We’re so lucky. CMV Weddings gets to work in some of the most beautiful places in Connecticut. Officiating outdoors is a magical experience, whether it’s warm ocean waves crashing behind us, or a crisp breeze whispering through an autumn ceremony, our state offers almost 6-7 months of comfortable outdoor weather. So, in no particular order, here are our 10 Favorite Wedding Venues for Outdoor Ceremonies in Connecticut:
Hill-Stead Museum Farmington, CT
A wedding at the Hill-Stead Museum is an event of a lifetime. This turn-of-the-century, 30,000-square-foot homestead built by one of the country’s leading industrialists showcases the integration of family life with avant-garde art & design. It features impeccable gardens and sweeping views of the Litchfield Hills. The varied 152 acres include expansive lawns for tented receptions, a renowned Sunken Garden for ceremonies, and meandering pathways to explore for that perfect photo memory.
Capacity: 400 outdoors/ 100 indoors (seated)
Catering: Preferred list
Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, Old Saybrook, CT
Outdoors and by the shore? Say no more. The Saybrook Point Resort & Marina is a charming wedding venue where couples can have a picturesque piece of the Connecticut Shoreline as their wedding backdrop. Set in a beautiful marina, this venue has proven a standout choice for over 30 years.
Capacity: 250 outdoors/ 100 indoors
Catering: In house
Harbor View Landing, Mytic, CT
Just down the road from Old Saybrook, Harbor View Landing is a scenic waterfront wedding venue located on the banks of the beautiful Mystic River in historic Mystic. Couples can hold a variety of wedding events by the waterside for a picturesque celebration of their love. This venue has access to over 500 feet of premium waterfront, as well as a newly built 66-foot private dock. Harbor View Landing also offers a range of luxury accommodation cottages and homes that couples and their guests can enjoy as part of their wedding weekend.
Capacity: 75
Catering: Open
Gwyn Careg Inn, Pomfret Center, CT
The Gwyn Careg Inn is an elegant historic wedding venue nestled upon 14 acres of manicured lawn and gardens. This colonial revival mansion is ideal for outdoor ceremonies and tented receptions where you can enjoy an exclusive experience immersed in natural splendor with ample space to make your own.
Capacity: 250 outdoors/ 100 indoors
Catering: In house
South Farms, Morris, CT
Conveniently located between NYC and Boston in the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut, The White Barn at South Farms is a state-of-the-art events venue creatively constructed within the iconic Sam Paletsky Barn. South Farms boasts a working farm, stunning pastoral views, and all the amenities you would expect with a premier venue.
Capacity: 150
Catering: Preferred list with in-house kitchen
Lord Thompson Manor, Thompson, CT
If you want to host a wedding weekend, this is THE PLACE. Polished and stately, Lord Thompson Manor specializes in weddings that begin with your rehearsal dinner and end with a Sunday brunch. The flow of a wedding here is structured to create a Party, rather than a conventional wedding reception.
Capacity: 220
Catering: In house
Wadsworth Mansion at the Long Hill Estate
This Beaux Arts-style country estate is one of the dreamiest outdoor ceremony venues in CT. Not only are there a variety of locations for outdoor ceremonies, but you can host your cocktail hour and dancing outside, too! The estate provides multiple locations for outdoor ceremonies, including the patio, lawn, and tennis pavilion. The tennis pavilion is an intimate and secluded area enclosed by a rose trellis. This Middletown venue wins raves from couples on the scenery and the staff’s service and flexibility.
Capacity: 200
Catering: Preferred list
Madison Beach Hotel, Madison, CT
Connecticut may not be known for beach weddings, but there are several outdoor wedding venues in CT that are beachfront. Yes, it’s entirely possible to host a toes-in-the-sand beach ceremony at the Madison Beach Hotel. Whether you plan on sauntering barefoot across our private beach, or exchanging vows on our manicured lawn, the venue has a laid-back, elegant feel.
Capacity: 160
Catering: In house
Amarante’s Sea Cliff, New Haven, CT
A gazebo with views of the Long Island Sound? Sounds like a dream wedding venue to us! At this New Haven all-inclusive venue you’ll find gorgeous water views and two reception spaces to choose from: the Grand Ballroom with its open deck and large dance floor, or the smaller Inn, which offers a wall of windows and gorgeous water views.
Capacity: 280
Catering: In house
Wickham Park, Manchester, CT
If being completely surrounded by nature is your wedding wish, Wickham Park is an excellent choice. Wickham Park is a non-profit, private foundation whose property extends into both Manchester and East Hartford. The park contains 280 acres of gardens, open fields, woodlands, ponds, picnic areas as well as six options for outdoor ceremonies. The rustic Cabin at Hilltop Garden with its views of the Hartford Skyline and the Emerald Room of the Irish Garden are the more intimate spaces, offering cathedral ceilings and wrought iron décor.
Capacity: 150
Catering: Preferred list