MAKE YOUR DREAM A REALITY

by Anne Pyburn Craig

date posted: March 07, 2019

What does your dream look like? Whether you want to be as impeccable as royals or go barefoot to the altar, the Hudson Valley has a venue to make your dreams come true. Consider the options:

Shot at Mohonk Mountain House.
Photo by Sarma & Co. Photography.

Grand:
Estate, hotel, or gourmet restaurant

Shot at Taghkanic State Park.
Photo by White Poppy Weddings

Natural:
Park, gazebo, backyard

Shot at Glynwood.
Photo by Susan Baker Photography.

Rustic:
Barn, winery, farmstead B&B, farm

Shot at Senate Garage.
Photo by Hudson River Photographer.

Modern:
Loft space, garage, museum

think about:

Season: What will your venue look like in the month you’ve chosen?

Furnishings: What’s included? What will you need to provide? Does the venue have lists of suggested vendors?

Acoustics: Will your music of choice work well here? When the dance floor’s on fire, will there still be spots for quiet conversation?

Flexibility: If there are special details that mean a lot to you, will the venue accommodate those? Are you allowed to alter the decor, for example?

Is there a place where kids can play, visible but out of the flow of adult traffic?

Once you’ve settled on your setting, you can narrow it down to two or three favorite choices. Choosing the right venue will help everything else fall into place. You’ll be better able to envision how the day will look and feel.

things to remember:

• Start early! Great venues are often booked up a year in advance.

• Read reviews and scan social media for photos of past events at venues you like.

• The clearer you are about your needs, the easier it will be to find the venue that can fulfill them.

arrowood farm brewery

Accord, 845-253-0389, arrowoodfarms.com

Arrowood is an authentic farmhouse brewery located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, nestled between the Shawangunk and Catskill Mountains. It’s here where we cultivate many of our own organic hops, grains, and native fruits. We produce classic, wild, and mixed-culture ales to express a sense of our time and place. Agriculture and nature inspire our approach to NYS

beaverkill valley inn

Lew Beach, 845-439-4844, beaverkillvalleyinn.com

Historic Catskill lodge, offering a weekend destination in a picturesque valley, yet only two hours from NYC. Over 40 acres of meadows, gardens, and hiking trails. Rustic barn for ceremonies and dancing, heated indoor pool, fitness center, tennis court, self-serve ice cream parlor, 19 rooms for guests. Custom menus crafted by the Inn’s executive chef. Call for a tour and discover the amazing BVI.

belleayre mountain

Highmount, 845-254-6129, belleayre.com

Let the natural landscape be the backdrop on your special day, or have an intimate ceremony in front of the fireplace in one of our rustic lodges. Say your vows at the Summit lodge (with a chairlift ride to the top), Overlook lodge, The Great Room, Discovery lodge, or the fountain at the beach. The scenery, no matter the location will provide a fantastic experience that everyone will remember.

best western plus

Kingston, 845-338-0400, bwpkingston.com

Catskill Mountain beauty surrounds this modern, impressive hotel and conference center. With 208 guest rooms and over 8,000 square feet of banquet space, Best Western Plus offers premiere event space plus the capacity to accommodate wedding guests traveling to the region. Their experienced team of event planners will provide a personal touch in making your wedding dreams come true. Call or email Sage at snewkirk@cooperhotels.com.

buttermilk falls inn & spa

Milton, 845-795-1310, buttermilkfallsinn.com

The vast reception patio with its broad Hudson River vista is available for up to seven hours until 10pm (in accordance with local zoning restrictions). The Barn at Buttermilk—a warm, inviting space—is versatile enough to be transformed into the epitome of country elegance or a welcoming space for large, casual gatherings. Catering services are provided through Henry’s at the Farm, the premier on-site restaurant.

claryville event center

Claryville, 845-985-0247, bluehilllodgecafe.com

Our Event Center is a stunning glass building looking out toward the Neversink River, which offers you a beautiful setting for your wedding pictures, either along the river or on our manicured grounds. Enjoy our whole complex, including the Claryville Art Center and the adjacent Russian Mule Brewery. If you want to say “I do” at a destination wedding, you will have an unforgettable experience at Blue Hill.

copake country club & the barn at copake lake

Copake Lake, 518-325-0019 (The Greens Restaurant) thegreensatcopake.com, thebarnatcopakelake.com

Must-see venues for a laid-back wedding weekend surrounded by nature. With rustic yet chic indoor décor and amazing views, both properties will instantly set the tone for a unique, memorable experience. They provide personalized service with an on-site coordinator and catering by a CIA-trained chef. The beautiful spaces with options to customize your event ensure a one-of-a-kind celebration.

