1. Real Weddings

A Sophisticated Library Wedding in New York, NY

The moment Jessie French (29 and a production manager for MTV) and Craig Spain (39 and director of content production for MTV) set foot in The New Yor

The moment Jessie French (29 and a production manager for MTV) and Craig Spain (39 and director of content production for MTV) set foot in The New York Public Library, their jaws dropped. Their love for the iconic library inspired their bookish, cosmopolitan day. Drawing on their venue and literary classics like the The Thin Man—a prohibition-era detective novel set in New York City—Jessie and Craig crafted a timeless, city-chic affair full of dramatic lighting, meaningful details and real-life librarians.

Calla lilies frozen inside blocks of ice were the focal point of the square reception tables. Votives, purple uplighting and pinspotting created a romantic glow in the library’s Celeste Bartos Forum.
Reception Site with Yellow Lighting
Ceremony in the Library
Ice Encased Calla Lily Centerpieces
Rose and Purple Artichoke Floral Arrangement
Librarians Help Guests Find Seats
Literary Ceremony Decor
Couple's Shot in Front of the Library
Library Card Catalogue Escort Cards
Cheese Table at Cocktail Hour
Happy Newlyweds
Naked Wedding Cake
Antique Book Ceremony Decor
Lightbulb Ceremony Decor
Letting their stunning wedding canopy take center stage, Jessie and Craig added only a crimson curtain and lucite Louis Ghost chairs to the library’s Astor Hall.
Jessie and Craig’s custom wedding canopy was truly a work of art. The installation was made from 300 antique books and 500 lightbulbs that hung from its roof
Jessie held a sleek bunch of cream calla lilies — the perfect complement to her glamorous, form-fitting beaded gown.
Mismatched Bridesmaids
Scabiosa Boutonniere
The New York Public Library
Calla Lily Centerpieces