LONG ISLAND CITY – The Renaissance Event Hall in Long Island City, NY is a convenient location for events and weddings, particularly in Queens. Located close to Astoria and Manhattan, couples can enjoy their reception without worrying about guests having to travel long distances, especially when they choose to have the ceremony in one of the many churches in Astoria.

For those interested in outdoor photos, the hall is also located near Astoria Park, Socrates Sculpture Park, Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, and Gantry Plaza State Park for dramatic views.

Renaissance Event Hall was recognized in the last three years (2015, 2016, and 2017) with Wedding Wire’s “Bride’s Choice” and The Knot’s “Best of Weddings” Awards. The National Herald spoke with Teresa Lisson, Renaissance GM and partner, for the latest information on the wedding venue.

TNH: What makes the Renaissance Event Hall a good choice for a wedding?

TL: We host only one event at a time. Our space is newly renovated and in summer 2018 we will also open our backyard for ceremonies.

TNH: How have weddings changed at the Renaissance since the time you started until now?

TS: We used to have many inquiries for all-inclusive packages where the flowers, DJ, and photographers are included. Now a days the couples like to customize their event alone to give a personal touch to the special occasion.

TNH: How many guests attend an average wedding at your venue?

TS: 125-400 guests.

TNH: How far in advance should couples begin planning their wedding at the Renaissance?

TS: It should be 9-12 months, however, we had couples book less than 3 months in advance and they had a lovely celebration. I suggest if you have never planned any event before, give yourself at least a year..

For couples interested in planning their wedding at Renaissance Event Hall, appointments are available 11:30am – 6:30pm, 7 days a week. A baby grand piano is available to rent by the hour to be played by a pianist the couple provides or the Renaissance can provide the pianist as well, for an additional fee.

As noted on the website, “Guests are greeted in the lobby bar, its simple elegance punctuated by a baby grand piano. The room flows to a gracefully curved staircase. Marble steps descend to reveal the neoclassic decor of the main reception hall and hardwood dance floor below.

The soaring ceiling flanked by two spacious, yet cozy balconies. The perfect setting for any stylish event, from a wedding ceremony, reception, to corporate functions, award dinners, fundraisers, filming, photo shoots and fashion shows.”

The Renaissance in Long Island City. Photo: Courtesy of the Renaissance

The 12,000 square foot wedding venue also features a full-service kitchen providing catering options for buffet and plated dinners, capacity for parties up to 350 seated guests and 450 cocktail guests, state-of-the-art audio visual system.

The hall’s event coordinator and team can assist with the details. More information is available at renaissanceeventhall.com.