crested hen farms

High Falls, 845-687-2050, crestedhenfarms.com

Crested Hen Farms provides the ideal site for a rustic and organic, yet sophisticated and elegant, wedding or other special event. Nestled on the banks of the Rondout Creek, the farm sits in the middle of 32+ acres. The circa-1830 English-Dutch dairy barn has been carefully repurposed, resulting in a 3,000-square-foot special event space with soaring ceilings supported by original hand-hewn beams. The venue is available from mid-spring through mid-autumn.

emerson resort & spa

Mount Tremper, 845-688-2828 ext. 7611, emersonresort.com

Celebrate your day surrounded by the beauty of the famed Catskill Mountains. We feature spacious accommodations, spectacular mountain and Esopus Creek views, stunning indoor and outdoor options, and a veteran event team with over 20 years of experience in helping couples create the day of their dreams. An Emerson wedding also includes on-site catering that offers freshly prepared and locally sourced menu items.

f.e.a.s.t. at round hill

Washingtonville, 845-497-7476, feastcaterers.com

Lush gardens and fountains envelop this intimate and romantic 1800s Greek revival manor. The estate setting offers an intriguing and distinctive alternative to conventional wedding venues. Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, this is an easy one-hour drive from Manhattan, Westchester, or northern New Jersey. At one wedding per day, the capacity, with dinner and dancing, holds 200 people.

historic barns of nipmoose

Buskirk, 518-944-4414, nipmoosebarns.org

The Historic Barns of Nipmoose provide an idyllic setting for rustic chic weddings. Perched on a knoll overlooking a breathtaking landscape of farm fields, the Scottish Barn, German Barn, and Corn Crib are superb examples of America’s rich agricultural heritage. All three barns are included in a single wedding event, offering couples a unique opportunity to plan their wedding, whether elegant or casual.

hudson cruises

Hudson, 518-822-1014, hudsoncruises.com

The Marika is a luxurious vessel available for private wedding cruises on the Hudson River. Her elegance, the tastefully prepared cuisine, and attention to detail create a perfect setting. Wedding cruises can be custom-designed and the Hudson Cruise team is available to work with you or your planners. The location offers quick access from Amtrak trains, major airports, and metropolitan areas. We also specialize in wedding rehearsals and more.

indian ridge farm

Highland, 845-883-3208, indianridgepreserve.com

Looking for a unique location with a country style? You’ve found the right place. Indian Ridge Farm offers beautiful indoor and outdoor options for a wedding, family reunion, birthday party, christening, weekend getaway, corporate retreat, or any other event. With acres of privacy, beach entry to their lake, paddle boats, a beach volleyball court, and a large tent area, their unique offerings are perfect for any party

lippincott manor

Wallkill, 845-895-2474, lippincottmanor.com

Nestled in scenic Ulster County, Lippincott Manor features a beautiful country-rustic setting in the Hudson Valley for outdoor weddings. This unique site, situated on 15 charming acres, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Wallkill River and Shawangunk Mountains. A full-service facility celebrating only one event per day, Lippincott Manor allows for a one-of-a-kind Hudson Valley wedding.

m&d farm

Westerlo, 518-797-3513, mndfarmwesterlo.com

This unique 58-acre property, located between the Catskills and the Capital Region, is comprised of a beautifully preserved 1940s barn, lush English- and Mediterranean-inspired gardens, and extensive ponds, fields, and woods. Complemented by a stylishly restored 1800s house, set in a laid-back, authentic atmosphere, M&D Farm is the idyllic location for an unforgettable and chic barn and garden wedding.

meadow ridge on hudson

Coxsackie, 518-303-2488, meadowridgeonhudson.com

Nestled on bank of the Hudson River, Meadow Ridge Farm combines the appeal of a 19th-century farmstead with the privacy and sophistication of a modern luxury estate. Offering gorgeous views of the Hudson River, the Catskill Mountains, and the Berkshires, this one-of-a-kind venue sets a new standard for bespoke weddings and unforgettable events.

mohonk mountain house

New Paltz, 845-256-2053, mohonk.com

Design your dream wedding at this historic castle resort, an iconic Hudson Valley destination since 1869. Your guests will experience renewal of body, mind, and spirit in a beautiful, natural setting with stunning views of Victorian gardens and Lake Mohonk. Mohonk’s award-winning chefs create gourmet cuisine for your guests, and your dedicated wedding coordinator will help you plan every last detail, from your very first tasting to your final send-off.

mount tremper arts

Phoenicia, 845-688-9893, eventsatmounttremperarts.com

Located in the Catskill Mountains, Mount Tremper Arts is an artist residency space dedicated to contemporary and experimental performance. Take over the entire campus for your incredible wedding weekend celebration. With expansive mountain views by day and starry skies at night, your rental includes lodging, a gorgeous studio, fields, gardens, and fire circles. Full wedding coordination or DIY packages available.

