Here Comes the Bridal Showcase

The Douglaston Manor became a one-stop shop for wedding bliss this week as the banquet hall hosted a bridal showcase, drawing local florists as well as tuxedo and dressmakers from around the community.

On Thursday, dozens of wedding professionals displayed their exclusive products and services to newly engaged couples at the Manor, located at 63-20 Commonwealth Blvd. in Douglaston.

In case you missed it, here’s our wrap-up of the very latest in wedding ideas, fashions, products and services that were all available at the showcase. Claudia Hubbard, owner and general manager of the Manor said showcases at the Douglaston Manor take place every February and September.

Hubbard said the building, which is a 130-year-old Mediterranean styled landmark, is a perfect spot for weddings.

“The Douglaston Manor underwent a $4 million dollar renovation five years ago, which restored the building to the original splendor,” she said. “The largest room holds 225 guests.  Rooms can also be divided to hold intimate parties for as little as 20 guests. Upstairs are private dressing rooms that lead into a beautiful wedding chapel.”

She said the Manor’s outdoor patio, which overlooks the Douglaston Golf Course, is a great locale for dramatic photos. The Manor’s busiest season is April through December.

She said the banquet hall’s chef, Franco Raicovich, specializes in Northern Italian cuisine.

“But he will customize any menu at the guest’s request as well as provide food tastings prior to their event,” she said.

Lining the circular driveway just outside of the Douglaston Manor was a collection of Classic, SUV, Exotic, Stretch & Super-Stretch Limousines coupled with a Classic Rolls Royce and even a Trolley Car. Limousine offerings were from Royalty Limousine and Cruise Control

Once inside, passing the linen draped staircase, visitors found showroom after showroom of displays by wedding professionals.  Throughout the entire event, there was a model from  Tuxedos and Gowns by Ronnie displaying the latest in bridal fashions. 

Judy Sands, event planner for Hollywood Photo & Video, DJs and Event Furniture, said her business has been in the community for 28 years.

“It’s great to offer a number of services all under one roof, and that’s exactly what we do. It makes the planning process run smoother,” she said.

In the Mix DJ Services displayed its photo booths as well as chic lounge furniture, while Ariana Studios & the Wedding Plaza showed off products, including photography, gowns and limousines. The company will even plan your honeymoon.

Douglaston’s Cress Florist provided bouquets and centerpieces as well as elegant linens.  

Owner Lori Cress said the florist’s services from Manhattan to Montauk “and beyond.”

Florist Hills, Inc gave 10 percent off for services to attendees who booked an appointment that evening to discuss their wedding flowers.

For table and chair décor, Linen Creations Inc. provided linen, chair covers, and napkin rentals, including textures such as satins, organza and lame.

A huge display of photography, practically filling an entire room was Photos by Gaetano, while Fox’s Gift Shop provided champagne flutes and decorations. 

 Travel experts from were on hand providing information for escapes to the most exotic destinations in the world.

For the Bride, Groom, Bridesmaids and Mother of the Bride, products and samples of beauty products were exhibited by Cheveux Day Spa, Metamporphasis Makeup and Arbonne Beauty Essentials.

The Douglaston Manor provided a smorgasbord of buffet items to sample, from antipasto with food art carvings to main courses and a made-to-order pasta station with an ice sculpture in the center of it all.

And last but not least, the wedding cake. Cascon Bakery, which has been in business since 1975, provided three gorgeous cakes with fillings that included cannoli, chocolate mousse and fresh strawberry. They personalize each cake to the customer’s specifications.

For more information on the venue and to make appointments with any vendor listed above, please contact:

The Douglaston Manor
63-20 Commonwealth Boulevard
718-224-8787