14 Breathtaking Connecticut Wedding Venues on the Water
- 3 days ago
- 24 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Whether it’s the beach or lake side, views of Long Island Sound or the banks of the Connecticut River, these Connecticut wedding venues on the water all have their own brand of magic to offer to your ceremony and celebration. Below you’ll find 14 water side locations including links to each venue’s web site, average costs, ceremony options and special features — everything necessary to plan your nautiucal New England-themed nuptials.
In each listing, I share my own personal experiences with each venue and I have only listed sites where I have officiated. I’ll give my impression on working with the staff, the property and any tips you might want to consider. (Venues are not listed in any particular rank or order of preference over another.)
Connecticut Wedding Venues on the Water:
Tyde at Walnut Beach, Milford
Street Address: 72 Broadway, Milford, CT 06460
Water View: Long Island Sound (beachfront)
Website: http://www.tyde-walnutbeach.com
Average Cost per Person: Varies by day/season. Approximately $125–$200+ per person for weddings (site fee + catering + service fees apply)
Max Capacity: ~220 guests (190 with band), both indoor and outdoor spaces.
How Many Weddings at Once: One wedding at a time (one primary ballroom + outdoor areas).
Key Features:
Modern coastal event space with water views and outdoor terrace areas
Ceremony on or near the beach overlooking Long Island Sound
Chairs & setup included in ceremony fee
Multiple outdoor/indoor spaces for cocktail hour & reception
Contemporary style with custom menus & amenities included
Ceremonies At Tyde at Walnut Beach: You really can’t get much more “on the water” than this! Outdoor ceremonies take place on Tyde’s expansive patio or in their courtyard with panoramic views of Long Island Sound. Indoor ceremonies are on the dance floor in the ballroom overlooking the water through floor to ceiling windows.
Tyde at Walnut Beach is a relatively new constructed venue, built in the quaint Walnut Beach neighborhood of Milford, Connecticut. The Landino family owns this breathtaking modern property. They’ve also been hosting weddings at their other property, Cascade in Hamden, which they’ve owned since 2004.
Their extensive experience and professionalism are what makes officiating a ceremony at Tyde so easy for me. Coordinating with Rosa is always a pleasure and you can tell just by her interactions with the couples that she always has every part of their day well in hand. She is truly a partner with fellow vendors and can be seen pinning on boutonnieres or lining up the party for the opening processional with ease.
If I’m a little partial to working at Tyde it’s because, in my opinion, it’s one of the few places in Fairfield County that’s both extremely elegant and reasonably priced. And it doesn’t hurt that it’s the next town over from where I live in Stratford, as compared to my regular 1-hour trips to weddings!
I’m thrilled that Tyde has arrived to provide a perfect option for the couple seeking a beach side wedding with all the indoor amenities. Both getting ready rooms at Tyde are gorgeously appointed, providing the couple and their party everything they need, all in one place.
Ceremony shot, far right, by: @photorobskinner
The Inn at Longshore, Westport
Street Address: 260 Compo Road South, Westport, CT 06880
Water View: Long Island Sound shoreline (Saugatuck River inlet/Gold Coast)
Website: https://innatlongshore.com
Average Cost per Person: Typically $170–$265+ per person for peak wedding packages (varies by season/package); venue rental starts around ~$20,000+ depending on details. Max Capacity: Up to ~300 guests
How Many Weddings at Once: One wedding at a time on property
Key Features:
Historic inn with boutique hotel rooms (12 guest rooms)
Indoor/outdoor waterfront event options on classic Connecticut shoreline
Highly rated culinary and event coordination services
Only waterfront event venue in Westport area
Outdoor ceremony on lawn overlooking the Sound or lawn toward the water
Indoor ceremony in grand ballroom or covered lawn spaces
Cocktail hour outdoors with water views
Ceremonies at The Inn at Longshore:
The Inn at Longshore is another favorite for water view weddings in Fairfield County. The lawn at the back of the property looks over a serene inlet leading out to the Sound. Indoor ceremonies can be conducted in the grand ballroom or on covered lawn spaces. Located adjacent to the Longshore Golf Course, the entire venue combines a classic country club vibe, with the laid-back atmosphere of a New England garden party. There’s just something about this property that makes you feel like you’re on vacation — even if it’s just for a little while.
