A Glam, Eclectic-Chic Wedding at The Bowery Hotel in New York City, New York
Aya Cody (34 and an event producer) and Rich Estrin (35 and an actor and model) planned a glam soiree with old world flair for their fall nuptials in New York City. Inspired by the Bowery Hotel’s eclectic decor, the couple dreamed up a “Post Hunt Renaissance Banquet” theme, with each area of the hotel boasting its own distinct feel and decor. “We loved the layout of the Bowery, with all the separate areas that could be revealed over the course of the night,” says Aya. “Our genius designer Christian Fastrup worked with what the Bowery already had in place and elevated it. There were so many unique details around every corner, on every surface, and a new theme revealed in every room for the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner and dancing.”
No element was overlooked, including the couple’s interfaith ceremony. The couple combined traditions from their Jewish and Buddhist backgrounds, including a Sake ceremony, a show-stopping chuppah and seven blessings, and a string ensemble filled the air with moving renditions of traditional and modern tunes.
After exchanging vows, the couple kicked the festivities into full swing with a live jazz band, signature cocktails and mouth-watering eats. A Dominique Ansel croquembouche-cake creation and a dessert table jam-packed with the chef’s signature sweets was a big hit with guests, as were gourmet jello shots passed out on the dance floor. A buffet-style approach to dinner allowed guests to dine at their leisure, and a roasted peanut cart at the end of the night paid homage to a classic NYC street food staple.
The reception was divided up over three different spaces, dubbed the “Pumpkin Patch,” the “Antler Lodge,” and the “Garden of Eden.” The Pumpkin Patch in the outdoor area served as an ode to the fall season; The Antler Lodge was dressed to the nines with silver antler candle holders; and the Garden of Eden played host to dinner, with statues of Adam and Even gracing the bistro tables, and roses, fruits and vegetables forming striking centerpieces.The Garden of Eden also had a striking tablescape complete with a taxidermy fox, red lobsters, ostrich eggs, starfish and other bright color elements mixed in with florals to convey the 'Post Hunt Renaissance Banquet" theme.
“The format of the reception really reflects us as a couple. We didn't want a formal seated dinner, but rather an extended cocktail style reception so guests could keep mingling, eating and dancing at their own pace,” says Aya. “Rich and I love entertaining and wanted everyone to feel comfortable and relaxed. It worked out so well: Everyone had a seat when they needed one and people from different parts of our lives who we would have never expected to even meet one another were chatting with each other all night long.”