Wedding Day

The Sanctuary

Ceremony

Reception

Fall

Our Wedding

A Gin Mill Love Story

From Friendship to Forever It all began with a friendship. She was his bartender, he was always there after a shift, and they shared plenty of laughs over the years. They were friends for four years, with casual conversations and occasional hangouts, never anything more. But one night, after a long shift, he offered to drive her home—and that simple ride sparked something neither of them had expected. The drive turned into a conversation that lasted for hours, and by the time they reached her place, they both realized there was something more between them. They agreed to go on a date—and just like that, a new chapter began. They fell in love quickly. The connection was undeniable, and what started as a friendship blossomed into something deeper and more meaningful than either of them could have imagined. A few years later, they found themselves living together in a cozy townhome in Astoria—a place that quickly became their home, filled with laughter, love, and plenty of shared memories. After a year of building a life together, he took her to Montauk, to their favorite spot by the ocean. As the waves crashed against the shore, he got down on one knee by the lighthouse—where they had shared so many quiet moments—and asked her to be his forever. It wasn’t the start of a fairy tale; it was the start of something even better—a love built on friendship, laughter, and the promise of a lifetime together.

Our Story

Photos

Jordan Mckee

Michael Banzer

Laurie Sourwine

John Banzer

Cayce Beam

Jimmy Hall

Wedding Party

Q + A

Room Block Available plus Bride &amp; Groom will be staying here. A short walk to the subway, Aloft offers a fun, modern hotel with a lively vibe and stylish design. The lobby is bright and casual, featuring a pool table, games, and large communal seating. There’s a ground-floor bar—note that hours may vary, so we recommend checking ahead. While the 18th-floor rooftop terrace offers amazing views, it does not have a bar or restaurant but the perfect photo op!

Aloft Long Island City-Manhattan View

Enjoy a city-view room or upgrade for a balcony with stunning skyline views. The hotel features Michael’s Café, a rooftop bar and restaurant with a gorgeous view of the Queensboro Bridge—perfect for a casual drink, bite or photo op. Located just 4 blocks from the subway, the hotel sits on quieter streets away from the main bustle but still within walking distance of convenience stores, cafés, and local bars. There’s a small indoor café, a basic lobby with grab-and-go snacks, and a laid-back vibe overall. While the surrounding area is best suited to seasoned New Yorkers, it’s a great choice for guests looking for a cute, convenient, and budget-friendly stay with a view.

Vista LIC Hotel, BW Premier Collection 

Located just blocks from the subway, this hotel offers easy access to the city with modern amenities and a convenient location. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar located in the lobby—perfect for a quick bite or casual drink. The lobby is stylish and welcoming, with grab-and-go snacks available for purchase. This hotel is a step up in comfort and atmosphere compared to nearby options, offering a reliable and relaxed stay. This hotel is located directly next to Courtyard by Marriott.

Hilton Garden Inn Long Island City New York

Located blocks from the subway, this hotel offers easy access to Manhattan with clean, modern rooms. There’s a café/bar tucked in the back, with plenty of seating and comfy couches—perfect for a low-key morning coffee or evening drink. The lobby is simple but functional, with snacks available for purchase. While a bit more basic than nearby options like the Hilton or Aloft, it’s a solid, comfortable choice in a great location. This hotel is located directly next to Hilton Garden Inn.

Courtyard Long Island City/New York Manhattan View

Please check out all the hotel locations HERE!

Check out these nearby coffee shops and late night bars!

Hotels

Explore the beautiful views of the NYC skyline! Take a leisurely walk to enjoy all the views.

Astoria Park

If the weather is nice step outside and walk the beautiful greenway along the East River. My favorite spot is the little lighthouse right down the path from our venue!

Lighthouse Park

Check out our favorite restaurant for amazing Greek food! Right next to Astoria Park.

Agnanti

Check out the most popular Greek Restaurant in Astoria! This is also located on Ditmars BLVD with lots of other shops, restaurants and bars.

Taverna Kyclades

Want a quick, no frills lunch or dinner? Check out this amazing, made to order, seafood spot! Choose your favorite seafood and let them know how you would like it prepared.

Astoria Seafood

Check out this spacious beer garden with beautiful views of the Queensboro Bridge and Manhattan Skyline!

The Greats of Craft LIC

Things to Do

Registry

Honeyfund Gift Registry 

Though your presence is the greatest gift of all, we are so grateful to have everything we need as we start this new chapter together. If you wish to honor us with a gift, we kindly invite you to contribute to our honeymoon fund instead.  Please Click the Link Below!

<a href="https://www.honeyfund.com/site/ring-banzer-11-21-2025" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.honeyfund.com/site/ring-banzer-11-21-2025</a>

Megan + James

Megan + James

Photos