3 West Club: In the Heart of Manhattan

One of the amazing things about New York is that no matter how long you live here, you can suddenly see treasures that have been right in front of you all along. I work squarely in midtown across the street from the famed Rockefeller Plaza. For years, I have walked the streets of that neighborhood—running errands, grabbing lunch, hailing cabs—but I somehow managed to miss 3 West Club, which is about two blocks away. It was only when I was asked to marry the wonderful couple Gina and David that I was made aware of this fabulous venue. The 3 West Club is on 51st street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. It is a stone’s throw from many historic landmarks including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Plaza, and Radio City Music Hall, among others. As their website illuminates, the Club has the classic feel of “Old New York” complete with crystal chandeliers, high ceilings, and art deco touches.

When I arrived at the Club, I was immediately struck by the ambiance—it was a cold, rainy day when I was to officiate the wedding, but the deep wood paneling and soft lighting somehow warmed me. Under the careful direction Kristina Garritano, Social Catering Sales Manager, the Club can host intimate gatherings, such as Gina and David’s wedding, or large events. Our ceremony (about 14 guests, in all) was set up in a small, sweet room—soft lighting, candles, subtle decorations, rose petals sprinkled on the bridal runner, theatre-style seating for the guests, and a lovely mantel in the front of the space...perfect for the distinguished British groom and his American bride. The adjacent library, where we signed the marriage license, took me back to my graduate school days at Yale. Information from their website details the various areas of the Club, from the cozy library, which accommodates two dozen people, to the Grand Ballroom, comfortably managing 200 guests. With so many “over the top” wedding venues in the metropolitan area, it was refreshing to be in a thoroughly traditional and elegant setting.

“Stumbling” upon the 3 West Club was a great find! I hope to work with Kristina and her staff again soon. 

Photos provided by Kristina Garritano, 3 West Club.