We discovered Marina del Rey almost by accident. After visiting 10 venues and researching countless more, it became clear by the end of our first tour—this was the one. From that m...oment, Joe and Hanna guided us through six months of planning with ease, care, and creativity, turning our vision into reality on our unforgettable wedding day.
Our ceremony took place outdoors under the pergola overlooking the Long Island Sound, surrounded by about 200 people including our families, closest friends and vendor staff. Marina provides a waterfront oasis while still being in New York City, and its outdoor area features a tastefully installed retractable roof, should it be required. On our day, we had perfect weather and after the ceremony our guests ventured onto Marina's white wooden pier to enjoy the sun against the silhouette of Manhattan and the soothing sounds of the waves below. They explored the beautifully landscaped grounds on their way to cocktail hour in the Florentine Room.
During cocktail hour, our guests enjoyed the “his and hers” cocktails we had planned, sushi prepared by a chef before their eyes, and such a variety of food that many had to be reminded to leave room for the reception! Inside the immense Bellagio Room, our guests were treated to a three-course meal with plenty more to eat, drink, and enjoy. Many later raved about the seafood, Italian specialties, the “seconds” that came around, and the two varieties of cake provided by a local bakery, Cestras, that partners with Marina. The food remains the top compliment we receive still today; how much there was, and how good it was.
As a newlywed couple, we couldn’t have asked for more and continue to relive this special day in our hearts and minds. Marina del Rey also worked with us throughout the planning process to seamlessly blend nods to our Persian and Puerto Rican heritage with personalized touches, including cultural tables, menu options, and signage. Hanna was always available to meet and help us plan for the big day, and Joe always had the right solution for every problem we could think up. Our vendors had a smooth experience working with Marina and the venue has plenty of locations that will lend itself to your photo and video team doing amazing work, including golden hour on the pier, group photos on the patio, and family portraits by the lobby and fountain. And finally, our guests all easily reached the location, conveniently located with a parking lot in the Throgs Neck neighborhood of the Bronx and within sight of Long Island, Queens, Manhattan and a 15 minute drive from Westchester.
Working with Marina was such a joy. From sampling Cestras' cakes by the water as the sun set over Manhattan to finalizing décor with Gabby over a cold glass, or strolling the picturesque pier, every experience brought us joy and built anticipation for our September wedding.
On the big day, Tonia, our bridal attendant, anticipated our needs before we even realized them, ensuring every detail was seamless. She kept us fed, presentable, and ready for every special moment. Joe’s impeccable planning meant the celebration never missed a beat. Our guests were in awe—from the waterfront ceremony to the lavish cocktail hour to the elegant three-course dinner and the nonstop energy on the dance floor.
We’re still glowing from the love and magic of that day. Huge thanks to Hanna, Joe, Tonia, Gabby, and the entire Marina team for creating a celebration that exceeded our dreams. Marina del Rey wasn’t just a venue—it was the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable beginning to our forever.