Cheers to a more intimate wedding!
Whether you have already committed to an intimate wedding or are just considering moving away from the large “event of the year” type celebration, there are many positives to consider. Besides being more budget-friendly, smaller weddings can provide a more relaxed atmosphere allowing for greater opportunity to engage with guests, sharing private moments and special memories. In addition, scheduling tends to be more flexible and customized allowing the happy couple to have exactly what they dreamed of for their big day.
Of course, cost savings also translate to less food, more fun and festivities for those that are in attendance. So, if you’re sold on the intimate wedding option, consider some of our favorite small wedding venues across New England.
16 Bay View – Camden, Maine
Guests with 40 to 50 guests can make use of The View, the venue’s intimate rooftop terrace which offer breathtaking views of Camden Harbor and the Camden Hills. A banquet room option is also available for larger group up to 100 guests. This venue is a one-of-a-kind 21-room boutique hotel located in downtown Camden amongst galleries, fine restaurants and boutiques, and is the only Luxury Boutique Hotel in the area.
Inn at Mystic – Mystic, Connecticut
The saltwater breezes abound, with views of the Mystic Harbor and Fishers Island Sound. In addition to the several wedding options from tent to patio, the venue also offers up the Haley Mansion for vows to overnight stays for your small group. An Intimate Wedding Package is available for a ceremony fee and per person cost.
Woodstock Inn & Resort – Woodstock, Vermont
Image courtesy of Sabin Gratz Photography
One of Vermont’s most scenic, romantic and luxurious destinations, the Woodstock Inn is located at the heart of the town and offers indoor and outdoor event options. Its charming historic appeal compliments the inspiring view of the Green Mountains, making it perfect for intimate ceremonies, with a spectacular setting for wedding photos.
Inn at Ellis River – Jackson, New Hampshire
A great spot for your group of 20-25 guests. This setting provides a scenic backdrop in New Hampshire’s white mountains, with several options for the ceremony. Whether you want your vows to take place in front of a blazing fireplace on a winter day, or in the garden hugging the gazebo in the late days of spring, the Inn at Ellis River can accommodate. Packages starting at less than $2,000.
Harbor Light Inn – Marblehead, Massachusetts
This quaint locale is perfect for elopements or weddings with up to 30 guests. Situated on the coast in the seacoast town of Marblehead (in Massachusetts Bay’s North Shore,) the venue provides classic 18thcentury architecture, along with period finishes and handcrafted furnishings. The Inn offers packaged enhancements, for guests in their 20 guest chambers.
Ocean House Resort – Rhode Island
This large, Victorian-style waterfront hotel was first erected in 1868 on Bluff Avenue in an historic district of Westerly, Rhode Island. Perched atop Watch Hill, this venue provides stunning ocean views, and lends itself perfectly to both indoor and outdoor weddings. In keeping with the cuisine of the shore guest may decide to include an authentic clambake or lobster boil. The wedding party and guests can choose their amenities from offered rooms, suites and cottages.
Sebasco Harbor Resort – Sebasco, Maine
This larger seaside resort offers couples a choice in venue. From formal and upscale to laid back and breezy, there is a spot just right for most. Most options can accommodate 75 to 100 guests. The resort offers many activities to keep your guests busy, including waterfront restaurants, golf and tennis, boating and of course a waterfront spa.
The Goodwin – Hartford, Connecticut
According to weddingwire.com, the Goodwin is a one of a kind boutique hotel providing urban style, while retaining elements of its history, heritage and tradition. From a very small gathering to larger scale weddings, this venue has rooms that can accommodate. If you are looking for upscale or formal setting, but still want to keep the event intimate, this is a must see.
Basin Harbor – Vergennes, Vermont
Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, the Basin Harbor offers several unique rooms and gathering spaces for parties ranging from intimate to bountiful. Whether looking for an outdoor wedding with a beautiful Adirondack Mountain view or a quiet and cozy ceremony by the blazing fireplace, Basin Harbor gets it right. For those couples looking to make a whole weekend affair, they also have all sorts of events such as bonfires, hayrides, golf outings, croquet tournaments, and cocktail cruises.
Ashworth by the Sea – Hampton, New Hampshire
For your intimate wedding up to 100 guests, the elegant Rose Room should be on your list to visit. From unique and gourmet menus to customized wedding packages, the options are almost unlimited. The hotel sits on the beach and offers guests a variety of rooms overlooking the water, with and without balconies.
Publick House Historic Inn – Sturbridge, Massachusetts
Image courtesy of Debbie Segreve Photography
If you are looking for rustic colonial charm, this site will fit the bill. From the barrel-vaulted ceilings to the wall of window seats, you’ll be transported back in time. More modern and unique options are also available when you choose the Garden Gazebo or the Hillside Arbor for your vows. An onsite catering team can work with your wedding planner to create just the right menu for your guests.
Newport Vineyards – Newport, Rhode Island
Image courtesy of Blueflash Photography
Newport Vineyards offers distinctive spaces, all surrounded by a historic vineyard built by the sea. Couples may choose to say “I Do” amidst the grape vines, overlooking the ocean from the Porch room or taking in the aroma of recently uncorked wine from the wine cellar. A variety of nooks and cranny’s which make up this venue make it the prefect options for most any group. There is also an option to include custom wine labels featuring photos of the couple, and personalized notes to the guests.
Certainly, New England provides a picturesque backdrop for your wedding no matter the season. Because weather can be a factor for your big day, be sure you see the venue of interest during the time of year in which you plan to get married. While the seaside mist may be just what you had in mind when visiting in July, it may not provide the right environment for your October wedding. Ask each venue how they adjust for rain, snow or extreme wind. Be sure you are comfortable with their Plan “B” before committing to it. Now go and tour New England!