ole savannah southern table

Kingston, 845-331-4283, olesavannah.com

Ole Savannah is excited to be a new wedding venue in the Hudson Valley! Our Sperry sailcloth tent is perfect not just for weddings, but also rehearsal dinners, day-after brunches, bridal and baby showers, and more. We can accommodate parties from 20 to 140 people. Whether you are planning a casual buffet, cocktail party, pig roast, or elegant sit-down dinner, our waterfront location is unlike any other. Located conveniently in downtown Kingston.

phoenician

Phoenicia, 845-688-9800, thephoeniciansteakhouse.com

Located in the charming town of Phoenicia, surrounded by the Catskill Mountains, is the Phoenician, a true local gem. With a party-friendly backyard situated on the Esopus Creek, a selection of delectable food, and a friendly tavern serving craft brews and cocktails made from locally sourced ingredients, this place has something for everyone. The indoor and outdoor catering and event areas are perfect for intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, and after-parties.

q estate at soyuzivka heritage center

Kerhonkson, 845-626-5641, weddingsatsoyuzivka.com

Have the upstate wedding of your dreams at this historic Shawangunk estate with old-world charm. Nestled on over 150 acres, your guests will enjoy spectacular Catskill Mountain views. Package rates include the use of multiple on-site venues and in-house catering. This hidden gem offers guest accommodations, an outdoor pool, hiking trails, a spring-fed green pool, spa facilities, an outdoor tiki bar, and volleyball and tennis courts.

rail explorers

Phoenicia, 877-833-8588, railexplorers.net

Experience the magic of the historic railroad as you pedal our custom Railbikes along the Esopus Creek through the beautiful woods of the Catskill Mountains. Perfect venue for special events and an ideal adventure for all ages and abilities! Bring refreshments to enjoy at our creekside turnaround. 8 miles round-trip with electric pedal assistance. Tour duration: 2 hours. Season May 18 – November 2019.

rustic ridge view farm

Kerhonkson, 203-858-3634, rusticridgeview.com

Get married on a horse farm and dance the night away in a covered, open-air pavilion. Stunning 360-degree mountain views and rolling pastures make this weekend-long rental an unforgettable venue for a ceremony and reception. There is no shutdown time, so you can keep the party going as long as you like. Planning services are available. Ask about staying over!

senate garage

Kingston, 845-802-5900, senategarage.com

Senate Garage is an industrial yet elegant venue located on historic state grounds in the heart of Uptown Kingston. Our converted 1921 garage is a dramatic open space of 7000 square feet with exposed brick, steel beams, and polished concrete. Each wedding is unique and reflects your personal taste. 90 minutes from NYC, convenient to hotels and B&B’s.

shephard hills

Roxbury, 607-326-6010, shephardhillsevents.com

Shephard Hills, a picture-perfect Catskill Mountain location offering a lake, clubhouse, on-site golf course, late after-parties, brunches, and rehearsal dinners. On-site catering and bars keep Shephard Hills both idyllic and affordable!

storm king art center

New Windsor, 845-534-3115, stormking.org/host-an-event

Storm King Members* receive the exclusive opportunity to host their ceremony and/or reception in Storm King’s beautiful 500-acre outdoor museum. With expansive views of the Hudson Highlands Mountains, the landscape provides a dramatic setting for a collection of more than 100 carefully sited sculptures created by some of the most acclaimed artists of our time. *at the Friends Membership level and above.

the 1850 house inn and tavern

Rosendale, 845-658-7800, the1850house.com

Located in the town of Rosendale, this historic boutique hotel is the perfect location for an intimate wedding. Whether it’s just the two of you or 80 of your closest friends and family, their deck overlooking the Rondout Creek is a perfect choice for your celebration. With eleven guest rooms and modern amenities, The 1850 House Inn balances old and new to make your event everything you want it to be.

the beekman arms & delamater inn

Rhinebeck, 845-876-7077, beekmandelamaterinn.com

These two inns are located in the historic village of Rhinebeck. There are 80 delightful rooms, many with fireplaces in both historic and newer buildings. The Beekman Arms, America’s oldest continuously operating inn, has 23 rooms. Just one block away, the Delamater Inn has 57 rooms surrounding a garden courtyard. Both provide an elegant, romantic

the culinary institute of america

Hyde Park, 845-452-9600, Jason Lowenthal, director of catering: ciacatering@culinary.edu

