How to Drink Responsibly at a Wedding

For better or for worse, alcohol is a part of most celebrations. Here’s how to drink responsibly at a wedding.

From signature cocktails to champagne toasts and morning-after mimosas, alcoholic beverages are intwined into most weddings. And with an open bar at your disposal, it can be dangerously easy to throw caution to the wind and lose track of how much you’ve consumed. 

But trust us — you don’t want to be the subject of gossip at brunch the next day. Before you head into that reception hall, you may want to think about how to drink responsibly at a wedding.

Know your limits

Some people can drink a glass of wine or two and be fine, and some need to abstain from alcohol completely. Everyone has a slightly different relationship to alcohol, and it’s important that you know yours. 

Remember — not all drinks are created equal. A Long Island Iced Tea has more alcohol in it than a beer, so your “three drink limit” may need some adjustments based off of what you’re drinking. 

Don’t skip the food

Let’s be honest, this shouldn’t be hard to do. There is so much delicious food at a wedding, and most of the time you leave pretty stuffed. Having food in your stomach slows the rate at which alcohol is absorbed into your system. So pack that plate at cocktail hour! 

Image courtesy of Marco Photography

Refill your water glass

Staying hydrated is super important, even if you’re not drinking any alcohol (you can really work up a sweat on the dance floor!) A good rule of thumb is to drink one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage that you consume. 

Have an “accountabili-buddy”

If you’re worried about the night getting out of hand, enlist a friend to help keep you accountable. They can give you a friendly tap when you’re getting ready to order “just one more,” and they can let you know that you’re doing that “thing” you do after too many White Claws that everyone else finds…well…a little annoying. 

Pace yourself

Before you refill your champagne glass in the bridal suite, remember — you’ve got an entire day ahead of you. You don’t want to be already hungover before the bridal party makes their entrance, so slow down your consumption early in the day. 

Image courtesy of Focus Studios

Know what you’re drinking

That signature cocktail looks amazing, but you and tequila have a long history. Before ordering, have an idea of what you’re getting ready to drink. Some cocktails have way more alcohol in them than you think they do, and certain liquors have higher alcohol content than others.

That goes for beer and wine, too! When in doubt, pull out your phone and look up your beverages ABV (alcohol by volume). The higher the percentage, the more alcohol in the drink. 

Have a ride home ready

This goes without saying, but always have transportation worked out for the end of the night. If you’re driving yourself and others, it’s vitally important that you’re sober before getting behind the wheel. Knowing that you’re driving should strongly dictate how much you’re going to be drinking during the evening (spoiler alert: it should be minimal). 

Even if you’ve got a ride home, keep your drinking in moderation. You’ll be so happy you did when you wake up bright-eyed the next morning!

If your drinking feels out of control, contact a mental health professional. 

 

Emily and Tracy work to ensure you can include your fur babies on your big day.

Have you ever wanted to include your pets on your wedding day, but weren’t sure about the logistics? Look no further than BOLI Preferred Vendor Love & Leashes. Owners Emily and Tracy will not only bring your furry friends to your venue, they will stay by their side to make sure they’re taken care of – before, during and after you say ‘I do.’

Boarding and Beyond

What started as private in-home boarding a few years ago has turned into so much more for Emily and Tracy. “Before I met Tracy, I was boarding dogs while people would go on vacation,” said Emily. “When one of my regulars asked me to bring her dog to her wedding, I saw the opportunity to expand.” About two years ago, Love & Leashes was born when Emily and Tracy teamed up.

For weddings, they provide everything from transportation to hands-on companionship throughout the day. “We ensure dogs are leashed, well-behaved and cared for so couples can focus on celebrating,” said Emily. They arrive fully prepared — like photographers with their gear — bringing essentials such as poop bags, cooling mats, blankets, towels, lint rollers and even the dog’s favorite treats or toys to keep them happy and engaged during photos.

“The most common request we hear is, ‘Can you make sure my dog doesn’t jump on my dress?’” said Tracy. “Couples want peace of mind, and that’s exactly what we provide.” The pair will walk dogs down the aisle, help with photos and coordinate with planners and photographers so everything runs smoothly. “Whether it’s a short appearance or an eight-hour wedding, we’re there to make sure every moment with their pet is joyful and stress-free,” said Tracy.