Ceremonies are pet friendly. I will never forget my couple Chelsea and Mike, who were joined for pictures by their extra-large, goofy but lovabale Berni-doodle, Roger.
Nestled in a prime location, guests coming up from New York or down from the New Haven area can easily reach it along the I-95 corridor.
I recently caught up with the Director of Sales and Marketing, Christine Hussey, who shared that the property is currently undergoing an extensive renovation, scheduled to re-open in August of 2026. She shared these conceptual drawings of what we can look forward to when the work is finished.
Longshore is another location where I consider my hairstyle and perhaps even a coordinating shawl for breezy afternoons. Because it’s a lawn ceremony, I always opt for flat dress shoes but prepare with another pair in my bag just in case we end up inside instead.
We've shared some great love stories at Longshore. Here a few of my couples I've had the honor of joining in marriage.
The Waterview, Monroe
Street Address: 215 Roosevelt Dr, Monroe, CT 06468
Water View: Lake Zoar (private lakeside views)
Website: https://www.waterviewcatering.com
Average Cost per Person: Different minimums for different nights of the week ranging from 100-150 adults. Average cost is about $150 per guest plus taxes and an operational fee.
Max Capacity: Each ballrooms max capacity is 225 and the Grand ballroom seats 600+
How Many Weddings at Once: Multiple spaces (East Ballroom, West Ballroom, Garden, Patio). Only 2 events at once but a full venue buy out is an option.
Key Features:
Private 13-acre estate on Lake Zoar with dramatic lakefront patios & gardens
Multiple ballrooms with floor-to-ceiling waterfront views
Experienced staff and extensive wedding support services
Ceremonies at The Waterview:
For outdoor ceremonies at The Waterview you have the West Garden or East Patio. Each area is adjacent to the side of the building that's closest to the West or East Ballroom where you’ll have your reception. The property is designed in a way that multiple events are well separated so even if your wedding is going on at the same time as another, you will never run into people that are not part of your event. Both outdoor areas feature breathtaking views of Lake Zoar, with plenty of opportunities for pre- and post-ceremony pictures.
In colder months or in case of bad weather, the Garden Room, situated in the lower lever of the building is a lovely ceremony option. It features marble floors and windows that run the entire length of the room, displaying the lake view behind the building.
I have officiated several weddings at The Waterview, all in either the Garden Room or in the West Garden. The West Garden features a well-manicured green lawn and a stone pathway leading to a arbor at the front of the ceremony area. There is also a fountain in the garden entry; a great place for group photos.
One of my favorite things about the West Garden is the long pathway from the building to the ceremony arbor. The walk the bride or partner must take builds the drama, excitement and anticipation of the moment. A few years ago, I had a groom who wanted to stand with his back turned as his bride walked up with her father. When she was almost upon us, I cued him to turn to see her. His reaction was everything they both wanted it to be. Happy tears everywhere! They had waited for this moment, and it had finally arrived! I will always remember that.
My other favorite thing about The Waterview is the staff. I’ve worked with Kat Urciuoli, the Events Manager, several times. It’s always smooth sailing and a feeling of well-oiled teamwork! Couples will not have to worry about a thing with their Waterview wedding!
(last image shot by @evermoreimaging. The rest are all taken by me.)
Anthony’s Oceanview, New Haven
Street Address: 450 Lighthouse Rd, New Haven, CT 06512
Water View: Connecticut shoreline / New Haven Harbor & beach views
Website: https://anthonysoceanview.com/
Average Cost per Person: Starting around ~$90+ per person for all-inclusive packages (varies widely by package).
Max Capacity: ~75–550 seated depending on ballroom/space choice
How Many Weddings at Once: Multiple ballrooms and outdoor garden/beach spaces mean several events can potentially be accommodated concurrently, but venue coordination required.