Perched high above the majestic Hudson River, the CIA is the food lover’s choice. Gather family and friends around our signature communal table, where every detail is expertly delivered by CIA-trained chefs and staff. Feast your eyes on our breathtaking river views, beautiful gardens, and historic and contemporary indoor spaces. From bridal party cooking classes to rehearsal dinners, ceremonies to receptions, we have everything to make your wedding a culinary delight.

the forsyth b&b and barn

Kingston, 845-481-9148, theforsythkingston.com

The Forsyth B&B and Barn in Kingston’s historic Rondout offers a charming venue for weddings, parties, gatherings, and retreats. The newly restored, skylighted Barn seats 60. Four beautifully designed guest rooms, a separate suite, and barn loft sleep up to 18. Between the B&B and Barn is a small garden courtyard for ceremonies and dining. LGBTQ events welcomed. #1 on TripAdvisor, recommended in Vogue.

the inn at kettleboro

New Paltz, 914-213-2487, kettleboro.com

Come celebrate your special day with breathtaking views and sunsets at The Inn at Kettleboro. Located on a 12-acre fruit orchard with the Shawangunks and Mohonk as a backdrop, the Inn offers a magical space for your gathering of friends and family. Magnificent bluestone patios, elegant interiors, and comfortably appointed guest rooms help create the atmosphere to make your wedding everything you want it to be.

the rhinecliff

Rhinebeck, 845-876-0590, therhinecliff.com, rhevcat.com

This boutique riverside hotel offers stunning views, an exquisitely renovated historic location, Jacuzzi tubs, local produce, late after-parties, and so much more. We also offer full-service, off-premise catering, including rentals, to all major venues in the Catskills and Hudson Valley.

the sablewood

Schoharie, 518-461-6013, thesablewood.com

An exquisite circa-1870 barn on 80 acres in the Catskill Mountains offering full climate control for year-round comfort. We welcome you to celebrate your most precious moments in our lovingly restored barn hosting events for 20 to 250 people. Over 50 windows bringing in gorgeous ambient light, a soaring 40-foot-high peak, and a breathtaking 1920s crystal chandelier all make your event unforgettable.

whistlewood farm b&b

Rhinebeck, 845-876-6838, whistlewood.com

WhistleWood Farm Bed & Breakfast provides a relaxing, comfortable atmosphere with eclectic antique furnishings, fireplaces, comfy sofas and chairs, and delicious breakfasts. Our farm offers private views of acres of rolling land, grazing horses, and flower gardens in bloom; a perfect site for a variety of events. The hilltop areas are wonderful places to hold wedding ceremonies and receptions. We can accommodate up to 150 people in our outside areas.

whitby castle

Rye, 914-777-2053, lessingsweddings.com

Whitby Castle boasts a striking similarity to the details of the original Whitby Abbey in England, including some of the original Abbey stones. Set on 126 acres in Rye, New York, Whitby Castle is conveniently located, yet seemingly worlds away. Perfectly manicured lawns, breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound, a grandiose ballroom, plus two private reception rooms offer the perfect backdrop for an affair of any size.

windham mountain resort

Windham, 518-310-2725, windhammountain.com

Windham Mountain Resort offers spectacular Catskill Mountain views in every direction. Host your wedding with a chairlift ride to the summit, a patio ceremony, fireside cocktail hour, and an elegant reception. You will find sunlit rooms with vaulted ceilings and unique spaces for a memorable event.

wiltwyck weddings

Kingston, 845-331-0700, wiltwyckweddings.com

Experience excellence with a wedding at Wiltwyck. Our 4,000-square-foot ballroom overlooks stunning Catskill Mountain scenic views and can accommodate events from 50 to 300 guests. Enjoy a rare culinary opportunity with legendary NYC chef Kenny Callaghan, a local and natural ingredient enthusiast and a plating perfectionist. Conveniently located between New York City and Albany, nestled between the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains.

woodstock byrdcliffe guild

Woodstock, 845-679-2079, woodstockguild.org

Weddings at the Byrdcliffe Art Colony, founded in 1902, are steeped in the Catskills’ beauty, the warmth of an artists’ community, and over a century of creativity. Original arts-and-crafts buildings decorate 250 acres of forest, inspiring artists, writers, and explorers. Whether you choose the rustic elegance of the Byrdcliffe Barn, or the historic gem of White Pines, come to celebrate your love at the colony that made Woodstock...Woodstock.

woodstock farm sanctuary

High Falls, 845-247-5700, woodstocksanctuary.org

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary is home to over 380 rescued and rehabilitated farmed animals and offers the perfect pastoral setting for your vegan wedding. With an outdoor chapel with benches, two covered pavilions, and a 5,000-square-foot banquet hall, our Sanctuary is the ideal spot to host a unique and unforgettable event. Lodging with staging area for your wedding party is available on-site at The Gray Barn, our newly built boutique inn.