Tie the Knot in Eastern CT: Our Top 5 Wedding Venues for 2024

The newest venue on our list is perfect for a wine-loving couple. Kingdom of the Hawk opened this past summer and is the sister location to Saltwater Farm Vineyard. The property is a great selection for any season, boasting a unique interior with blends of dramatic lines, large glass windows, and an open floor plan. The rooms on premises can accommodate both large groups and intimate gatherings. The farm building is articulately lined by cemented walkways and leads out to a stunning hill-top patio-which looks out onto a bountiful 50 acres of land. Whether it’s during the harvest season, the white blanket of winter, or the blooming of spring flowers, Kingdom of the Hawk Vineyard is an ideal location for those seeking breathtaking views of the region’s finest vines, forest lands, and budding wildlife. 

Photo Credit: Kingdom of the Hawk Vineyard

For those searching for something along the coast, The Pavilion is for you. Situated in the quaint coastal town of East Lyme above the beloved Rocky Neck State Park, The Pavilion offers marvelous views of the ocean. Adorned by classic stone architecture and surrounded by vibrant greenery, this picturesque venue is perfect for the spring/summer. Guests will enjoy every angle of this mesmerizing palace-like venue. Photo Credit: Institute of Connecticut History

If you want to live out your childhood dreams of getting married in a fairytale style castle-like in Disney’s Cinderella, then look no further than the Branford House. Located on a University of Connecticut campus and modeled after the famous Newport Mansions in RI, this 19th century property features spectacular views of Eastern Point Bay and the Avery Point Lighthouse in Groton. Not only is this venue great for sea-side views, but for occupancy; Branford happily welcomes indoor and outdoor parties, and can accommodate up to 200+ guests (between their grand ballroom and east and west wings), with optional private tent rentals. So, if you want to feel like royalty for a day and experience unique elegance like no other, book a tour at this refined Connecticut historical site! 

Photo Credit: University of Connecticut

If rustic-chic is more your vibe, then Wrights Mill Farm is the place to go! Nestled on 200 acres, this venue is a well-known spot in New England that features beautiful facilities and all-inclusive packages, as well as an on-site event coordinator. Something else to note is that their open-minded policy welcomes non-traditional couples. With both indoor and outdoor pavilions and a patio with built-in fire pits, this venue is perfect for cozy fall and winter weddings. 2024 marks their 20th anniversary, so celebrate together! Photo Credit: jesslancephoto

Our last recommendation happens to have been awarded last year by The Knot in the Best of Weddings’ Receptions Venues category. StoneHurst suits those seeking a traditional feel with contemporary design twists; part of this reason is for the venue’s versatility. The location is neatly situated on 90 acres of land, and is home to both The Barns and The Mansion. On the mansion side of the property, couples can embrace their ceremony in a charming swiss chalet after sharing their vows at the neighboring Little River site. Or, they can choose to wed at the luxurious barns, not too far from the scenic Enchanted Forest ceremony site. View the gallery for yourself on the venue’s website, and see if you could picture yourself walking down the aisle here! 

Photo Credit: jesslancephoto

Wherever you and your significant other choose to wed, your day is sure to be special in Eastern CT.

Congratulations to the newly engaged and happy wedding planning!