Key Features:
Beachfront destination wedding vibe with tropical gardens
Multiple ballroom sizes and garden/ceremony sites
All-inclusive catering and event services available
Ceremonies at Anthony’s Oceanview:
The headline on Anthony’s Oceanview web site reads “Your Destination Wedding at Home”. Where else in Connecticut will you get palm trees on the beach, year-round?! It’s a classic beach ceremony on the sand and harbor backdrop, perfect for newlywed strolls on the beach during golden hour. So far, I’ve only had the pleasure of officiating at Anthony’s once and unfortunately it rained on that July wedding, but the ceremony inside the ballroom was still beautifully setup and everything went smoothly. And just as it tends to do with New England summer weather, the rain stopped after the ceremony and the couple was able to get outside and take advantage of the beach for photos.
I’m excited to return to Anthony’s July 2026 so I will be sure to return and update this listing after that wedding. Hopefully we will be outside for that ceremony. All my officiant friends rave about it and I’m getting jealous I haven’t had the pleasure!
Stay tuned!
Madison Beach Hotel, Madison
Street Address: 94 West Wharf Road, Madison, CT 06443
Water View: Long Island Sound — private beachfront and sweeping ocean views.
Average Cost per Person: Mid level package is $279 per person. $3000 peak season ceremony fee.
Max Capacity: ~160 guests seated with dancing; up to ~180 without a dance floor.
How Many Weddings at One Time: One wedding at a time.
Key Features:
Boutique oceanfront hotel/resort with wrap-around balcony views of the Sound
Bridal suites and pre-wedding hospitality spaces
Complimentary valet, on-site parking, and tasting events
On-site accommodations and room blocks available
Ceremonies at Madison Beach Hotel:
I’ve only had the pleasure of officiating two ceremonies at Madison Beach Hotel but I’m dying to return. This panoramic pic I took before one of the weddings says it all. It is wedding and beach vacation all in one. Both of my ceremonies took place on the lawn overlooking the beach but there’s also an option for a private beachfront ceremony. Situated further east along the Connecticut shoreline, you’re beginning to experience beaches that face the ocean and less of Long Island Sound. In case of bad weather, the Waterfront Ballroom is your indoor ceremony location as a back-up.
I’m thrilled that Madison Beach Hotel has recently hired on Tiffany Blake as a Wedding & Events Specialist. Not only is Tiffany just an incredibly lovely, warm and fun person, but she is also an experienced officiant herself! This makes her an invaluable asset when it comes to ceremony advice.
This is what Tiffany had to say about Madison Beach Hotel weddings:
“I love that the Madison Beach Hotel wedding ceremonies have an expansive backdrop of the sound. I feel like many venues have the stunning water views but surrounded by boats in your photos and barely get the water.
We have private entrances, so the processional doesn't have to come through the public areas (lobby, The Wharf restaurant). I LOVE that the entire side of our hotel absolutely glows during golden hour. The sunsets are just magnificent and light up the ballroom.
The private covered veranda keeps guests out of the sun and shelters them from rain. Private and beautiful. The boutique hotel has 32 rooms and 2 suites. Its intimate and entire staff gets to know you and you get to know them. You meet with the team that will be with you in your wedding day which brings such comfort”.
(Images provided by venue)
Saint Clement’s Castle & Marina, Portland
Street Address: 1931 Portland-Cobalt Road, Portland, CT 06480
Website: https://www.saintclementscastle.com/
Water View: Connecticut River views from estate and marina; scenic riverside backdrops for each space.
Average Cost per Person: Pricing often starts in the $120–$150/person range depending on peak/off-peak and package details.
Max Capacity:
Prince Edward Ballroom: Up to ~260 guests seated
Waterford Room: ~210
River’s Edge Marina space: ~140
How Many Weddings at One Time: One wedding per booking. Venue spaces are reserved exclusively for your event.
Key Features:
Historic castle estate with multiple event spaces
Riverside views from courtyards, ballrooms, and marina
All-inclusive venue (in-house catering, décor rentals, day-of coordination)
Outdoor “Overlook” site with views of Connecticut River
Indoor backup space in ballrooms or adjacent event spaces: (e.g., Prince Edward Ballroom or Waterford Room,)
Option to book the entire main estate for event
Customize your event spaces for early arrivals, ceremony, fully seated backup ceremony options, cocktail hour, reception, dancing and after party!
