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Your bridesmaids are your absolute besties, and they’ve come through for you time and time again — not to mention, throwing the most rockin’ bridal shower ever. So it’s only fair that you return the favor and show them how special they are to you with a luncheon or tea before your big day. If you’re running low on ideas after fielding venues for the rehearsal dinner, reception, and wedding itself, don’t despair. We’ve made a list of 10 beyond-special places to celebrate your girls.
Pietro Nolita
This Insta-famous restaurant has the perfect girly-yet-sophisticated vibe for a get-together with your best gals. Bonus: Your crew will look incredible in the all-pink space.
Novela
Does your bridal party have a bookish bent? This is the place for you. Nerd out with literary-themed cocktails and small bites to write home about. And don’t forget to take a group photo against their color-organized shelves.
The Beauty Bar
The best of all possible worlds. The Beauty Bar offers martinis and manicures in one delightful, surprisingly down-to-earth spot.
Butter & Scotch
If you want to keep the traditional cake-pulls as part of your luncheon, but aren’t willing to sacrifice the booze, either, may we suggest Butter & Scotch? The women-owned-and-operated locale is equal parts small-town sweetness and subversive badassery. (Perfect example: Their current cocktail theme is “witches.”)
N7
Bridesmaids obsessed with “French girl” everything? Look no further than this off-the-beaten-path spot in one of Nola’s coolest areas. Completely obscured behind an unassuming wooden fence sits an awesome secret: a laid-back patio space where your entire crew can nosh on French favorites with a subtle Japanese-inspired culinary twist.
Samovar
If a bridesmaid tea sounds staid, you clearly haven’t been to Samovar’s sleek Mission District tearoom. Relax and sip on incredible chais with your girls, or rent out their stunning rooftop with a 300-degree view for a more formal affair.
Smith Teamakers Tasting Room
Another not-so-prim take on tea, Smith Teamakers’ tasting room has a cool, mid-century feel that’s perfect for your ‘maids who gush over good design.
Milk & Roses
Indulging your squad’s girly side is easy in this Brooklyn restaurant’s idyllic rose garden patio space. We suggest turning your bridesmaid tea into a bridesmaid brunch: The prix fixe menu includes an hour of unlimited mimosas.
The Lodge at Gallow Green
While the McKittrick Hotel may be most famous for housing cult-favorite theatre experience Sleep No More, there’s another can’t-miss experience here too. The hotel’s rooftop is transformed into a fir-filled forest retreat that makes this space feel miles away from the bustling city below, and brunch at the lodge inside is a truly memorable time.
