NY Athletic Club Wedding : Ellen & Michael : New York, NY

Weddings

Feb 11

Ellen & Michael's Winter Wedding at The New York Athletic Club

Manhattan knows how to do winter weddings, and Ellen & Michael's celebration at The New York Athletic Club (NYAC) was no exception. Set against the iconic backdrop of Central Park South, their big day was a masterclass in elegance and the kind of festive energy that only December in NYC can bring.

The day kicked off on the residential floor of the NYAC, where all great NYAC weddings begin. While Ellen and her bridesmaids were putting the finishing touches on hair, makeup, and good-natured banter, we captured those fleeting pre-ceremony moments. This warm-up session helps everyone relax in front of the camera before the big moments take center stage.

New York in December can be unpredictable, and so was the temperature on the NYAC rooftop! But Ellen & Michael were absolute troopers, braving the chill for their emotional first look. There's something magical about seeing each other for the first time amid a rooftop scene overlooking one of the world's most iconic skylines—even if you're quietly wishing for heated hand warmers in your pocket.

The wedding party showed similar resolve joining for some group photos on the terrace. Afterward, we moved inside to warm up and took cozy family portraits by the fireplace.

The next stop was the Church of St. Vincent Ferrer on Lexington Avenue, a Manhattan gem that embodies timeless elegance. This neo-Gothic masterpiece set the stage for a heartfelt ceremony conducted by a dear friend of the couple.

With the “I do’s” completed and spirits high, the wedding party returned to the NYAC for an unforgettable reception. Bud Maltin’s Metropolitan Music lit up the venue with unbelievable energy.

The night had everything you’d want from a winter wedding in New York. A gorgeous cake by Daniel Colonel. Stunning floral arrangements courtesy of Jerome Florists. And then, of course, there were the post-cake light-up glasses—a sign that this party wasn’t ending anytime soon.