As a wedding harpist for more than ten years, I've visited some fantastic locations. From sprawling beaches, to countryside farms. Each venue holds a unique feeling, and offers something special be it landscape or atmosphere.
I've decided to make a list of some of my favorite Rhode Island and Boston venues for those wedding couples (or those just looking for their next event space) still searching for the perfect venue.
Rosecliff Mansion, Newport RI
Built in 1898-1902, Rosecliff is one of the Gilded Age mansions of Newport, Rhode Island. Located on historic Bellevue Avenue, and along the famed Cliff Walk,
Rosecliff offers stunning ocean views and glamorous architecture and design.
The covered patio on the backside of the Mansion overlooks a green lawn decorated with fountains and breathtaking views of the sea. It's an all in one venue, with space for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
Bel Mer, Newport RI
Located on Goat Island in Newport, RI, Bel Mer is an upscale venue with modern appeal and a fantastic outside space with views of the water and the Newport Bridge.
The space's even flow also makes it a perfect design for cocktail hour following the ceremony. The inside space can be quickly converted from ceremony to reception. With equally beautiful views from inside and outside, this makes an ideal venue for plan B rainy day weddings.
The State Room, A Longwood Venue, Boston MA
Located on the top floors of the Sixty State Street skyscraper, this venue offers unmatched views of the city and harbor. With two story tall floor to ceiling windows, the views are simply breathtaking.
The modern design and space also offers a unique floor plan with two spacious rooms in one, a bottom floor with sprawling window, and a balcony overseeing it. The spaces can be used concurrently. In the past I've seen couples use the larger space with the lovely windows for their ceremony, and the balcony for their cocktail hour. The bottom floor can also be converted for the reception.
Lyman Estate, Waltham MA
A bit outside Boston, The Lyman Estate, is a historic country house located in Waltham, Massachusetts. The estate isn't the only jewel. The property itself is well kept up with gorgeous gardens and trees that make a perfect ceremony spot.
Often couples will get married on the grounds, and have the reception inside the estate.
Gooseberry Beach, Newport RI
Gooseberry Beach is located along the distinguished Ocean Drive in Newport, RI, Though a private beach club, it is open to the public. This means you may wish to read up on my prior post on beach weddings for planning advice.
There is a parking lot, and a small reception space located next to the beach. This is particularly important, as with any outdoor wedding a backup rain plan must be set in place.
I'm a beach girl, so I'm probably biased, but beach weddings may be my all time favorite location!
These are some of my favorites venues that I've had the honor of visiting and performing at for my couples weddings. I always enjoy revisiting them with each new ceremony, cocktail hour or reception.
I've included a couple other venues below that I couldn't get off my mind. Either for their beauty or sheer uniqueness (or both). I hope this post has helped in your search for a venue, or inspired you in checking out and visiting some gorgeous New England spots!
Honorable Mentions: