The first thing most couples begin thinking about once they've announced their engagement is where they'd like to get married. The venue will set the tone for the rest of the planning still to come. Are you drawn to a glamorous venue with impeccable service where you don't have to worry about the weather? Or would you prefer a natural setting under a beautiful tent on the grounds of a historic home? I find the overall design and aesthetic really starts to take hold in my minds eye once I've had a chance to spend some time getting to know a couple and once they've selected a venue for their celebration. Here are a few of my favorite spots!

Eustis Estate

Set on 80 acres adjacent to the Blue Hills Reservation, Eustis Estate built in 1878. Until recently this breaktaking 19th century "cottage" was a private residence. It's now available to visitors and those who wish to rent the property for private events and weddings. It can accommodate up to 70 guests for a seated dinner (or 100 for a cocktail style reception). The grounds may also be tented for up to 150 guests to accommodate larger soirées.

Four Seasons Hotel Boston

The Four Seasons gets everything right! The impeccable service, seasoned event team, delicious food and wonderful location in the Back Bay makes the Four Seasons a perfect spot for couples looking for a classically elegant celebration. The Grand Ballroom can comfortably accommodate up to 250 with a dance floor and the smaller Governor's Room can seat 120 with dancing. For larger event you may reserve the entire second floor and utilize all of the event space which also includes Aujourd'hui (and it's spectacular views of the Public Garden).

Just Right Farm

Set just 30 miles south of Boston in the small town of Plympton, Just Right Farm is surrounded by charming rural beauty. It's a perfect venue for a couple with a discerning palate who, along with their guests, will appreciate the farm to table dining experience. (One sample dish: New England Cod, preserved lemon and olive tapenade on duck egg pasta, local wheat ciabatta. Yum!) The 300 year old farmhouse set on 10 acres can accommodate small, intimate weddings in their Screen House or tented weddings up to 150 guests. Perfect for a venue that feels a bit off the beaten path yet still accessible to downtown Boston. Couples may also stay in the Farmstead Suite which boasts handcrafted furniture made by the owner in their woodworking shed.

Chesterwood

Set in the Berkshire Mountains in Western Massachusetts, Chesterwood has many unique settings for wedding ceremonies, receptions and parties from small, intimate gatherings to events of up to 500 guests. Daniel Chester French (the sculptor of the Lincoln Memorial) masterfully combined the elegance of his formal Italianate gardens with the natural rural landscape. The panoramic views, perennial gardens, sweeping fields and unique architectural details make for a gracious setting for a celebration.

Sara Kovel Events Boston Wedding Planner

Harvard Art Museum

The event spaces at Harvard Art Museum offer unique spaces set in downtown Cambridge.

Calderwood Courtyard

Calderwood Courtyard can accommodate larger celebrations and weddings of up to 200 guests seated (or 400 cocktail reception style). The courtyard is designed in the style of a Roman piazza, with stunning views through grand archways and into the galleries beyond. The courtyard is an enchanting space for celebrating under it's glass roof with a view of the stars or in the glorious light of a sun-soaked day.

Adolphus Busch Hall

With the drama of a grand medieval hall, Adolphus Busch Hall can accommodate up to 80 guests for an intimate wedding. Guests will dine amongst medieval and Renaissance sculpture and stonework, part of the Busch-Reisinger Museum’s founding collection. Adolphus Busch Hall also has an adjoining terrace and garden with lush greenery and a peaceful water fountain perfect for cocktail hour and photos.

Sara Kovel Events Harvard Art Museum Wedding

A few of my favorite wedding and event venues in Boston