedding! Some couples ask for them as standard and many, many wide-eyed, smiling couples have come up to us after a hectic, delayed wedding day so happy with a superset that got everyone dancing and having boundless fun. Supersets can be the perfect stress reliever and sometimes the ideal way to end a beautiful wedding. 

Remember to factor in food for the band. While they don’t have to join you for your three-course banquet, they will need sustenance if they’re going to be rocking the night away. If you hire them for longer, they’ll need more food. This is important to factor in when you are looking at how much a wedding band will cost.

What time should they finish?

Work out if your chosen venue has any noise restrictions. These could be all day, or only start at a certain time. Some places even have a sound limiter, which means power is cut if the noise goes over a certain volume. It would be awful to book a big rock band, only to discover that you can’t play loud music.

90% of wedding venues only allow live music up until midnight latest so despite what many a drunk and excited guest has said to us over the years, no, we can’t just keep performing and ignoring the rules of the venue! The venue could lose its music license and we could be banned from the venue or given an awful review! Don’t miss out on the wedding band and get up on that dancefloor early!

Work out what time you have your venue and work backward. You can’t arrange for the band to play their last song at five minutes to midnight if you are expected to all be gone by the hour; the band will need time to pack up and leave. However, the band announcing the last dance is a great way to subtly tell your guests it’s time to go.

If you have a strict finishing time by your venue, pass this information on to the band. They will be able to tell you how long they will need to pack up so that you can be safely out in time.

Sagamore Resort
Happily Ever After at The Sagamore 598 400 adam Michaels

Happily Ever After at The Sagamore

It was on this night November 2, 2019 that this lovely couple got married and began their happily ever after!

The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing was the perfect setting fit for a king and queen to have their enchanted fairy tale wedding.   The stunning views of the mountain and the beautiful lake creates the backdrop for the most exquisite outdoor ceremony at this exclusive wedding venue.

Julia and Joseph became Mr. and Mrs. Perri at this lovely ceremony.  The stunning bride walked down the aisle to the song “Morning Has Broken” played by a classic pianist from Around Town Entertainment The couple’s family and guests were moved to tears as the vows were exchanged.  But the tears turned to cheers of congratulations upon the conclusion of the ceremony.  Etta James’ classic love song “At Last” could be heard echoing throughout the spacious property as the guests moved to the next portion of the evening to enjoy a cocktail hour.    There the jazz trio serenaded the guests with a good mix of jazz standards and swing selections to create the energy and excitement of what was to come.

Everyone knew the Around Town Band from Around Town Entertainment was the featured act to open the reception and to ignite a night of dancing under the stars.  The nine-piece band consisted of three powerhouse lead vocalists along with piano, bass, drums and guitar and the added two horns saxophone and trumpet for that big band sound.

The bride and groom’s closest friends and parents surrounded the dance floor as the couple had their official first dance of the evening.  The unique song that was chosen to be performed by the band was Ellie Goulding’s “How Long Will I Love You.”  It was very clear that the answer to the question in this song title was “forever.”  This couple was so in love.

The bride then joined her father for a heartwarming dance to “Lullaby” by Billy Joel.  The groom escorted his mom to the dance floor for the next special dance.  They chose the song “What Would I Do Without You” by Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors.

The band prepared the couples favorite songs to dance to.  The really popular song “Simple” by Georgia Florida Line was one of the songs the band learned for this event.  Then they played the couple’s favorite Abba songs as well.   The ladies were elated and sang along to “Dancing Queen.”  The gentlemen had their favorite rock classic anthem songs to rock out to, so they were definitely pumped and ready.

The rest was up, up and up from there in the way of energy and excitement.  The dancing began and it never stopped until the lights came up and the guests enjoyed the after party.  We were absolutely thrilled to be part of this amazing celebration with such a great couple.

Around Town Entertainment is an entertainment company from New York City that provides wedding music and entertainment in the New York, Connecticut and New Jersey area.   With five featured bands to choose from each client can choose their favorite NY wedding band, CT wedding band and NJ wedding band.