(Photo by KP Media)

Part of the Family

But what if your fur baby gets anxious or isn’t great around strangers? Emily and Tracy assure brides that the dogs they care for are treated like their own. “Our philosophy of boarding is folding dogs right into our family,” said Tracy. “We both have large fenced-in yards, plenty of space to play and if they’d rather curl up on the couch and watch NatGeo or football, they get to do that too. We want them to feel loved and treated just as our own pets are.” Emily added, “Before any stay — whether it’s for a wedding or regular boarding — we always do a meet and greet. Couples bring their pup to see our home, meet our families and get comfortable with our own dogs so everything feels smooth and safe.” The pair say they don’t use crates, unless that is what the dogs are used to. Basically, they want your dogs to live exactly how they live at home. And while they have only taken care of dogs during weddings, they are definitely open to any other pets couples have.

Training for the Big Day

That extra care extends to wedding prep, especially for pups who may be nervous. “Because the dogs know us, they trust us and they feel our energy,” said Tracy. “We’re their advocates, making sure they’re calm, comfortable and never put in situations that could make them anxious. If a dog is timid, we’ll take them for an extra walk or give them space away from the crowd.” Emily recalled one special success story: Bailey. “She had a long history of anxiety, but her owners really wanted her in their wedding,” she said. “Over 10 months, she came to my house once a month — starting with short visits and building up to sleepovers — so she could get used to us.” By the time the wedding came, Bailey pranced down the aisle like she was the star of the show. “That transformation was incredible,” said Emily.

Favorite Moments With Your Fur Baby

For Emily and Tracy, the joy of their work comes from witnessing the sweetest, most genuine moments between couples and their pets. “The first look with mom is one of my favorites,” said Emily. “A lot of times dogs will board with us the night before, so they haven’t seen their parents for a day or two. The excitement of their little butt wiggles and wagging tails when they see their mom is just so sweet.”

Tracy shared that her favorite memories happen when dogs realize they’re surrounded by familiar faces. “The greeting before walking into a ceremony or cocktail hour is just adorable. All of a sudden, the dog is like, ‘wait, I know all these people, and they know me.’ It’s the most heartwarming thing,” she said. Tracy also treasures the quieter moments, like when a pup pauses before walking down the aisle. “It’s that instant where the dog looks at their mom or dad, and we capture it behind the scenes.” And they want couples to know that they won’t go anywhere until you get all the moments you want. They will advocate for you so your vision truly comes to life.

A Trusted Part of Your Day

What makes Love & Leashes so special isn’t just the care they provide—it’s the joy they get from being part of the celebration itself. “We get to listen to incredible ceremonies,” said Tracy. “It’s such an honor to witness weddings over and over again, each one so different. What’s amazing is how often dogs are included in so many aspects. These dogs are so loved, and it feels really special to be trusted with someone’s most precious baby on their wedding day.”

They can be a delight, but they can also be unpredictable. Should you have dogs at your wedding?

They’re cute, they’re cuddly, and they can bring out the “awws” from all around. Our dogs are more than just furry friends — they’re cherished members of our family.

When it comes to your wedding though, including your fur fam in on the action can get a little complicated. You’d much rather invite them than your Great Uncle Bob, but at least there’s no chance that Great Uncle Bob will start barking during your vows or…umm..”relieving himself” in the aisle (not before the open bar, anyway).

Dogs can be unpredictable, uncontrollable, and cause some unwanted chaos on a day that’s already pretty chaotic. Should you chance it and have them be a part of the festivities, or should you just pop their face on a cocktail napkin and leave it at that? Here are a few pros and cons to dogs at your wedding.

Pro: They’re adorable

Yes, your dog is the cutest. We definitely agree with you, and so do all of your friends and family. Getting them in a fancy outfit and crowning them ring bearer or flower girl will get your guests buzzing and create an unforgettable moment in your big day.

Plus, a little fido snuggle in the bridal suite is best way to calm your pre-ceremony jitters.

Con: They’re unpredictable

Listen, there’s reason you have a “please don’t ring the doorbell” sign on your front door. Dogs can be very unpredictable, and certain sounds, smells, or sights could set them off. A wedding could be a very stressful environment for them, and their reactions or behavior could stress you out in turn.

