Unique Loft in Long Island City

Dating from 1909, the Metropolitan Building was first an electrical parts factory. Seventy years later it was long vacant and in a sad state of disrepair. In 1980, Eleanor Ambos, who had a successful antique furniture rental business in Manhattan, undertook a daunting restoration project, and today the Metropolitan Building is one cool venue: for parties, weddings, and film and photography shoots. Up to 300 people can be invited for an elegant dinner, and plenty more for a party. There are antique couches, cozy armchairs and some pin lighting. Think shabby, shabby chic. Special features of the Metropolitan Building are its huge windows with wrap-around views, exposed brick walls, wood floors, and prop rental services.

Last weekend I spent time coordinating an event there and fell in love with Queens. Oh, did I mention it's in Long Island City? Anyway, this might not be the place for you if you're not an artist, director, writer, bohemian or if you're not terribly outre.

The warehouse elevator doors open to the space. Prop furniture from the floor below.
There's even a grand piano.

I giant copper tub filled with Peroni, I've seen it filled with water and rose petals for a slightly different look.

Wedding Librarians Roey and Mariane setting placecards on an antique sideboard.

The simplest of dining banquet tables looked so right.

The stickly quince was quite sculptural, don't you think?

Lots of furniture got moved, but not this lady.

Bird cages from the prop house became impromptu decor.

Great Brunch Spots: From the Archives

I ran across this article I wrote for New York Magazine, Weddings last year and reminded myself of these great brunch spots. If these don't work, try the hotel where most of your guests are staying. It's convenient, most likely reasonable and should be easier than your other options.

1 New Leaf Café: “After your formal wedding, this restaurant in Fort Tryon Park (at the Cloisters) is the perfect casual retreat. With the park’s view of the Hudson, it’s a great way to get a little of the outdoors into your cosmopolitan wedding. It’s a beautiful stone building that’s fully restored and was designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted, who also designed Central Park.”

2 Pastis: “There’s no better place to nurse a hangover than this French bistro in the meatpacking district. Hipsters and parents alike will love the food, patina, and the Bloody Marys.”

3 Rainbow Room: “This gem of a space also has a gem of a view. Old-school and old-world, the Rainbow Room is surprisingly cozy and offers Cipriani service, food, and great Bellinis.”

4 Top of the Rock: “An amazing outdoor brunch or a view from on top of the world: you can wow your guests two ways at this newly opened venue. They’re definitely going to be the talk of the town soon.”

5 Madison Room at the Palace: “With food from either Gilt or the Palace banquet kitchen, this gorgeous landmarked room overlooks both Madison Avenue and the Palace courtyard. It’s like a secret, amazing jewel box that’s so perfect and pristine, and you’d never know it was there.” (Pictured in the photo above).