Ceremonies at St. Clements Castle:
Every inch of this property feels like it’s been pulled from the pages of a fairy tale. I have officiated ceremonies on both the lawn behind the main estate building that overlooks the river below ,as well as down the bottom of hill at the marina. Both my ceremonies were outside, but the Prince Edward and Waterford rooms make excellent spaces for indoor ceremonies if need be. I prefer the lawn at the marina rather than the dock, which though is much closer to the water, could get windy and noisy if boats go by during the ceremony.
My practical advice to couples is always make sure you’re getting your license in the right town as St Clements is one of those properties that’s a little tricky. The mailing address is Portland, but the marina is technically in East Hampton. Always call the town clerk and tell them exactly where you are getting married and if that’s the right town to obtain your marriage license. (The staff at St. Clements was great in helping me sort this out just to be sure we were all good!)
Branford House, Groton
Street Address: 1084 Shennecossett Road, Groton, CT 06340
Water View: Overlooks Long Island Sound — panoramic water and lighthouse views
Average Cost per Person: Venue site fees vary by season; reception packages via external caterers; typically, moderate to premium range.
Max Capacity: ~200 guests, indoor. Larger numbers possible with outdoor tent.
How Many Weddings at One Time: One wedding at a time (exclusive venue booking).
Key Features:
Historic mansion venue on Connecticut shoreline
Multiple indoor/outdoor spaces — gardens, patios, tented lawn
Scenic architectural backdrops perfect for photos
Outdoor ceremony on lawn with waterfront and mansion views
Indoor ceremony options in mansion rooms
Tent option on lawn adjacent to mansion for ceremonies or receptions
Ceremonies at Branford House:
I’ve only had the honor of officiating one ceremony so far as Branford House but I have also been a guest at a wedding there so I can attest that it’s truly a unique location. A mansion, that feels more like a castle AND an ocean view? For couples seeking historical charm, it’s got all it in spades.
The ceremony I officiated in May of 2025 was unforgettable. Once again, the unpredictable New England weather toyed with us all day forcing the couple to opt for a ceremony on the mansion back patio instead of its original location on the lawn. This was a good call as we got about 10 minutes of the ceremony in before it started to rain. But we carried on, the bride sheltered under a clear umbrella held by her chivalrous brother and their parents huddled close for a ring blessing.
Through the talent of photographer, Tiffany Aronne, I feel like you can barely tell it’s raining in this images and soon after the ceremony, the sun came out and we all gathered on the patio again for introductions and dances. To get us out of the rain as soon as we could, I cut the love story portion of the ceremony from the script, but the couple asked me to read it outside before the toasts so everyone could hear it. Another example of how it all works out, no matter what Connecticut weather brings you.
Branford House Special Events Manager, Bethany Langenbach says
“Couples love the freedom the Branford House offers to create a wedding that feels truly their own. From choosing the food and vendors they love to arranging the rooms, patio, and waterfront lawn exactly how they envision, every celebration here is completely customizable and unforgettable.”
Here's a video walk-through I made of the property.
The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, Haddam
Street Address: 55 Bridge Road, Haddam, CT 06438
Website: https://theriverhouse.com/weddings/
Water View: Connecticut River frontage Scenic outlook across from Goodspeed Opera House and Haddam Swing Bridge.
Average Cost per Person: Venue/site fees start around ~$8,200+ for space; full per-person pricing depends on menu/packages and guest count.
Max Capacity: ~250–300 guests (ballroom space).
How Many Weddings at One Time: Only one wedding per date.
Key Features:
Elegant venue with riverfront views and upscale interior
All-inclusive or customizable packages — food, beverage, linens
Bridal & groom prep suites, private garden areas
Excellent culinary reputation and service staff
Ceremonies at The Riverhouse:
The Riverhouse will always have a special place in my heart. My husband and I had our wedding reception there back in 2008 shortly after they opened. The care and attention to detail the staff showed us back then has not changed and it’s really been special to have returned to the Riverhouse on several occasions, now as an officiant.
Outdoor ceremonies take place on a completely covered and very spacious patio adjacent to the back deck that runs the length of the building. The ballroom and atrium spaces can be utilized for indoor ceremonies. I once performed a November ceremony in the lower-level banquet room so they would not have to use the main ballroom but you'd have to check with the event managers if that's still an option.