The solution? Pet attendants like BOLI Preferred Vendor and 2025 Diamond Award Winner Love and Leashes! They can be your pet’s “plus one” for the day, caring for them during all of the moments that matter. 

Image courtesy of Studio 27 Photography

Pro: They’ll make your pictures unique and special

You’ve got the rest of your family on your shot list — mom, dad, grandma, there’s Great Uncle Bob again — why WOULDN’T you include your pup? Having your dogs in your wedding day pictures can make them that much more special, and fully symbolize your WHOLE family. 

Con: It may take more time to get the shots

Remember when we said they’re “unpredictable?” That could throw a wrench in your timeline. Getting them to sit still, look at the camera, chasing after them when they’ve gotten distracted — it can all add valuable minutes onto your photo time, which could put you behind schedule.

Love and Leashes can come to the rescue here, too! They can keep your pup calm, cool, and collected before their photo op. And once the cameras are off and it’s time to party, Love and Leashes can board your pets until they’re ready to be picked up. 

Pro: They can be a wedding witness

 Yes! New York State allows your best fur bud to be a witness at your wedding. Put some ink on your pooch’s paw and have them sign your wedding certificate!

Con: You’ll still need a human witness

According to the New York State Department of Health, you’ll need at least one witness that would be “competent to testify in a court preceding as to what he or she witnessed.” So unless your dog has the capacity for language, you’ll still need a human witness too. But hey, the more the merrier!  

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Samantha talks about how her love of antiquing inspired the perfect touches for her wedding day.

While Samantha and JJ may have had a typical online meeting, their relationship took an unconventional turn quickly. This cross-country pair settled on Long Island and planned the perfect romantic winter wedding day earlier this year.

A Cross-Country Adventure

Samantha and JJ’s romance began in December 2016 when she joined Bumble with a friend on a whim. The pair hit it off, but when Samantha learned JJ was just visiting Long Island and he actually lived in Los Angeles, she told him she just wanted to remain friends. JJ’s persistence and charm won her over, however. “After a month of talking, he invited me on a trip with his friends to New Orleans,” she said. “I was in my early 20s, and I had vowed that 2017 would be my ‘yes’ year. So I went, and we had a blast.” They spent a year navigating a long-distance relationship, flying back and forth between coasts before JJ moved back to Long Island.

By March 2023, Samantha and JJ were ready to take the next step. “We had talked about how I wanted something simple when he proposed,” she explains. JJ proposed on Walker Beach in Bay Shore, a quiet local spot close to the Lake House, where their families were gathered for dinner. “He was so nervous,” she said, laughing. “I sort of knew he was going to propose, as he never wants to take random walks. And we had never been to this beach before.” The celebration continued the next day at their home, where a planned baseball kickoff party for JJ’s birthday doubled as an engagement party with all their friends.

Finding the Perfect Venue

When it came to planning, Samantha and JJ took a thoughtful approach. They spent a month discussing finances, guest lists and priorities before diving into venue searches. For Samantha, the venue was the most important piece. “I wanted a romantic vintage vibe and a team that could bring that vision to life,” she explained. For JJ, the focus was on music and making sure guests had an unforgettable time on the dance floor. Together, they agreed that the venue, food, DJ and photography were their top priorities, setting the foundation for a celebration that felt both seamless and joyful.

Their search led them to tour 13 venues in just a month, but the decision ultimately came by chance. “We were actually set on another venue, when my mom reminded me that we had an appointment at the Mansion at Oyster Bay, [a BOLI Preferred Venue],” Samantha said. “When I walked through the doors, I knew it was the one. It had the exact vibe I was looking for.” Within two hours, she and JJ signed with the venue, and it did not disappoint. From the maitre d’ to the bridal attendant, the staff exceeded every expectation and made the couple feel supported on their wedding day.

