Profile

You can be your own dream-wedding planner at this unique event salon, which is tucked neatly into an unassuming Upper East Side brownstone. Founder Claudia Hanlin created the Wedding Library in 2000, after running into roadblocks while planning her own nuptials. To streamline the process for other discerning Manhattan brides, Hanlin showcases the work of dozens of pre-screened vendors in one venue, allowing visitors to browse through the portfolios of caterers, photographers, bands, florists, and videographers”all in one shot and free of charge. Dresses hang on the walls so brides and their families can see exactly what's worth considering. Choosy brides can take it up a notch with the Library's full-service event planning option, which delivers dressers and experienced associates to help you through the trauma or the bliss. — Carolyn Murnick

Key Departments

Bridesmaids

Hanlin and Zabinski’s emporium has everything a bride’s backup team could need: Bright, preppy-chic dresses from Coren Moore ($250 to $350) and formal evening wear from Amsale Bridesmaids (from $270); purses, shoes, jewelry, and rhinestone hair sticks ($30 to $100); linen garment bags; and even a bridal emergency kit.

Bridal Shoes

Hanlin's comprehensive bridal salon doesn't skimp on shoes, offering more than 50 different visions in white to keep you light on your feet. Among the offerings are a sexy slingback adorned with a single hand-beaded flower, a high-heeled pump modeled after Jackie O.'s wedding shoe, and a two-tone satin sandal with straps.

Wedding Invitations

This exclusive one-stop bridal shop is a great source for fancy invitations. It has everything from rich, modern engraved invitations from Claudia Calhoun to whimsical letterpress from designers like Elum.

Veils

The wedding library's vast collection of bridal gear comes bedecked with all manner of feathers, flowers, and rhinestones. Find headpieces from romantic Susan Hoxie and glam Regina B., as well as an extensive supply of best-selling Bride's Head Revisited veils. The staff works individually with all clients and customizes all veils.