Grand Central Terminal Wedding: A Dream Come True
Meredith Giuliani always envisioned saying “I do” in a grand setting. So, hosting her wedding at Grand Central Terminal felt like a beautiful dream realized.
“I thought, ‘How amazing would it be to have such a stunning landmark in New York as the backdrop for my wedding?'” Giuliani, 32, now living on the Upper West Side after moving from New Jersey, shared, playfully suggesting that the historic transportation hub was the event’s architectural “best man.”
On October 11, Meredith tied the knot with David Garrett, 32, a corporate real estate expert, in the iconic Vanderbilt Hall. The ceremony, officiated by NFL Hall of Famer Harry Carson, was nothing short of spectacular, featuring a 12-foot floral display, a gleaming mirrored floor, and a harpist-violinist duet, along with a classic faux ticket booth.
Guests were given personalized train tickets at the booth, marking their seat assignments for the reception at Cipriani, a sought-after venue.
The couple stands out as the first to host a wedding at Grand Central Terminal in over a decade, and according to Giuliani, they pulled off what they dubbed “the best party ever.” She expressed her gratitude for having such wonderful friends and family present, emphasizing their desire to create a memorable experience for everyone involved.
While they opted not to disclose the wedding’s total cost, it’s known that Vanderbilt Hall rentals range from $25,000 to $40,000, depending on space and time needed. Other logistical factors, including managing commuter traffic during the event, could further increase costs.
Giuliani’s parents, both in software procurement, along with her in-laws from the healthcare sector, funded the lavish celebration. Before dinner, which included filet mignon and Chilean sea bass, the bride made a stunning entrance in a custom ball gown adorned with glitter and feathers by designer Isa Makino.
Meredith and David had their first kiss as a married couple beneath the vintage clock in Vanderbilt Hall, a beautifully restored 6,000-square-foot event space that showcases high ceilings and elegant chandeliers.
Planning such a glamorous affair requires considerable effort. David Florio, from the MTA, noted that couples interested in hosting a wedding at Grand Central should start their preparations at least 11 months in advance. Meredith began organizing her chic celebration just months after David proposed last May on Little Island along the West Side Highway.
Giuliani, who wanted a public proposal, shared that the scene was filled with bystanders taking photos. She recalled being excited about the attention and expressed her gratitude for the positive reactions from strangers, commenting on her dress and wishing them well.
As they look forward to honeymooning in the Maldives next month, Giuliani reflected on how the city holds a special place in their hearts. “This city has so much to offer,” she said, acknowledging how grateful they are to have pulled off such a unique wedding in a place they both cherish.