Creating that Vintage Vibe

For Samantha, creating a romantic vintage vibe was at the heart of her wedding design. A lifelong lover of antiques, she leaned into warm winter tones—mauves, purples, and creams—and dressed her bridesmaids in velvet to heighten the cozy, romantic feel. She scoured estate sales and Facebook Marketplace for brass candelabras and unique centerpieces. One of her favorite details was a refurbished vintage phone chair she found online, which became the perfect setting for their phone guest book. “I actually donated it to the Mansion afterward so future brides could enjoy it,” she said. Other subtle touches included custom matchbooks at the bar, drink stirrers and a crest on the invitations—all designed to enhance the atmosphere without overwhelming it. The Mansion at Oyster Bay’s timeless elegance provided the perfect backdrop, making it easy to execute Samantha’s vision of a wedding that felt personal, romantic and beautifully vintage.

A Moment of Calm

Samantha and JJ exchanged vows at St. Joseph’s in Babylon, the church where both her grandparents and parents had been married. The pair waited to have their first look when Samantha walked down the aisle. After the ceremony and photos, the newlyweds were ready for their moment of quiet in their bridal suite – enjoying the delicious cocktail hour food the staff had put out for them. “That moment was so important,” Samantha recalled. “We finally sat alone, looked at each other, and said, ‘We’re married.’ Hearing the laughter outside while having that private pause was bliss. All the work was done, and now we could just enjoy ourselves and celebrate with our loved ones.”

Obviously, Samantha and JJ were thrilled with all of their vendors, but two stood out as truly exceptional. BOLI Preferred Vendor High Voltage, led by Anthony—who Samantha had first worked with at her sweet 16—kept the dance floor packed all night. From seamless communication to thoughtful extras like signage, guest book setup and even a surprise upgrade to their reception design, Anthony and his team went above and beyond. “Guests still rave about the playlist,” she said. 

Equally memorable was Kaela from Tower Flowers Nesconset, who brought Samantha’s romantic vintage vision to life with honesty and artistry. Kaela embraced her ideas, incorporating the candelabras into lush floral arrangements and creating everything from the boutonnieres to centerpieces with care. “She just listened,” Samantha said, noting that the results were perfect.

Stay True to Yourself

Throughout her planning, Samantha leaned on Brides of Long Island as both a resource and a community. She looked for reviews to prepare herself for vendor meetings, and she asked questions that brought in dozens of helpful responses—from makeup recommendations for her bridal shower to ideas for her bachelorette theme. “Once you’re in it, you realize you don’t know how you survived without it,” she said, noting how invaluable the group became throughout the entire process.

Now, as a bride looking back, Samantha encourages others to stay true to themselves. “Take advice, but at the end of the day, do what you want for your wedding,” she shared. “Trends and social media can be overwhelming, but the most important part is marrying your person in a way that feels authentic.” For Samantha, that meant a romantic vintage celebration filled with candlelight and subtle personal touches. Her advice: do your research, trust your instincts and make decisions that reflect your vision—you’ll never regret creating a day that’s uniquely yours.

Vendors:
Venue: The Mansion at Oyster Bay, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photo/Video: Solaris Photo & Film, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
DJ: High Voltage, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Florist: Towers Flowers Nesconset
Hair: Emilie Does My Hair
Makeup: Makeup by Marisa
Dress: Ivory & Main, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: Batter Up
Tuxedos: The Black Tux
Transportation: All Star Limo, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Piano Player: Inspire with Strings
Cigar Bar: Village Cigar Headquarters in Patchogue, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Day of coordinators: Meaghan & Katie of Three Sisters II Events
Dog sitter: Tracy of Love & Leashes, a BOLI Preferred Vendor

Looking to keep the party going after your wedding? These ideas will entertain your guests. 

We spend so much time planning our wedding, so of course you might want to continue partying after the reception is officially over. 

A lot of venues offer after party options. You could always head back to your hotel bar to unwind, or you could plan one of these eight unique ideas for your after party.

Bowling

Trade those wedding shoes for some bowling shoes at your local alley. Keep your wedding dress and tuxedo on for some fun photos! Split up into teams to enjoy a little friendly competition. And don’t forget to order some bar food and pitchers of beer.

Karaoke

You’ve spent all night dancing and listening to your DJ. Why not take the mic yourself for your after party? Check out bars to see if they offer karaoke, or get an inexpensive karaoke machine and bring it to wherever you head after.

