You're planning a New England wedding weekend? Lucky you! You probably already have your venue secured, but do you know where you're hosting the welcome party?
New England Venues to Welcome Your Guests
Imagine a perfect welcome party venue that's laid back, has plenty of good local food and bevs, and enough space for people to relax and chill entertainment, like lawn games, beach or pool access, water sports, etc. It should also be close enough to your guests' final destination so they don't feel like they traveled across the country just to get back on the road again. Bonus points if you provide transportation from the welcome party to the hotel. WePostWeddings has rounded up our favorite New England venues that check all the boxes and would be absolutely perfect for a welcome party—and sorted them by city.
Kennebunkport, Maine, is home to several stunning venues that fit the bill. The first on our list is the Nonantum Resort, a family-owned property that sits directly on the Kennebunk River with seven waterfront acres, an on-site marina, multiple restaurants, and classic white New England architecture. Guests arriving at the Nonantum can enjoy oyster shuckers, lobster rolls, Aperol spritzes, Adirondack chairs overlooking the river, and live music on the lawn before sunset.
The Colony Hotel, perched above the Atlantic Ocean, is another must-visit destination. This historic hotel has welcomed guests since 1914 and is known for its grand wraparound porch, sweeping ocean views, saltwater pool, and timeless coastal elegance. The property celebrates classic Maine hospitality while encouraging guests to gather and enjoy the sea breeze together.
Hidden Pond, a luxury woodland retreat from the Kennebunkport Resort Collection, is a sophisticated choice for couples looking for a design-forward welcome party. Blending upscale dining with nature, the property encourages guests to reconnect around exceptional food, peaceful surroundings, and beautifully designed outdoor spaces.
Why These Venues Stand Out
So, what makes these venues so special? For starters, they all offer a unique blend of natural beauty, local charm, and upscale amenities. The Nonantum Resort's waterfront location and historic architecture make it a standout choice, while the Colony Hotel's grand porch and ocean views are simply breathtaking. Hidden Pond, on the other hand, offers a more intimate and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for couples looking for a design-forward welcome party.
In Stowe, Vermont, Edson Hill is an elegant boutique estate that offers refined Vermont hospitality with luxurious guest rooms, a celebrated restaurant, and beautifully landscaped grounds designed for gathering. Their event spaces specifically accommodate welcome parties, cocktail hours, rehearsal dinners, and farewell brunches, making it a perfect choice for couples who love the Nancy Meyers meets Ralph Lauren aesthetic.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak, located at the base of Mount Mansfield, is a luxury mountain village that offers multiple restaurants, terraces, outdoor lawns, and mountain-view gathering spaces. This makes it easy to host everything from welcome cocktails to brunches without anyone leaving the resort. The atmosphere is polished without feeling stuffy, and guests can immediately settle into "vacation mode."
Real Talk: What to Expect
When it comes to planning a welcome party, it's essential to choose a venue that checks all the boxes. With these New England venues, you can expect a seamless and stress-free experience that will leave your guests impressed and grateful. From the Nonantum Resort's waterfront location to the Colony Hotel's grand porch and ocean views, each of these venues offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will make your welcome party truly special.
In conclusion, if you're planning a New England wedding weekend, make sure to consider these stunning venues for your welcome party. With their unique blend of natural beauty, local charm, and upscale amenities, they're sure to impress your guests and make your welcome party truly unforgettable.
Source: Wedding Chicks