Red Maple Vineyard: As Sustainable & Family-Oriented as Your Love 1125 750 adam Michaels

Red Maple Vineyard: As Sustainable & Family-Oriented as Your Love

Nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, Red Maple Vineyard in West Park, New York, stands as a testament to rustic elegance and farm-to-table excellence. This family-owned-and-operated venue seamlessly blends natural beauty with exceptional service, making it an idyllic setting for any couple seeking a truly memorable wedding experience. As an award-winning New York business ourselves, with an emphasis on excellence, we here at Around Town Entertainment love a sustainable, family business that brings that same level of outstanding quality to all that they do; and we know you’ll absolutely love the personal touch they’ll bring to hosting your big day. 

A Rich Tapestry of History and Scenery

Once an 1800s dairy farm, Red Maple Vineyard has transformed into a picturesque estate spanning 143 acres – acknowledging and paying respect to the original custodians of the beautiful land, the Munsee Esopus tribe of the Lenape Indian nation. The property boasts a renovated cow barn, stone foundation ruins, expansive lawns, lush forests, and flourishing vineyards. Overlooking the historic Hudson River, the venue offers breathtaking vistas that serve as a stunning backdrop for wedding ceremonies and photographs. 

Farm-to-Table Culinary Excellence & Sustainability 

At the heart of Red Maple Vineyard’s appeal is its commitment to farm-to-table dining. Partnering with Corner Stone Caterers, the venue crafts menus that highlight fresh, local ingredients, many sourced directly from its own vegetable gardens and wild foraging on the property. This dedication ensures that each dish is not only delectable but also a true reflection of the Hudson Valley’s rich agricultural heritage. By sourcing ingredients from their own gardens and practicing eco-friendly farming methods, they minimize their environmental footprint while delivering fresh and flavorful cuisine. If you value environmental stewardship and sustainability and want to incorporate these principles into your celebration, Red Maple Vineyard is definitely the place for you. 

Craft Beverages and On-Site Taproom

Enhancing its farm-to-table philosophy, Red Maple Vineyard produces small-batch wines, beers, ciders, and meads, often utilizing ingredients harvested from the property. For those interested in a more casual experience, or just wanting to really get the feel for the venue and its offerings, they open their Tap & Tasting Room to the public on Wednesdays, offering a delightful selection of house-made beverages. 

Versatile Event Spaces

One of Red Maple Vineyard’s advantages is just how many diverse settings they have contained within the property, allowing them to cater to various wedding visions:

  • The Reception Pavilion: A modern structure featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and Hudson River, creating an ambiance of rustic sophistication.
  • The Grounds: Manicured lawns and gardens provide serene spots for outdoor ceremonies or cocktail hours amidst nature’s splendor.
  • The Barn: A renovated 19th-century cow barn that exudes historic charm, offering a cozy space for intimate gatherings or photo sessions.

These versatile spaces allow you to tailor your wedding experience to suit your unique preferences, whether you envision a grand celebration or an intimate affair. 

Comprehensive Wedding Packages

Red Maple Vineyard offers all-inclusive wedding packages designed to simplify planning and enhance the overall experience. These packages encompass a variety of essentials, including, but absolutely not limited to:

  • Culinary Delights: Customized menus and wedding cakes that cater to diverse palates.
  • Beverage Services: Top-shelf bar selections to keep the celebration lively.
  • Event Essentials: Provision of tables, chairs, cutlery, china, glassware, solid linens, votive candles, and toiletry baskets.
  • Top-Tier Professional Support: Dedicated staffing and event planning services to ensure seamless execution. Read any review of Red Maple Vineyard and invariably, the first thing you’ll read is just how incredible the staff here is! 

Additionally, Red Maple Vineyard makes it easy for you to opt for discounted enhancements such as bistro lighting, live trees for the reception area, farm tables, a cozy fire pit complete with s’mores, and a charming beer canoe, adding personalized touches to your special day. 

