17 Breathtaking Ideas for a Rooftop Wedding

There’s something so dreamy about saying “I do” on a rooftop. Whether it’s the dazzling New York City skyline or the vibrant beaches of Miami, framing your vows with a jaw-dropping backdrop will make your ceremony that much more memorable. When you make your marriage official several stories above the ground, you and your partner will feel like you’re on top of the world.

With open floor plans, rooftop nuptials offer ample space and a blank canvas to design your dream day. From a modern aesthetic with a black-and-white color scheme to a colorful celebration with elaborate floral arrangements, there are so many ways to elevate the space. 

Since you’ll want the surrounding scenery to be the focal point, it’s important to think strategically about your decorations. “If the rooftop is open air, then it’s best to let the view do the work and not try to compete with high arrangements or any kind of draping that would create a feeling of obstruction,” planner Annie Lee notes. “Try to enhance the vastness of the skyline by keeping the design airy.”

Another factor to consider before planning your vow swap is the weather. Because rooftop venues provide an outdoor area, you’ll want to host your event in the warmer seasons. Of course, you can’t always predict inclement weather, so planner Lauren Dickens suggests having a backup plan. “Either be ready to move your wedding indoors or have alternatives, such as a tent,” she says. 

Besides the rain, Lee recommends planning for windy conditions as well. “Make sure your designs are windproof and that nothing can become a projectile because serious injuries and damages can occur if the wrong item is whisked off the side of the building,” she explains. By preparing for any kind of scenario, you’ll set yourself up for success. 

From fun fashion moments to breathtaking dinner setups, here are 17 ways to host a rooftop wedding your guests will never forget.