While the water view access is not as direct as some of the other properties listed here, The Riverhouse is down the road from the Goodspeed Opera House and the famous swing bridge that crosses the Connecticut River. Many couples opt to have their first look there to get water view pictures on the dock. The river can also be seen from the expansive back deck of the ballroom.
Both getting ready suites are beautifully appointed; one overlooking the main atrium at the top of the stairs and the other in the lower level with a TV and card table. One of my favorite features is the staircase in the center atrium which leads to a balcony that overlooks the ballroom, perfect for tossing the bouquet to the crowd on the dance floor below.
My Riverhouse ceremonies have featured some very interesting rituals. One couple did a black and tan ceremony combining a light and a dark beer and a custom pint glass that they made together. Another couple sealed their vows with a shot of tequila before I pronounced them married. Every Riverhouse wedding goes smoothly and the staff is so kind that each time I return it always feels like I'm coming home.
Exterior of this building is from our 2008 wedding before they had covered the patio.
My wedding shots are Lunelle Troy. All others are by me.
Penfield and Jacky Durrell Pavillion, Fairfield
Street Address: 323 Fairfield Beach Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
General Inquiry Email: GBrown@fairfieldct.org (booking info & availability)
Phone: (203) 256-3195
Water View: Long Island Sound beachfront — both pavilions sit right on Fairfield Beach with panoramic sound views.
Average Cost per Person: Not typically priced per person — venues rent by time/date. Packages vary by residency, season, day, and size
Penfield: ~$1,750–$6,000;
Jacky Durrell: ~$650–$2,500;
weekday/off-peak vs weekend/peak).
Outside catering is required. (I recommend Spice Catering)
Max Capacity:
Penfield Pavilion: ~180 seated (up to ~300 standing/cocktail).
Jacky Durrell Pavilion: ~125 guests.
How Many Weddings at Once: Each pavilion is typically rented exclusively for one event at a time; the two venues are separate so occasional simultaneous bookings in each pavilion are possible.
Key Features:
Two distinct beachfront venues offering both modern and intimate vibes.
Unobstructed water views, covered decks for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions.
Ideal for couples seeking a classic beach wedding without hotel resort ties.
Ceremonies at Penfield & Jacky Durrell
I have officiated at Jacky Durrell once and Penfield Pavilion twice all which happened to take place inside but ceremonies on the decks attached to each building facing the sand are an option. Both sites offer the relaxing and romantic beach vibe with the blank slate to craft the entire event just as you see fit according to your style theme and budget.
Events Director, Gaylen Brown had this to say about the properties:
“What makes our pavilions special is the combination of breathtaking waterfront scenery and total creative freedom. Couples of all budgets are able to design a wedding that feels uniquely theirs; from choosing their own vendors to customizing the layout — all in a setting that feels both relaxed and unforgettable. There truly aren’t many venues in Fairfield County that offer this level of flexibility on the water.”
The indoor setup at Penfield Pavilion positions the ceremony area and seating at the back of the room with the water view through the floor to ceiling windows as the backdrop. The other half of the room can be set up for dinner and adjusted later post ceremony. At Jacky Durrell the room is smaller so guests will need to sit at their dinner table for the ceremony.
If trying to decide between which pavilion is right for you I feel that the advantage that Penfield Pavilion has is the lobby and hallway area that wraps around the main room. This gives a place for the wedding party to wait before they are lined up for processional and a hideaway for the couple so that the guests do not see them before the ceremony.
Jacky Durrell has no extra room for the couple or the wedding party to wait before the ceremony begins. I have recommended renting a mobile wedding suite and parking it across the street. The other option could be to wait in a limo or party bus until the ceremony starts. No matter what site or even time of year pre- and post-ceremony pictures on the sand can't be beat. I've had couples go out from January, September and October; never a bad time for a newlywed stroll on the sand.
Main Street Essex Park, Essex
Street Address: Main St, Essex, next to the Post Office, 12 Main Street.
Public park, often used for ceremonies and photos — not a dedicated wedding venue with built-in services.
Contact: Parks and Recreation Director Mary Ellen Barnes mbarnes@essexct.gov for info and permits. I highly recommend working with a planner. Diana Sullivan of Jubilee Events created the wedding I officiated and her insights are below.
