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June 2009
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June 30th, 2009

Vegas Style Wedding Chapel Set to Open on Norfolk Street

A few weeks ago we told you about the latest imaginative project from the guys at "Grand Opening" on Norfolk Street. In the past, they've turned their storefront (at 139 Norfolk) into a drive-in movie theater complete with a sky blue 1965 convertible, a ping pong parlor and an art gallery. Starting July 10th, it will be a Vegas style wedding chapel. We stopped by the soon-to-be chapel recently to get the scoop from the "wedding planners." 

-1 In a past life, "Grand Opening" was a drive-in movie theater.

PONG-4A ping pong parlor was the first "business" to open at "Grand Opening"

Ben Smyth and his brother moved their business to the Lower East Side a couple of years ago, opening the storefront as an offshoot of their design firm. Ben says they wanted to do something to engage the community, tapping into the diversity and artistic spirit the neighborhood is known for. The concept behind "Grand Opening" is to unveil a new "business" every few months. So far there have been about 10 projects, some more popular than others.

20090608_grandopeningguy_146x97 The wedding chapel concept seems destined to be a big hit. One of their employees, Kevin Fey (pictured), has gone through an exhaustive (about one hour) correspondence course to become a minister in the Universal Life Church. You get to choose the cheesy backdrop: beach, forest, whatever you want. Ben says there's already been quite a lot of interest. Some people are having real weddings in the 250 square foot space – others are renewing their vows or having a commitment ceremony. You can even rent a bride or groom. There is room for around 20 guests. They'll stream a live feed of your big day on the internet.

"Grand Opening" is raising money for the project on Kickstarter. They only have one more day to reach their fundraising goal of $3,000. There's still about 500 bucks to go. You can see more information about the Wedding Chapel and watch a video here.

June 30th, 2009

Tuesday News Links

A State Supreme Court judge rules Senate Democrats and Republicans must meet together in the same room– just like actual adults.

The Civic Center Residents Coalition will endorse Bill Thompson for mayor today.

Summer in the city: an interesting night at Tompkins Square Park.

Another sign of gentrification on the Bowery: it looks like the Salvation Army's East Village Residence is about to become an upscale sushi restaurant/night club.

Tonight's Tenement Talks: behind the scenes. How did they put together their first exhibits… the story behind the restoration of 97 Orchard.  630pm at the Tenement Museum.