Hi, I’m Hank! I’m a passionate visual storyteller, and just as I love capturing intimate moments with my camera, I also love sharing the best places in New England to create those moments. So, let's dive into the top 5 wedding venues, each with its unique charm and character.
1. The Crane Estate, Ipswich, Massachusetts: This historical estate is a gem for couples seeking an elegant and classic setting for their big day. The Grand Allee is a half-mile long grassy lawn overlooking the sea – a breathtaking backdrop for wedding photos. The Great House adds an old-world charm, perfect for a vintage-themed wedding. The best time to get married here? Summer, without a doubt, when the estate's gardens are in full bloom.
2. Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Newport, Rhode Island: If you've ever dreamed of a fairytale wedding, this is the venue for you. Castle Hill offers panoramic ocean views, lush lawns, and a grand mansion. It's perfect for large weddings, giving your guests plenty of space to enjoy the stunning surroundings. A fall wedding at Castle Hill brings out the venue's rich colors and romantic atmosphere.
3. Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, Vermont: This 1,400-acre working farm overlooking Lake Champlain is for couples seeking a rustic wedding. The Coach Barn is the centerpiece, offering a unique blend of rural charm and elegance. Spring weddings here are beautiful, with the farm coming alive with new growth and cool, comfortable temperatures.
4. The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home, Lenox, Massachusetts: Literature lovers will be smitten with this venue. The mansion and gardens are impeccably maintained, offering a sophisticated and intimate setting. This is ideal for a smaller wedding, where all your guests can appreciate the venue's literary history. I recommend a fall wedding here, with the surrounding Berkshires showing off their autumn colors.
5. The Barn at Flanagan Farm, Buxton, Maine: This venue is a 19th-century barn nestled on a 60-acre farm, ideal for couples looking to have a barn wedding with modern amenities. Large weddings fit comfortably in the barn, and the farm offers numerous locations for beautiful photos. A summer wedding here is ideal, allowing you to take full advantage of the outdoor spaces.
Each of these venues has its unique character, just like each couple. And just as I love to spend time getting to know each couple's story, I encourage you to visit these venues and see which one tells your story the best.