You Don't Need Westminster Abbey for a Royal Wedding

Who says you have to be a royal to wed like one? Kate Middleton and Prince William walked down the aisle Friday at Westminster Abbey. But local brides and grooms-to-be can create their very own royal wedding without traveling all the way to England. After all we are living in Queens.

The Venue: Douglaston Manor - 63-20 Commonwealth Blvd., Douglaston

So it may not be Westminster Abbey, but Douglaston Manor has a European flair. The renovated mansion is one of the most-desired wedding venues in northeast Queens. The manor sits atop a scenic hillside and overlooks a beautiful lush golf course that appears straight out of the European countryside.

The grand ballroom features carved woodwork, stone framed archways, beaming ceilings and a breathtaking floor-to-ceiling limestone fireplace. It's fit for a princess. The glass room brings a modern flair to the mansion and provides a spectacular view of the New York City skyline as well as the hills surrounding the Manor.

For more information about having your fairytale wedding, visit the manor's website.

The Dress: Charisol Bridal Boutique - 214-07 42nd Ave., Bayside.

For many brides, the most important element of the wedding day is the dress. Kate Middleton’s dress is going to be a one-of-a-kind jaw dropper, but Charisol owner Kimberly Young said she “can dress any bride and make her look and feel like a princess.”

The boutique, which was established in 1981, specializes in designer collections, including Enzoani Couture, Private Collection and Maggie Sottero. They also carry a wide selection of tuxedos for grooms as well as outfits for bridesmaids, flower girls and ring bearers.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 718-939-5269

The Ring: OKG Jewelers - 248-25 Northern Blvd., Douglaston

A ring that sparkles like the Bride’s eyes is of the utmost importance to the groom. Whether you’re planning to pass on a family heirloom - like Kate’s oval sapphire and diamond 18-carat ring - or looking to buy brand new bling, OKG Jewelers has something for both the bride and groom. With a wide variety of engagement rings, wedding bands and custom made pieces, every bride will be dazzled.  

The Accessories: Madame Sou Sou - 255-08 41st Ave., Douglaston

This online store based out of Douglaston specializes in hand made, personalized tiaras, hair accessories, jewelry, center pieces, place cards, wedding crowns and candles. Katerina and Argy, owners of Madam Sou Sou, have been making brides’ dreams come true for more than 10 years and pride themselves always “trying to make everything unique.”

Madame Sou Sou, which specializes in Greek Orthodox weddings, makes personalized crowns, which cross back and forth between the bride and groom as part of Greek tradition.

For more information or to place an order visit Madame Sou Sou's website. 

The Flowers: Cress Floral Decorators - 248-02 Northern Blvd., Douglaston

Cress Florist helps to create the perfect setting for your big day. From bouquets and boutonnières to the centerpieces and toss petals, Cress is the one-stop shop for all of your floral needs.

Call 718-423-6255 to make an appointment or visit Cress' website.

The Hair and Make-up: Christie & Co. Salon and Spa - 23-64 Bell Blvd., Bayside

Look like a princess on your wedding day with the professional bridal make-up services offered by Christie & Co. Luxuriate at the spa while being pampered from head to toe.

For more information visit Christie's website.