Unparalleled Photo Opportunities

The estate’s incredibly diverse landscapes provide countless picturesque settings for wedding photography. From the hilltop ceremony site on Deer Ridge to the vineyard rows and historic stone ruins, each corner of the property offers a unique backdrop, ensuring that your wedding album will be as breathtaking and special as the memories it contains.

Accommodating Guest Experiences

With the capacity to host up to 300 guests, Red Maple Vineyard ensures that both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations are executed with equal grace and attention to detail. The venue’s experienced and personable team works closely with you to customize every aspect of the event, from menu selections to décor, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience for both you and your guests. 

A Venue in High Demand

Due to its exceptional offerings and reputation, Red Maple Vineyard’s wedding calendar fills up quickly. If this venue sounds like the one for you, we strongly encourage you to inquire well in advance to secure your desired dates and begin the planning process for your dream wedding at this unparalleled venue! 

Inquire about booking your wedding at Red Maple Vineyard by visiting their website and connecting with their team!

The Lace Factory
Timeless Wedding at The Lace Factory 600 300 adam Michaels

Timeless Wedding at The Lace Factory

SMILE!!! That is the one word that stands out the most when I think of Devin & Josh’s wedding on September 5, 2020. The entire day, their faces were just lit up with the most infectious smiles, and it truly made for one of our happiest weddings of all time!

Devin and Josh had a vision in mind when it came to their Fall wedding at the incredible Lace Factory. While they knew the general direction they wanted things to go in, we took Devin and Josh’s vision and helped bring it to life. With the help of some crafty & creative ideas and song requests from their family members and friends, we crafted a very special wedding playlist while adding some of our personal touches into the mix as well!

Speaking with Devin and Josh before the planning process also gave Around Town Entertainment a really great idea of how incredible their wedding was going to be. Once the band was around all of their family and friends, the wedding band truly understood why they were always so happy! They certainly had us smiling (and laughing) all day long!

The wedding day was a combination of modern elegance meets vintage. Devin and Josh had had a stunning, timeless look and the day began with an intimate ceremony officiated by one of Devin and Josh’s best friends. Standing in front of a backdrop of beautifully draped chiffon panels, Devin and Josh committed to spending the rest of their lives together with the pianist from Around Town Entertainment’s pianist playing a cover of “Wonderwall” by Oasis with their friends and family in attendance.

The couple wanted to keep it super intimate, so they wrote their own vows and exchanged roses as a symbol that whenever words can’t be found or a common ground cannot be met, the rose is to be placed somewhere in the house as a sign of our promise and vow to choose and love each other every single day through the good and bad. How sweet!

After that, guests boarded the Essex Steam Train to enjoy the views on their way to the reception at the Lace Factory while the bride and groom took a car service to enjoy their first moments of newlywed bliss. 

Inside the expansive room at The Lace Factory, a blend of rustic and industrial elements created a romantic aesthetic with the help of string lights, which were strung around the exposed beams on the ceiling. The natural beauty of the space didn’t require much added decor, so to bring the room to life, Devin and Josh put small floral arrangements in used wine bottles on tables atop a round slice of wood, which featured simple greens and flowers with white petals. To find their seats, each guest had a shot glass with their name on it that was filled with sangria. “Once you found your seat, you took the shot and saved the glass,” says Devin.

After a seated dinner and cocktails, Devin and Josh had their first dance to Brad Paisley’s “Then” performed by  Around Town Entertainment’s Authority Band. And then, the wedding party had a shocking surprise in store for the newlyweds. With top hats in hand, the entire group choreographed a dance to a compilation of songs from James Taylor. 

For the rest of the evening, The Authority Band played all of their favorite songs from Brian McKnight to All American Rejects, which kept guests on the dance floor all night long. “Naturally, we couldn’t keep our hands off of each other, and we didn’t part the entire night,” said Josh. “It was arguably the best day of our lives.”

Around Town Entertainment was honored to have been chosen as the best NY wedding band, NJ wedding band, and CT wedding band.