Water View: Middle Cove, an Inlet of the Connecticut River.
Fees: The park has reasonable deposit of $500 (as of 2024). Liability insurance is also required.
How Many Weddings at Once: This is a public space but the wedding planner stated that their permit entitled them to sole usage of the space and no other events, regardless of size would be permitted.
Ceremony Experience:
This idyllic park nestled right in the middle of Main Street in downtown Essex is not a typical wedding venue but the ceremony I experienced there on August 24, 2024 stays with me. Set back from the sidewalk far enough to forget where you are, is the most gorgeous tree! Just beyond that, is the water view of Middle Cove, an inlet from the Connecticut River. This is where Rosalind and Tony had their dream wedding ceremony.
For details on how this moment was achieved I got back in touch with the couple’s wedding planner, Diana Sullivan of Jubilee Events, who was so kind to share all the site planning details with me for this blog.
The space needs to be reserved through Essex Parks and Recreation department and Diana was happy to report that they were a pleasure to work with. A deposit check was required but not cashed until the event was completely over and vacated, to confirm that there was no damage or trash left behind. She also mentioned that if the wedding is over 150 people that the couple needs to contact a town trooper for extra safety and peace of mind for the community.
The ceremony area is set far enough back from the main road that it wasn’t very close to any foot traffic and Diana said that any curious onlookers were very respectful. This is not always the case with other wedding venues where a beach or lake is open to the public.
A tent was not permitted in the park, so the rain plan was to have the ceremony down the street at the Essex Yacht Club, where the reception was being held, but fortunately that back up plan was not needed. For late August in Connecticut, it was the most beautiful day, and I honestly could have stayed in that park, staring at the amazing tree for hours.
In this dreamy location, Roz and Tony shared heartfelt, personally written vows and included a wine sharing ceremony, featuring wine made by the groom's grandfather.
After the ceremony, the couple was whisked away via boat across the inlet entering the Essex Yacht Club via their own dock in style! If you visit Essex Park and want to have your ceremony there, I highly recommend working with Diana from Jubilee Events since she has experienced the whole process and it an absolute lovely person.
The Lace Factory, Deep River
Street Address: 161 River Street, Deep River, CT 06417
Website: https://www.thelacefactory.com/
Water View: Connecticut River waterfront (venue sits right on the river and historic steam train waterfront area).
Average Cost per Person: Typically venue-only pricing (custom quotes) — many wedding planners estimate venue rental into ~$10K+ range; catering usually separate.
Max Capacity: ~200–240 guests (depends on layout and add-ons).
How Many Weddings at Once: One main event at a time, exclusive venue use.
Key Features:
Industrial-style historic venue with dramatic river views.
Multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony setup options.
Iconic location adjacent to Essex Steam Train & Riverboat attractions.
Guests can arrive at the venue via the Essex Steam Train
Ceremonies at The Lace Factory:
I always say that for such a small state, it’s unbelievable how many beautiful wedding venues there are here and The Lace Factory is one of my faves. The heartbreaking part is that it’s almost an hour away from me, but such is the case with most places that are worth the travel and experience. At this point, I’ve just grown used to the commute, if it means getting to officiate weddings in such unique places.
Dating from the late 1800s, once a factory vital to the Connecticut River busy shipping region, The Lace Factory combines that historic charm with its industrial high ceilings and exposed brick work.
There are three areas to host a ceremony and I’ve experienced them all. Inside the main building, a ceremony space is curtained off from the dining area. Later, that area converts to the dance floor for the celebration. Just outside of the windows of that main room is a green courtyard. Long and narrow, it’s the perfect juxtaposition of the brick on one side and garden on the other. For a second outdoor area, Deep River Landing is directly across the street from the venue, over the railroad tracks that will transport the guests to the ceremony, via the Essex Steam Train. It’s really an impressive element to add to your event! (The Essex Steam Train station also has a unique room for weddings and couples have utilized both venues for an upscale, multi-location experience.)
Venue staff and coordinators at the Lace create the magic that couples are looking and that guests can feel as soon as they walk in the door. One of my favorite features is that they always decorate the hallway that leads to the main ballroom with pictures provided by the couple. The pictures tell the couple’s relationship story or create a walk back in time; featuring the wedding photos of their parents, grandparents and other past generations.
