The coronavirus pandemic has caught countless couples by surprise, causing many to overhaul their original wedding plans. Rather than postponing the ceremony indefinitely, some are electing to hold safer, smaller weddings, known as “micro weddings.” With the right venue, guest list, and quality wedding photography, these intimate ceremonies can be just as beautiful as a big celebration. 

A Guide to Micro Weddings

What Is a Micro Wedding?

In general terms, a micro wedding is a small marriage ceremony with approximately 20 guests. It is often shorter, simpler to organize, and more casual an affair. With fewer guests attending, micro weddings feel more intimate. You get to spend more one-on-one time with guests and create lasting memories that everyone will share. They are also more budget-friendly, which means you can splurge on a couture dress, a spectacular venue with a rooftop or exceptional food.

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, safety is more important than ever. A micro wedding makes it easier to limit the number of guests, distance attendees, and hold outdoor ceremonies where COVID-19 is less likely to spread.

Where Can You Hold a Micro Wedding?

Well-ventilated, open-air venues are the best choices for micro weddings at this time. While your ceremony and portraits could take place in a garden or back yard, another unique and safe spot to host celebrate your wedding is on a rooftop. If you don’t have access to a private rooftop in NYC, you might know someone who does. Otherwise, a plethora of New York City rooftop venues create the perfect location for an intimate, socially distanced ceremony.

To ensure the safety of you, your future spouse, and your guests, please consider these gorgeous Brooklyn and Manhattan rooftop venues. (Please ensure you check with them about their COVID-19 rules and any changes to their schedules) :

• Ravel Hotel/The Penthouse

• Top of the Box, Boxhouse Hotel, Brooklyn

• Mondrian Terrace, NoMad, Manhattan

• The Press Lounge, Ink Hotel, Manhattan

• Azul Rooftop, SoHo

• Ainslie, Brooklyn

• Westlight NYC, Brooklyn

• Refinery Rooftop, Manhattan

• Summerly Rooftop Restaurant, Brooklyn

• Tribeca Rooftop, Manhattan

• City Vineyard at Pier 26

• The Bordone LIC

• Dobbin St.

Why Rooftops Are Perfect for Micro Wedding Photos

Not only do rooftops provide the perfect outdoor venue, but they also make excellent backdrops for wedding photography. Whether they overlook the East River, the Manhattan skyline, a garden, or other picturesque features, rooftops highlight the best views of NYC. Skilled wedding photographers utilize the abundant natural lighting to capture the unique and intimate nature of each individual ceremony.

While weddings may need to be small-scale at the moment, that doesn’t mean you can’t invest in a professional photographer to capture these joyful moments in a time of uncertainty.

Highlight the beauty, elegance and intimacy of your micro wedding with the professional and creative work of Karen Wise Photography. Perfecting the art of wedding photography for over 15 years, Karen combines technical expertise with her experiences with the fine arts to capture masterful imagery that you and your loved ones will cherish for years to come. To start making arrangements for your wedding, call (917) 539-9908. Take a look at her portfolio online to view her stunning wedding and engagement photography. To learn more about current, past, and upcoming projects, visit Karen’s blog.