Congratulations Devin and Josh!

The Foundry Long Island
We Found Love At The Foundry 900 1200 adam Michaels

We Found Love At The Foundry

They truly did find love at the Foundry in Long Island City, New York.  Michele and Stephen chose this really unique raw space with the right catering team and the amazing Foundry staff, the space is quickly converted into one of New York’s top wedding venues.

THE FOUNDRY IS A 19TH-CENTURY BUILDING THAT HAS BEEN METICULOUSLY RESTORED TO SHOWCASE ITS INDUSTRIAL CHARACTER AND STUNNING PROPORTIONS.

THE FOUNDRY INTERIOR BOASTS 3,000+ SQUARE FEET OF RAW SPACE WITH A LUSH OUTDOOR COURTYARD, ROOFTOP TERRACE WITH VIEWS OF THE MANHATTAN SKYLINE, INDOOR GREENHOUSE, AND FULLY EQUIPPED INDUSTRIAL KITCHEN.

Not only did the bride and groom choose this great gem of a venue but they also chose the outstanding band the Altitude band from Around Town Entertainment.    A seven-piece band consisting of three singers, piano, bass drums, and guitar was the perfect sized combination for the space and the guests count not to mention for a night of dancing and celebration.
But before every wedding celebration begins, there must be a moment for the couple to exchange their vows.  The pianist from Around Town Entertainment performed all the important processional songs.   The bride walked down the aisle to the beautiful classic Canon in D.
Once the couple was officially married, the musician played “On top of the World” by Imagine Dragons.  This wonderful couple was definitely feeling on top of the World!

The guests enjoyed a candlelit evening of dinner and dancing. There were some really unique choices by the bride and groom for their special dance moments and wow, did the New York City wedding band hit all the marks.
They learned the newest top 40 hit “Do it to it” by Acraze for the bridal party entrance and they already knew the smash hit “Shivers” by Ed Sheeran for the bride and groom’s grand entrance.

From there it was time for the official first dance for the couple to have an intimate moment to celebrate their union.  They chose the song “You are the reason” by Calum Scott. Everybody enjoyed the moment and soon jumped in to dance along with the couple.

The bride and groom gave the band a hit list of their favorite songs along with their highlighted favorite songs from the band’s master song list of over one thousand songs to choose from. The band played so many of the bride and groom’s favorite songs as the guests dance the night away.
As is the case with almost every Around Town Entertainment wedding event the guests were chanting for more music when the band played the final last song of the evening.

The band loved to give an encore song especially since the moment felt like a true concert with the crowd going wild. What an exciting New York wedding event with just the right touch of wedding music from the favorite New York City wedding band company Around Town Entertainment.

Around Town Entertainment was thrilled to be part of this exclusive wedding event!

Le Chateau
Venue Spotlight: Le Chateau 1615 1077 adam Michaels

Venue Spotlight: Le Chateau

Le Château sits on a tall rolling hill in South Salem, New York. The ballrooms fill with golden natural sunlight which casts an elegant glow onto any amazing event that’s hosted. The venue went through a $10M renovation, which has only further played homage to the stunning views that surround it. The building boasts a roaring history which can be found in all the beautiful ornate details such as the hand detailed woodwork, grand staircases, massive stone fireplaces, and American chestnut. What a beautiful combination of current elegance and a nod to a stunning past with many celebrations throughout the years, many of which we’ve played at! We’re honored to be a longstanding recommended live music vendor of choir by Le Château!

Don’t just take our word for it! Here are some pretty rockin’ reviews from couples who partied at Le Château!

