The Best For...

• By Katie Charles
• Published Winter 2006

Lakeside Dinner and Dancing

Central Park Boathouse
(E. 72nd St.; 212-517-2233)
The Loeb Boathouse is the city's sole spot for celebrating your vows before a shimmering lake and lush foliage. There's no overstating how much your friends will appreciate that you've scheduled your dream garden wedding within taxicab distance, and the staff's urbane professionalism will make planning the event a breeze.

An English Garden Vibe

Wave Hill
(W. 249th St; the Bronx; 718-549-3200)
Located on 28 immaculate acres, Wave Hill is a genteel country estate in Riverdale, ideal for an outdoor event. Perched on rocky bluffs above the Hudson are two putting-green-perfect lawns with views of the river and Palisades; and the vine-draped pergola and arbor provide a ready-made frame for exchanging vows.

A Flight-Free Italian Villa

Caramoor
(149 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah, Westchester; 914-232-5035)
Built in the thirties on 90 rolling acres, Caramoor is a replica of a Mediterranean villa- whole rooms were imported from European palazzos. Eight weeks in summer are blocked off, and events must end by the un-Continental hour of 10 p.m.-but these are small shortcomings for an exuberant Tuscan affair so close to home.

Fairy-Tale Weddings

Castle on the Hudson
(400 Benedict Ave., Tarrytown, N.Y.; 914-524-6366)
The majestic woods surrounding this century-old castle are fit for a princess, while the ornate indoor spaces mean you don't have to worry about a rain plan. Follow your garden ceremony with dinner and dancing in the ballroom.

Photo: Fred Marcus Photography.