Pool Party

This can work anywhere. Some hotels allow parties in their pool area, or you could enjoy a friend’s pool. You may even have your own! Either way, this is a great way to relax and chill after a long day.

Laser Tag

Up for some friendly competition to unwind after your wedding? Head to a laser tag joint. This is another fun idea that could make for some great photos in your wedding attire!

Escape Room

Reserve a few rooms for a fun challenge after your wedding.

Movie Night

Some theaters allow you to rent the full theater for all of your guests. Or if you want to keep it low-key, see if you could host it at your venue, hotel or even at your house. Don’t forget the popcorn!

Bonfire

Depending on where your venue is, you could head to a beach or park that allows bonfires. Or see if your hotel or venue has a firepit you could use. 

Scavenger Hunt

Hand out the item list to your guests when they leave, and pick a location to meet up at after. The guest who has the most items on the list gets a free drink on the bride and groom!

The sky is the limit when it comes to after party ideas on your wedding day. You can keep it chill or party all night until closing time. Whatever you decide, remember to enjoy yourself. Take a moment to absorb the love from your friends and family who kept the celebration going!

This article brought to you by Port Jefferson Country Club, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!

Nervous about keeping the conversation going? Here are 5 fun topics to discuss with your in-laws at the next holiday gathering!

The holidays are here, and with that comes some much-anticipated family time. More likely than not, you’re splitting a few festive get-togethers between your family and your fiancé’s family. And while there’s no shortage of things you feel comfortable discussing with your own folks, that may not be the case with your future in-laws.

Maybe you’re on the shy side or maybe you just don’t know them that well, but having to keep the convo going at your in-laws may feel somewhat daunting. What happens when there’s that awkward moment of silence and you don’t know how to fill it? You know to avoid politics and religion, but what are some easy things you can talk about? Fear not, brides of Long Island — here are 5 fun, stress-free topics to discuss with your in-laws.

1. Wedding planning

This one is a no-brainer! Your in-laws may be relatively involved with the wedding planning process, but you can keep them up-to-date on details they might not know — your bridal shower and bachelorette, the flowers you’re choosing for the bouquets, finally deciding on a playlist. There are lots of things to discuss when it comes to your big day.

2. Memories from your fiancé’s childhood

Your fiancé can’t get enough of the Yankees, so ask mom and dad when this obsession started! They’re sure to share some funny and heartfelt moments from your fiancé’s childhood. Just be sure to steer clear of any topics that might be sensitive to your fiancé.

3. Their friend groups and social circles

You love a little hot gossip, no matter the age range. Ask about your future MIL’s crafting group or your future FIL’s golf buddies. They may have some exciting things to share (or some funny things to vent!) That can also give you some topics to discuss for the future — “hey, how’s your knitting friend doing?”

4. Holiday traditions from their past

Every family does something slightly different for the holidays. This is a perfect time to learn about their favorite traditions, and share some of your own with them. 

5. Pop culture and sports

When all else fails, pop culture and sports teams are super easy topics. Has your future MIL seen the new Wicked movie? Can your future FIL believe the last Giants game? You may want to do a little research to see what they’re into, but showing investment in their interests can also nab you some in-law brownie points. 

This article sponsored by Absolute Entertainment, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Vendor!

 

Celebrate with self-care! These ideas will help you bring wellness to your wedding weekend

Some brides of Long Island can’t wait to hit the dance floor with their signature cocktail in hand. But others may be more inclined to mindfulness and meditation than Whiskey Sours and “September.”

Neither desire is wrong! Your wedding is a reflection of you, your love story, and both of your personalities. If the traditional wedding activities aren’t really your style, here are a few ideas that can bring “wellness” into your wedding weekend.

Welcome your guests with a physical activity

There’s nothing that says your welcome party has to be a “party.” Welcome guests to your wedding weekend by inviting them to a group activity, like a yoga class, OrangeTheory workout, or 5K walk/run. 

Of course, you’ll need to consider any limitations your guests may have. If your 80 year old grandmother is in a wheelchair, she may not be able to participate in anything too demanding. Be sure to have some alternatives lined up for those who can’t participate. 