  • The entire staff of Le Chateau; especially our Maitre d’ Debbie, gave us the most perfect wedding we could ever hoped for. We visited a number of venues in making our decision. Had we known then, what we know now; Le Chateau would have been our only choice! God bless everyone at Le Chateau; we cannot thank you enough!!
  • People were so impressed by the gorgeously landscaped grounds, the DELICIOUS food, the attention to detail of all of the staff, and how quickly and thoroughly the runners/bartenders/staff catered to all guest needs. I knew Le Chateau always had my back and truly felt supported 🙂 I will miss speaking with them so regularly! Many of our guests have relayed that our wedding was the best they had ever been to. If that doesn’t say it then I don’t know what will!!! Everyone we came in contact with throughout wedding planning with Le Chateau was fabulous and extremely helpful. They truly helped make our dream wedding a reality!
  • The simplistic beauty of the ceremony garden, the stone staircases around the property, the grand ballroom with statement-level chandeliers. The views, the sunset. The property itself is enough to get married there. The food — Our guests haven’t stopped talking about it. The quality and attention to detail. Home run!
  • Le Chateau made my wedding dreams come true! The venue is beautiful, the team is spectacular, the food is amazing, and everything was perfectly executed throughout the entire day. I also know everyone says this, but all we heard from our guests was how fantastic the food was and I can only hope that I get invited to a wedding there so that I have time to try more of it! If they have availability, I would NOT hesitate at all to host your wedding here… it was a dream come true!

Here’s a highlight of some of our couples who were married at “Le Château’s” favorite songs!

It’s been an honor through the years, to be considered the live wedding band of choice and one of NY’s finest wedding venues! We hope to see you soon and dance with you at Le Château!

Why Couples Are Saying “I Do” to The Glasshouse 1920 1280 adam Michaels

Why Couples Are Saying “I Do” to The Glasshouse

If you’re in the throes of wedding planning (or just love a good venue deep dive—no judgment, we’ve all done it), you’ve probably noticed just how wide the variety is. Modern lovebirds are looking for venues that are as unique as their love stories. At Around Town Entertainment, as the premiere wedding bands in the New York area, we have played a lot of fabulous venues. But for our couples who love a sleek, modern, upscale experience, let us present The Glasshouse—a sleek, sophisticated, and downright stunning venue that’s stealing the spotlight. Let’s break down why couples are flocking to this contemporary gem.

The Views? Unmatched.

Picture this: You’re standing at the altar, your partner’s eyes locked with yours, and behind them? The most breathtaking panoramic view along the NYC skyline. It’s giving “cinematic romance” in the best way possible. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-air terrace, The Glasshouse delivers a backdrop that’ll make your wedding photos look like a high-fashion editorial spread. It’s also a perfect hybrid space, allowing for seamless transitions between their connected indoor and outdoor spaces, creating an amazing flow and distinction between the various parts of your big day! 

A Blank Canvas for Your Vision

Some venues come with so much personality – which we love when it perfectly matches yours, but they don’t leave much room for yours. Not the case here! The Glasshouse is a modern, minimalist dream that lets your vision shine. Whether you’re dreaming of a lush, floral wonderland in an industrialist chic space or a sleek, moody vibe with twinkling candlelight, the Glasshouse transforms effortlessly to match your aesthetic.

Space to Celebrate Big Love

Worried about cramming your guest list into a tiny ballroom? Concerned no one will have enough elbow room to successfully cut into their fabulous entree? Not here. The Glasshouse boasts 75,000 square feet of event space—so whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or an all-out bash, there’s room for everyone (yes, even your mom’s entire book club). And that’s just the floor space – don’t get us started on the incredible high ceilings, stretching to 27 feet at their highest points, and 17 feet throughout the majority of the space. Plus, the venue’s multiple levels mean you can keep things fresh, from a rooftop ceremony to a chic indoor reception. 

In the last year alone, the Glasshouse hosted an Indian wedding with 400 guests, and an Orthodox Jewish wedding with, wait for it, 700 guests. When we say this place can hold a lot of folks, we mean it; and in a city not exactly known for exceptionally large venues, the Glasshouse really sets itself apart – all without ever feeling cavernous or lacking the intimacy you want on your big day.  

