Best Places to Get Married in Rhode Island: Top Venues for Your Special Day

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times in your life, and picking the perfect venue can make all the difference. Rhode Island offers a wide variety of beautiful wedding venues, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From historic mansions to stunning beachfront locations, there’s something for every couple in the Ocean State.

You’ll find many picturesque settings and top-notch services that will ensure your special day is unforgettable. Whether you’re dreaming of a small, intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Rhode Island’s diverse options cater to all tastes and sizes. Get ready to explore some of the best places to get married in this charming New England state!

1) Castle Hill Inn

Castle Hill Inn in Newport, RI, is a beautiful spot for a wedding. This historic estate sits on a peninsula, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay.

You’ll love the picturesque lighthouse and the luxurious mansion. They provide expert planning services to help you create your dream wedding. For more details, check out their wedding venue page.

2) OceanCliff Hotel & Resort

OceanCliff Hotel & Resort is a popular wedding venue in Newport, Rhode Island. This stunning property overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and covers 10 acres of rolling lawns.

The Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 230 guests. You can enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the outdoor patio before moving inside for dinner and dancing.

For more information, visit their website.

3) Blithewold Mansion

Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, Rhode Island, offers a charming and historic setting for your wedding.

Situated on a 33-acre estate, it features beautiful gardens and an impressive arboretum.

You can enjoy stunning waterfront views of Narragansett Bay while celebrating your special day.

For more details, visit the Blithewold Mansion.

4) Belle Mer

Belle Mer, located in Newport, Rhode Island, is a stunning seaside wedding venue. It’s known for its elegant and contemporary style, making it a perfect spot for a memorable wedding celebration.

With sweeping views of the water and over seven acres of lush lawns, you can enjoy both outdoor and indoor ceremonies. The venue’s floor-to-ceiling glass windows offer breathtaking views, whether you choose to celebrate by the fire pits or inside the Water Salon.

Belle Mer can host anything from intimate 30-person gatherings to extravagant receptions for up to 500 guests. Find out more about planning your wedding at Belle Mer by visiting Belle Mer at The Knot.

5) Aldrich Mansion

Aldrich Mansion is a beautiful wedding venue located in Warwick, Rhode Island. It sits on a stunning 70-acre estate with views of Narragansett Bay.

You will love the elegant, French chateau-inspired architecture. The mansion boasts grand staircases, checkerboard tile floors, and fresco ceilings.

Imagine having your special day in such a charming setting. For more details, visit Aldrich Mansion on WeddingWire.

6) Regatta Place

Regatta Place is a waterfront wedding venue in Newport, Rhode Island, located on Goat Island Marina. It offers stunning views of Newport Harbor and a luxurious setting.

You can enjoy an elegant cream and white striped tent with chandeliers and drapes. The venue comfortably accommodates up to 200 guests.

It’s perfect for a nautical-themed wedding with its proximity to classic and luxury yachts.

7) Sakonnet Vineyards

Sakonnet Vineyards in Little Compton, Rhode Island, is a dream location for weddings. Spanning 115 acres, the vineyard offers stunning waterviews and beautiful sunsets. It’s only 30 minutes from Newport, making it both breathtaking and convenient.

Couples love the blend of elegance and rustic charm. Imagine your wedding amidst manicured grounds, perfect for those wedding photos. Sakonnet Vineyards creates an unforgettable experience for your special day.

For more details, visit their website.

8) Kinney Bungalow

Nestled on Sunset Farm, the Kinney Bungalow offers a unique wedding venue in Narragansett, RI. The historic bungalow features 20-foot-high ceilings and stunning architecture.

Imagine saying your vows on a 140-acre working farm. The setting combines rustic charm with simple elegance, making it perfect for a memorable day.

The venue can host up to 150 guests, providing an intimate yet spacious atmosphere. It’s a great choice if you want a beautiful, historic spot that feels both grand and cozy.

9) The Chanler at Cliff Walk

The Chanler at Cliff Walk offers a stunning backdrop for your wedding. Located in Newport, Rhode Island, it combines elegance with breathtaking ocean views.

The venue can host up to 80 guests inside the mansion. For larger events, you can choose a tented reception on the oceanfront lawn, accommodating up to 200 guests (source).

Your guests will enjoy the beauty of the Atlantic as they celebrate with you. The outdoor terrace and expansive grounds add to the charm of this luxurious wedding venue (source).