Enjoy a spa day with family and friends before “I do”

Sure, getting manicures and massages are great ideas for the bachelorette. But the nerves can be pretty intense in those hours before the big day! There’s no better time to focus on relaxation and reflection. Sharing that time with those closest to you can enhance your bond and relieve some stress for everyone.

A different kind of “open bar.”

Who says your libations have to be alcoholic? Consider offering your guests herbal teas, fruit-infused waters, or beverages with adaptogens. You don’t have to stop at the reception, either — consider tea bags for your favors or special drinks for your after party.

Get a drip

There are many concierge services that offer personalized IV drips. These formulas can help boost your immunity, hydration, and even mental focus. A quick drip before “I do” may be just what the doctor ordered!

A sound bath or meditation before the ceremony

Sound baths can provide a grounding, meditative experience for those involved. What better way to bring everyone to the present moment? Even if sound baths aren’t your thing, asking your officiant to lead in a brief meditation before the beginning of your ceremony can bring a calm, centered energy to the day.

Before you run off and say “I do,” here are some helpful tips to plan your elopement.

Whether you want to skip planning a wedding or you’ve just always wanted to keep things low-key, an elopement is the perfect way to celebrate your love with less stress and more focus on you and your future spouse. But before you run off to say “I do,” you’ll want to thoughtfully prepare for logistics, legalities and how to make the day feel special and true to you. Before you start to worry, we’re here with some tips on how to plan the perfect elopement.

Set a Budget

Just as if you were planning a full wedding ceremony and reception, you should still set a budget for your perfect elopement. If you’re traveling, consider how much you’re comfortable spending on travel expenses and factor that into your wedding day itself.

Pick a Meaningful Location

The sky is the limit when picking a location. To narrow it down, choose a location that is important to you and your spouse. Perhaps you have a favorite vacation spot. Or if you want to stay closer to home, maybe pick a spot you frequent or where you went on your first date. Consider your backyard to keep it closest to home.

Check Legal Requirements and Secure Permits

Wherever you choose, it’s important to check any requirements to make sure your marriage is legal. If you’re eloping in another country or state, check the requirements on marriage licenses and what you’ll need to do on the day of your wedding.

If you’re planning to have your ceremony outdoors at a park or public space, check if you’ll need a permit and how to secure it. And make sure to factor in any fees into your budget.

Decide on Vendors and Guests

Depending on your preference, decide on if you’ll need any vendors. Perhaps you just want a photographer to document the day. Or maybe a content creator would be the perfect option for you. Other vendors to consider are officiants (if you’re having a friend or family member preside, make sure they have the proper paperwork wherever you are), flowers, hair and makeup.

As far as guests, again, this is your preference. Do you want a few close friends and family? If you’re not sure, and want to keep it very low key, consider just having you and your future spouse and an officiant – and let people know after!

Create a Timeline

No matter where you elope, it’s important to make a loose timeline, especially if travel is involved. But don’t stress over it. Remember – this day is about you and should be stress-free. The schedule is just a way to keep the day flowing.

Add Meaningful Touches

Write your own vows. Play your favorite song. Wear your favorite outfits. Share your favorite drinks. Make the day yours!

Celebrate Later

Once you have your perfect elopement, consider celebrating later with family and friends. It can be a casual dinner at home or a small, intimate get together at your favorite restaurant. But if you want to skip the celebration, that’s OK too!

Announce Your Marriage

If you feel so moved, announce your marriage however you feel comfortable. A mailed card with a photo from the day or maybe just an email or social media post. Or skip this all together, and surprise your friends the next time you see them!

Just as with your wedding ceremony and reception, your elopement can be as big or intimate as you want it.  The key is making the day your own and celebrating this next chapter together.

 

This article is sponsored by Westbury Manor, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!

You want to look and feel your best on your big day. Here are the best places for bridal beauty prep in Nassau County, Long Island!

Your engagement is a time to pamper yourself. Trust us — get the facials, get the spa treatments, and take every opportunity to indulge in a little self-care! The more time you take to prep for your wedding day, the better you will feel when it comes time to walk the aisle. 

If you’re a western Long Island BOLI (or you’re willing to drive!), check out 5 of the best places for bridal beauty prep in Nassau County. 