VIP-Level Amenities

Let’s talk perks. The Glasshouse isn’t just pretty—it’s practical. Think state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities, including LED panels and display monitors available onsite, suspended from a grid system to maximize event space. There’s built-in lighting that sets the perfect mood, and even a VIP suite so you and your bridal party can get ready in style. Oh, and did we mention there’s a helicopter landing pad? Because yes, that’s absolutely a thing. Talk about making an entrance your guests will never forget! 

Location, Location, Location! 

Right in the heart of Manhattan, and overlooking the Hudson River at Pier 88, The Glasshouse is easily accessible for local and out-of-town guests alike. Whether your crew is hopping in an Uber or flying in for the occasion, getting to your wedding will be a breeze. Conveniently, the location allows your guests to feel that they’re both in the city, while also having a stunning view of the river, all of which allows for more natural light (especially at sunset), and less noise pollution! The Glasshouse also has two other locations, one located overlooking Bryant Park, and the other in Chelsea, both of which are somewhat smaller than the flagship location. 

Leave it to the Experts

Oh yeah, we said experts. The Glasshouse comes equipped with Venue Producers – talented and highly experienced individuals who are some of the best in the business when it comes to bringing your specific vision to life. They bring a personal touch and hands-on approach to the whole experience, from the planning stages to the big day itself, when you’ll find them onsite, on the floor, coordinating, communicating, and keeping everything flowing smoothly throughout, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. 

The Takeaway

Couples today want more than just a venue—they want an experience. The Glasshouse delivers that and more, with jaw-dropping views, versatile space, and top-tier amenities. If you’re looking for a wedding venue that blends modern luxury with endless customization, this might just be the one (other than your fiancé, of course).

Now, who’s ready to pop some champagne and start planning?

Inquire about booking your wedding at The Glasshouse by visiting their website and connecting with their team!

Tactics to Get Everyone on the Dance Floor at Your Wedding
Tactics to Get Everyone on the Dance Floor at Your Wedding 650 450 adam Michaels

Tactics to Get Everyone on the Dance Floor at Your Wedding

One of the highlights of your wedding reception will likely be dancing the night away surrounded by your nearest and dearest. A packed wedding dance floor is the ultimate sign of an amazing party—and an empty one is a huge mood-killer. So how do you keep your guests out of their seats and dancing, as opposed to mingling at their tables or, even worse, congregating in the venue lobby or bathroom? We highlight the best secrets to get your guests on the dance floor all night long!

Let the pros control the playlist.

The average wedding reception includes about 40-50 songs—and you don’t have to choose every one of them. Feel free to provide a few important songs to our band whether it’s from Soundcloud or Spotify, give them the freedom to read your crowd and choose songs accordingly. Let the band do what he/she was hired to do.

Manage your expectations.

The size of your guest list will have a big impact on the wedding dance floor. If there are only 50 guests in attendance, the dance floor probably won’t be packed all night long. If there are 500 guests, then there should be people on the dance floor consistently throughout the evening.

Take requests in advance.

Allowing your wedding guests to make song requests may make them more interested in staying on the dance floor. The best way to field requests? Include a section on your wedding website that allows guests to share their song requests. That way, you can review them (just in case your troublemaking cousin tries to add that tune he knows you hate), and pass them on to your music pro.

Don’t interrupt the flow.

Most music pros recommend serving your entire wedding meal (including toasts and speeches) and then having an uninterrupted dance session afterward. In our own experience, we’ve witnessed that breaks in the dancing can crush any momentum. If you want to keep your guests dancing, you may want to skip traditions like the bouquet and garter tosses—which tend to clear the floor quickly.

Start the night off right.

The song that welcomes guests to the dance floor, usually after the first dance or parent dances, is a crucial one. Different music pros have different opinions on the right tune for this moment. Set a good example. The biggest reason why you lose people on the dance floor is that the couple just isn’t there. People pay attention to where the couple is and what they’re doing. Make sure you take your wedding portraits before the reception and greet and mingle with guests during cocktail hour and dinner, so you aren’t taken away from the dance floor for too long (remember, you can take breaks to rest your feet or use the bathroom!). And enlist your wedding party to join you—it’s part of their “job” to have a great time and get their groove on.

