Cost of a Wedding at Plaza Hotel in New York: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a wedding at the prestigious Plaza Hotel in New York City can be an exciting yet daunting task. The hotel is known for its grandeur and historical significance, making it an ideal venue for a special day. However, the costs can vary widely, and it's essential to have a clear understanding of what to expect before proceeding with your plans. This guide will break down the typical costs, providing a comprehensive overview of what you can expect for a September 2023 wedding.

Typical Cost Breakdown

The cost of a wedding at the Plaza Hotel in New York can range from approximately $20,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on various factors. Still, for a wedding with around 100 guests, expect to pay anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 or more. Here is a detailed breakdown of the typical expenses:

Base Cost

Per person cost: $200 to $400, which may include catering, venue rental, and basic services. Total cost for 100 guests: $20,000 to $40,000.

Special Venue and Services

Sample total for 250 guests: Between $450,000 and $500,000. Grand Ballroom: Venue rental fee of $15,000, covering the use of the space, tables, chairs, and basic audio-visual equipment. Food and beverage: Approximately $400 per person for a plated dinner. Alcohol: Around $100 per person for an open bar. Entertainment (live band): Approximately $5,000. Photography and videography (preferred vendors): Around $10,000 for a photographer and videographer. Decorations and rentals: About $5,000. Service charge and sales tax: 18% service charge and 8.875% sales tax on all wedding-related charges. Wedding planner: Approximately $40,000. Other expenses: Video/photos, transportation, wedding clothing, hair/makeup, officiant, and entertainment (based on the average cost, approximately $100,000).

Consideration of Special Events

Additional considerations include planning rehearsals and extending the wedding for extra days, which come with hourly fees. For example, renting the Palm Court and Oak Room would cost an additional $30,000 per room.

Typical Breakdown

As a former Plaza bride, I can share a more detailed breakdown of the costs:

Terrace Room

Terrace Room rental: $13,000

Main Reception and Food/drink

Reception and food and drink: $475 per person plus taxes and gratuity (approximately $515 per person).

Extra Costs

Required lighting and sound: $38,000, with an in-house company. Decorations: $180,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the scale and complexity (required to meet the hotel's insurance requirements). Wedding planners: $40,000 (realistically necessary to organize such a large wedding). Cake: $5,500. Bride and groom rooms: Included in the base cost.

Other miscellaneous costs include video, photos, transportation, clothing, hair/makeup, officiant, and entertainment, totaling around $100,000.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning a wedding at the Plaza Hotel requires careful budgeting and a clear understanding of the various costs involved. It's crucial to have a detailed plan and to contact the hotel directly for the most current pricing and special offers. By taking the time to consider all the factors, you can ensure your special day is both memorable and financially feasible.