Planning a Wedding at the Rainbow Room: Cost, Design Ideas, and What to Expect
Few venues feel as quintessentially New York as the Rainbow Room. Perched high above Rockefeller Center, the space has hosted celebrations for nearly a century and remains one of the most iconic places to host a wedding in the city. Its classic New York, with a modern twist.
Rainbow Room has it all - skyline views, outdoor space, art deco architecture, and an incredible history. It offers couples a truly classic New York setting, right in the middle of Manhattan, while still feeling modern and fresh.
At Emlan Events, we love working in spaces like this: venues that already have strong architectural character but can be transformed through thoughtful design and production details.
Why Couples Love the Rainbow Room
The Views: Located on the 65th floor, in the middle of Rockefeller Center, the Rainbow Room offers panoramic views of Manhattan. You can see north and south, east and west, and even have some outdoor space to experience it all.
The Architecture: The art deco design lends itself to a classic New York experience. The iconic circular (and rotating) dance floor, crystal lighting and embellishments, and dramatic ceiling offer a true sense of design. You can really lean in here or work with the architecture to create something entirely new and different.
Food & Beverage: The catering experience is top notch, offering incredible food and beverage options, staff that is prepared to serve you before you thought about your needs, and even cake from the famed Ron Ben Israel.
Ceremony, Cocktails & Reception Options
Many couples choose to host their ceremony and reception at the Rainbow Room since there are plenty of spaces and options to choose from.
Ceremony: Set in Bar SixtyFive, with sweeping views of NYC and floor to ceiling windows creating a modern glass box high in the sky
Cocktail Hour: Cocktails are typically hosted in the Gallery with perfect sunset views of the city, including the Empire State Building, the Hudson River and downtown Manhattan
Reception: Set in the famed Rainbow Room, around the iconic circular dance floor
For ketubah and marriage license signing, there are additional private spaces to host small groups within feet of the event spaces.
Additionally, there is a bridal suite onsite perfect for touchups and outfit changes.
What Does a Rainbow Room Wedding Cost?
Budgets vary depending on guest count, season, design and production details, but most weddings here fall into the luxury wedding category. For many couples, overall budgets typically range from $250,000 - $500,000 but of course design can grow that number significantly.
Factors that can influence budget:
guest count
date and season
floral design and installations
custom graphics and custom scenery
rentals, furniture and linens
entertainment options
lighting and production
Working with us can help ensure you’re maximizing the space and prioritizing design investments that make the most sense for you.
Emlan Events’ Tips for Planning a Rainbow Room Wedding
Lean into the setting. Let your design decisions lean into the art deco architecture and history of the space.
Use lighting thoughtfully. As the evening progresses, so should the lighting to help go from a soft dinner to an epic dance party.
Create moments. As your guests move through the space, keep them on their toes by creating moments in each space that will leave your guests surprised and in awe.
Planning your Wedding at the Rainbow Room
At Emlan Events, we specialize in planning and designing weddings in distinctive spaces across New York City and beyond. We love helping couples take iconic venues like the Rainbow Room and make them feel personal. By bringing in custom production and design details, and through thoughtful planning, we can create an atmosphere and vibe for guests unlike anything they’ve ever experienced before.
Want to Start Planning?
Contact us to being the conversation about your wedding at the Rainbow Room!
Planning a Rainbow Room Wedding?
At Emlan Events, we specialize in planning weddings in iconic New York venues and designing celebrations that feel personal, elevated, and unforgettable.
If you're considering a wedding at the Rainbow Room, we'd love to help bring your vision to life.