Trick ‘em with a group photo.

If you’re worried that guests will be shy about making their move to the dance floor, here’s a secret wedding emcee trick: reel them in by calling for a group photo. After the specialty dances, we see a lot of clients bringing everyone to the dance floor to get a group photo with the couple in front. Then once the photos are taken, our band can drop into a fun song and everyone is already on the dance floor so they usually stay there.

Don’t go overboard on the slow songs.

We recommend keeping the slow songs to a minimum—only playing between one and three slower tunes during the evening. We will say that it will keep everybody on the dance floor more with faster dancing songs than with slow songs.

Consider a “soft closing”

One of the trends we see is the idea of a “soft close” at the end of the reception. Instead of keeping the partying going until the last minute and then abruptly stopping the music, he recommends stopping the raucous music a few minutes early, giving guests time to gather their things, say goodbye, and maybe take a last-minute selfie. It’s all about having that smooth transition to the end of the night

Open the Dancefloor to Everyone After the First Dance

Get people up and dancing as soon as your first dance is complete. This part of the evening should signal the beginning of the party and the opening of the dance floor.

Inviting everyone onto the floor can be done with a quick announcement by your wedding DJ or your bridal party dancing and dragging other guests onto the dance floor.

You should also pick epic party-starter music after your first dance or ask us to play a tried and tested tune that fills the dancefloor.

Be A Good Example

The biggest reason people don’t dance at the reception party for an extended time is that the happy couple is not there. Make sure you are the first ones on the dance floor as soon as your band starts pumping music and the last ones off at the end of the night – of course, you can take breaks to rest your feet.

Greet and mingle with your guests and take wedding group photos during cocktail hour or dinner. That way, you’ll be free to hit the floor and can spend more time with your loved ones there.

 

The Palm House
Romantic Spring Wedding at the Palm House 900 663 adam Michaels

Romantic Spring Wedding at the Palm House

From The Bride… A few years ago I took some recreational flower arranging classes at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and took note of the Palm House, a beautiful glass greenhouse nestled in the garden. A few years later, after Brendan and I got engaged, we visited the Palm House and I fell in love with it again—as a wedding venue! The garden’s romantic, elegant aesthetic and proximity to our home in Brooklyn made it the perfect location for us.

The venue really served as the inspiration for our wedding, and we decided to play up the natural beauty of the setting with a garden theme focused on shades of purple, silver accents, and succulents. I choose a beautiful Mikaella gown that had flower lace details on the bodice and a sheer organza overlay that I thought complemented the organic feel of the venue. Serving as my own wedding planner, I was heavily involved in the design of the wedding, and really enjoyed infusing little personal touches along the way. I did the calligraphy on the invitations and escort cards, assembled all the wedding favors (personalized M&Ms in mini glass jars with leaf tags), and made table numbers (painted wooden numbers on a moss ball) and wedding signage. I enlisted my dad to paint all the props for the photobooth and he totally surprised me with his hidden artistic talent! Designs by Ahn not only made beautiful bouquets and gorgeous arrangements, but also fulfilled my dream of having succulents in silver buckets serve as escort card holders.

Despite a brutally cold winter in New York, and a much delayed spring, magnolias miraculously bloomed the day before our wedding and our wedding day was warm and sunny. I walked down the aisle to “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles, sung by two of my talented bridesmaids. We said our vows beneath the blossoms, with the sun setting behind us, and I reveled in how happy and lucky we were to marry each other in such a beautiful setting, surrounded by the love of our family and friends. Judy Pak did a phenomenal job capturing the day with gorgeous images, and we danced the night away on the packed dance floor, thanks to our outstanding band, the A-Town Band. CharlesSallyCharles, the caterers at the Palm House, not only served up delicious food, but were tireless in ensuring that the day proceeded smoothly. I can’t thank my vendors enough for making our wedding the amazingly fun and memorable day that it was! Check out more of the venues we perform at here.