Features

Clean Sweep

From diaphanous dresses to simple sheaths�a portfolio of winter’s dreamiest gowns.

White Party

Eskimo-rose centerpieces, calla-lily bouquets, and other wintry takes on the classics.

Playing the Standards

A discerning caterer can reimagine even the most basic of entrées. Here, a few inventive takes on beef, chicken, fish, and veggie dishes.

Dessert in 3-D

Ruffled, rice-papered, coconut-flaked, and other highly textured cakes make for an intriguing�and scrumptious�grand finale.

Ask the Experts

The Gown Designer

�Try on things you’re convinced won’t work. What you think you like least is often what looks the best.�

The Bartender

�Drinkers are more sophisticated now. They’re not making weird requests, and they have a higher tolerance for alcohol. They want their cocktails stirred and strong.�

The D.J. & Photographer

�Our favorite thing to photograph is couples getting ready together. That’s brilliant stuff.�

The Suit-Maker

�We go to guys’ homes to fit them, so there’s never any question that we’re completely focused on the customer. We’ll do fittings until 1 a.m. if we have to.�

The Officiant

�I’ve earned the name Rock-and-Roll Reverend because I do unconventional weddings. I’m not for the conservative.�

Style Guide

Tradition With a Twist

The satin is sleeker, the beading is bolder�this season’s gowns have an extra kick.

Layer Up

Nine elegant�and warm�toppers to take you from taxi to aisle.

Crowning Glory

Dramatic headbands, combs, and more. Plus, the best hairstyles to wear with each.

One Suit, Four Ways

They say the accessories make the man. Here, a quartet of highly particular shop clerks take their shot at styling the groom.

Album

It All Starts With a Question

To some, documenting the proposal is as important as capturing the wedding itself. Here, the stories behind seven memorable New York engagements.

Vintage Affair

�We wanted it to feel vintagey, but not too vintagey.�

Upstate Barn Bash

�A torrential downpour started the morning of our big day, and we had to move our ceremony into the barn.�

Candlelit Soirée

�I underestimated just how wonderful it would be until it was actually happening.�

DIY Dance Party

�The day was perfect. I would do it every year if I could.�

Fairy-Tale Fête

�I never had a specific vision for my wedding, but it ended up being the most memorable day of my life.�

The Checklist

Blurred Lines

Watercolor invitations that make a splash right out of the gate.

Fit to Wed

Whatever your goal�showing off girl guns in a strapless gown, busting a move at the reception�there’s a workout regimen to get you there.

Hot ’Tails

Heat up the party with recipes from five local barkeeps.

Grand Gestures

Local nail artisans put the drama on your fingertips.

The Day-of Emergency Kit

How stylist Jacqueline Weppner of Merci New York wards off disasters.

The Everything Guide to Kids

How to keep your pint-size guests happy, fed, and under control.

76 Years Later

What does it take to make a marriage last almost eight decades? Tom and Nina Nassisi, one of New York’s longest-married couples, weigh in.

Reception

The Second-Lives Club

A farm, a post office, a millinery, a chorizo factory, and other converted spaces that make for picturesque party spots.

Hey, Mr. D.J. �

What music-industry insiders requested at their own nuptials.

Oh, What a Night

Swank local spots to lay your head once the party’s over.

Next-Day Brunch

Keep the party going at one of these group-friendly restaurants.

Honeymoon

This Way to Nowhere

No Internet, no TV, no phone, no nothing: a dozen dream destinations for a truly off-the-radar honeymoon.