Beauty Luxe Skin and Body: Plastic Surgery of New York
Great Neck

Working in healthcare for 10 years prepared owner and practitioner Stephanie to give the best experience to her brides and their bridal parties. She offers a variety of services including enhanced lip dermal fillers, Botox, laser hair removal, & laser skin tightening, and lymphatic massages.

4 Ever Young Cosmetic Injectables
Albertson, in-home appointments

Amanda Handel worked in several medical fields, but found a passion in the cosmetic world.  Working out of We Drive Health in Albertson and also traveling to brides’ homes, she truly enjoys helong people and making them feel their greatest. 

The Bronzed Bar Inc
Bellmore

The Bronzed Bar was voted #1 on Long Island for bridal spray tans, and was recently honored with the 2025 Shnepe Media Long Island Power Women award! Trusted by celebrities and clients alike, they deliver natural, stunning spray tans that last longer and fade beautifully.

OrangeTheory Fitness
Carle Place, Greenvale, Hewlett, Merrick, Massapequa Park, Seaford, Rockville Centre, Syosset, East Meadow, Oceanside

Whether you’re looking to tone, build strength, or just release some pre-wedding jitters, OrangeTheory Fitness has your back with group fitness that’s both fun and challenging. Their workouts are built on science, designed to make every minute count, and tailored to fit all fitness levels. 

Nura NYC LLC
Rockville Centre

The name “Nura” comes from an Arabic word meaning light or radiance — a reflection of founder Carolyn’s belief that true beauty begins from within and shines outward. She’s trained in everything from advanced body contouring and waxing to lymphatic massage and holistic skin therapies, blending science and self-care into each service. 

These beautiful sites in Suffolk County are sure to make your engagement photos special.

Long Island is filled with so many beautiful places to take engagement photos. And we know that with all of the wedding planning you’ve got going on, the thought of finding a location for an engagement shoot is the last thing on your mind.

Sometimes your photographer will have a suggestion for you. But if they don’t and you have no idea where to start, don’t worry! Long Island, specifically Suffolk County, is filled with hidden gems and beautiful grounds. From parks to fields, below are seven places to take engagement photos in Suffolk County.

Sites That Require a Permit

Argyle Park
Located in Babylon, this park has a lake and a beautiful waterfall, making for a great backdrop for all your photos. If you’re a Babylon Village resident, there is no fee. If you’re not a resident, there is a $100 fee. Either way, you need to fill out a permit application to take photos here. Call the Babylon Village Hall at (631) 669-1500 for more information.

Bayard Cutting Arboretum
This ‘museum of trees’ is filled with spots to make your photo session memorable. There is a $250 fee for 1.5 hours on the grounds. There is also an $8 fee to park. Photo sessions start at 11 a.m., with the last one starting at 2 p.m., and are first-come, first-serve. Click here to download the permit application.

Lake Ronkonkoma
The lake and view is perfect for fall photos. Since it is a Suffolk County park, there could be a fee and a permit might be required. You can find out more information here.

Sunflower Fields
The East End has great farms, so why not check out a sunflower field for your engagement photos? Waterdrinkers Farm allows photos for a small fee of $25/hour. Click here for more information.

Sites Do Not Require a Permit

Islip Grange Park
Located in Sayville, this park might be the perfect location for you. It has historic buildings, such as a church and a barn, a field and more. And the best part, you don’t need a permit and there is no fee to take photos here.

Lighthouse at Robert Moses
This western-most point of Fire Island offers almost five miles of beach, beautiful, hidden paths and, of course, the lighthouse. Since this is a state park, you shouldn’t need a permit, but you could pay parking fees. You can click here for more information.

Port Jefferson
From the small beaches to the docks and shops along Main Street, downtown Port Jeff or ‘Down Port,’ is a great place to take photos. You shouldn’t need a permit, but make sure you aren’t on private property along the shore. Click here for more info.

If you’re still at a loss, don’t want to pay a fee or don’t want to get a permit, get creative! Perhaps you, a family member or friend have a large yard. Maybe you live near a park or trail where you can take photos. You could even check with your wedding venue and see if you can use their grounds during off hours for your engagement photos. Or think back to a place where maybe you met your spouse – your favorite bar, bowling alley – and take pictures there.

No matter where you go, remember to just have fun and enjoy this time together!