10) The Dorrance

The Dorrance, located in Providence, RI, offers a blend of history and elegance. This venue features golden beveled ceilings and stunning stained-glass windows.

It has a rental fee of $3,000 for a reception with a food and beverage minimum of $95 per person. If you need extra hours, it’s $1,000 per hour.

The Dorrance allows you to have your ceremony on-site for an additional $1,000. With its unique features and rich history, it’s a charming choice for your special day. For more details, visit The Dorrance.

Weather Considerations for a Rhode Island Wedding

Rhode Island’s weather can vary greatly, so it’s important to plan your wedding with the seasons in mind. Understanding the best times of year for favorable weather and having backup plans ready will help you create a memorable day.

Best Seasons to Get Married

Spring and autumn are excellent choices for a Rhode Island wedding. In spring (April to June), you can expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F.

Autumn (September to November) offers stunning fall foliage and temperatures from 60°F to 75°F. These seasons provide pleasant weather without the extremes of winter or the humidity of summer.

Summer weddings from June to August are also popular due to the warm weather, but temperatures can reach the mid-80s. Coastal venues can offer a refreshing breeze to counter the heat. If you choose a summer date, consider timing your ceremony for late afternoon or early evening to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Planning for Weather Contingencies

No matter the season, it’s smart to have a weather contingency plan. For outdoor ceremonies, renting a tent can shield your celebration from unexpected rain or strong sun. Many venues offer indoor options that can be used as a backup.

A weather-appropriate wardrobe is essential. Light layers are perfect for spring and fall, while summer weddings might require fans or cooling stations. If you’re planning a winter wedding, ensure there’s adequate heating at the venue.

Check the weather forecast regularly as your big day approaches. Communicate any changes to your guests ahead of time. Venues near the coast may experience fog or wind, so preparing for these elements will keep your event running smoothly.

Legal Requirements for Marriage in Rhode Island

Getting married in Rhode Island involves specific steps you must follow to make your marriage legal. This includes obtaining a marriage license and understanding residency requirements.

Obtaining a Marriage License

To get a marriage license in Rhode Island, both applicants must visit the city or town clerk’s office. You need to provide proof of birth facts and identification, such as a certified birth certificate, passport, or alien card.

There is a $24.00 fee to apply for the marriage license, and it must be used within three months of issuance. Please remember to check with the specific city or town hall for any additional documentation that might be required. For more information on the application process, you can check out Rhode Island Marriage License.

Residency Requirements

If both applicants live in Rhode Island, you must apply for the marriage license at the city or town hall where at least one of you resides. If neither applicant is a resident of Rhode Island, you should apply for the license in the city or town where the marriage will take place.

Keep in mind that Rhode Island recognizes same-sex marriages, and couples can no longer enter into civil unions in the state. Therefore, both opposite-sex and same-sex couples follow the same legal steps when applying for a marriage license. More details can be found at Marriage Licenses in Rhode Island.

Incorporating Rhode Island Culture into Your Wedding

Rhode Island has a rich, charming culture you can bring into your wedding. This adds a special, local flavor to your big day, making it even more memorable for you and your guests.

Local Traditions and Customs

Incorporating local traditions can really make your wedding stand out. You might consider having a clambake, a popular Rhode Island tradition especially by the beach. Clambakes are perfect for outdoor summer weddings and can give your celebration a unique seaside charm.

Another tradition is including a local band specializing in coastal music to play at your reception. This will create a relaxed, fun atmosphere that fits the Ocean State’s vibe. You could also look into hosting your wedding at one of the iconic Gilded Age mansions in Newport, offering historical elegance.

For a more casual touch, think about having local sailboats involved for your grand entrance or exit. This not only honors Rhode Island’s deep nautical heritage but also provides great photo opportunities.

Cuisine and Catering Ideas

Rhode Island’s cuisine is another way of bringing local culture to your wedding. Start with classic New England clam chowder for your appetizer. This traditional dish is loved by locals and adds a comforting touch.

For the main course, you could offer a mix of seafood including lobster rolls, stuffed quahogs, and fresh oysters. Smoked bluefish pâté can also be a unique and tasty option. Offering Del’s Lemonade as a refreshing drink adds a fun and local touch that your guests will appreciate.

Desserts can feature goodies like coffee milk or local pastries from favorite bakeries. Setting up a mini station serving local ice creams or frozen lemonade can be a hit, especially on warmer days.

These ideas are sure to make your wedding feel authentically Rhode Island, giving your guests a true taste of the region.