Getting married is always a busy, exciting event. While the day itself is the only thing that matters, you will have months and months of non-stop preparation to get to that day. Some people want a small, quiet wedding somewhere secluded, but others just go full out. And that’s exactly what you can do in New York, the capital of the world. But in such a huge state with so many options, it can be too easy to get lost in the waters, so here are the top tips that will help you host the best New York wedding possible.

Get an organizer

It is nearly guaranteed that if you are just planning the wedding part-time while also living your life, you will not find the best opportunities that are on offer. New York simply has so many things going on that unless you are absolutely set on every single detail before you even start, you will definitely need some help. Wedding organizers will help you get the best experience for the best price, and they are always worth it. Find someone who you trust and click with. Tell them your ideas, and ask them to be honest with you about whether or not your wishes are realistic. When meeting for the first time, do your best to translate your vision: create a Pinterest board, bring references, and explain everything in detail.

Use the theme of your surroundings

A great part about having an NYC wedding is that you don’t have to look for an appropriate theme: you already have it. Your decoration, invitations, outfits, music, and even food can all be New York inspired and it will be something your guests will certainly remember. The important thing here is not to go too wide: you can’t have all things NY in one event. Choose your favorite area – whether you’re having the wedding there or not – and go with that. There are so many vivid neighborhoods and districts with distinct styles that you will be sure to find something you like.

Wow with the food

Sure, steak, fish, and chicken are all great, but it doesn’t exactly scream New York. What you want is to find catering companies in NYC that will provide a unique and customizable experience for you. Things like street food can be great, but you can also dabble in molecular gastronomy that some NY restaurants are famous for. Of course, you absolutely mustn’t forget to include some jaw-dropping cocktails, since New York is the birthplace of some of the most signature drinks in the world. As for the wedding cake, you can keep it classic, or you can go all out by having the skyline drawn out around the tiers, or have the whole cake be in the shape of the Empire State Building. Now that’s a showstopper!

Memorable details

After a brilliant ceremony and a fun party, your guests want to have something to remember the day. But the generic gift just won’t cut it for this amazing wedding. What you want to do is look at local people who are amazing at different crafts that represent New York. Custom cards with NY sights, miniature NY cheesecakes and other details that represent you, as well as the state.

Music

Because it’s such a vibrant scene and there are so many young artists, it’s a shame to create a playlist and listen to recordings. Look for local musicians and bands that play the music you like and hire them to perform at the party. If you have a special song that you want them to play, for example for the first dance, tell them in advance so that they can make a cover in their own style. If you are a fan of electronic music, you can also have a local DJ come to perform either throughout the party, or later in the evening.

Try to time your wedding in the fall for the best weather, but keep in mind that you should book your venue well in advance, because most weddings in NY take place in the fall, and you don’t want to have to lose your spot and get married in the winter cold (unless that’s your thing). Make sure you add some of your personal touches into the ceremony, and you will have an absolutely amazing day!