One bride chose to honor the generations of women in her family by having their wedding gowns displayed in the lounge area near the bar of the main room. I suppose this idea could be done anywhere but perhaps it’s the because The Lace Factory itself is steeped in so much of its own history, that it seems like the most appropriate place to honor these generations. The Lace Factory has been home to some of my favorite couples, ceremonies with heartfelt vows, readings and memorable rituals.
The Lake House, Wolcott
Street Address: 66 Central Ave, Wolcott, CT 06716
Website: http://thelakehousecatering.com/
Water View: Private lake on property (views from indoor spaces and outdoor terraces).
Average Cost per Person & Max Capacity: Venue rental varies widely by season; packages from ~$115–$200+ per person typical. Max capacity around 300 guests (depending on configuration).
How Many Weddings at Once: Exclusive use of the venue for your event.
Key Features:
Waterfront lake views with modern interior and expansive glass.
Versatile indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremony and reception.
Large property with scenic grounds and panoramic views.
Ceremonies at The Lake House:
I don’t know what it is with me and magical trees, but The Lake House is home to another beauty, a weeping willow. The property is in a quiet residential neighborhood and backs up to a small pond. I've only officiated 2 weddings there, but they were both for two very special couples. The site was perfect to meet their needs and match their personalities.
Joanna and Nate came to me after I married Nate’s sister Brittany a few years earlier. By then, she had grown her family with husband Geoff and two kids. This is one of my favorite things about officiating — returning to a family for another wedding and getting to see old faces once again!
Lisa and Julia’s story of two roommates who became friends and then something more was enchanting and their personal vows had me trying to keep it together to finish the ceremony with a dry eye.
Each time, the staff at The Lake House was kind and welcoming to me and both ceremonies went off without a hitch. If bad weather forced an inside ceremony, I’m told it would take place in the ballroom still overlooking the trees, marsh grasses and pond in the background. Maybe it’s because it’s nestled in a neighborhood but The Lake House has the comfort of a backyard event — without the hassle of hosting it in your own house!
If you love beautiful trees, green lawns and a water view backdrop, The Lake House should be on your list to explore!
Candlewood Inn, Brookfield
Street Address: 506 Candlewood Lake Rd, Brookfield, CT
Website: https://www.thecandlewoodinn.com/
Water View: Candlewood Lake (direct lakefront and panoramic lake views).
Average Cost per Person: Custom-priced based on date/guest count
Max Capacity: ~250 guests.
How Many Weddings at Once: One event at a time for the banquet/wedding space.
Key Features:
Classic lakeside wedding venue with panoramic lake views.
Scenic outdoor areas for ceremony and cocktail hour with sunset lake views.
Elegant indoor reception spaces framed by the lake.
Ceremonies at Candlewood Inn:
The last time I was at Candlewood Inn was in August of 2023 and the couple opted for a morning time ceremony on the back lawn facing the lake in front of the gazebo. The path to the gazebo slopes a bit downward towards the structure so guests are situated just above before it begins to descend. The natural landscape means that the folks in the back still have a great view of the ceremony, sitting slightly higher than those in the front.
Candlewood Lake is surrounded by homes and there’s no restriction on the water traffic while ceremonies are taking place. The gazebo is far enough away from the water’s edge that we couldn’t hear any shoutouts from passersby.
Maile and Jake had a great story, having spent many years at camp together before they started dating. Their ceremony featured a ring blessing by their parents who stood with them, giving some extra support before they put their rings on.
The rest of the property is gorgeous, especially if you have a sunny day and there is plenty of places for post ceremony pictures and family group shots.
I'm excited to return to Candlewood Inn this November where that couple is hoping we'll have a warm enough fall to host their ceremony outside as well. I’ll be sure to update my Candlewood experience then!
The Hounds, Stonington
Street Address: 769 Stonington Rd, Stonington, CT 06378
Website: https://www.thehoundsstonington.com/
Water View: Saltwater marsh near Stonington and Mystic Harbor (views of tidal creek and marshland).
Average Cost per Person & Max Capacity: Pricing typically starts ~$5,000–$6,500 for venue space (not including catering; depends on date/season). Max capacity ~200 seated (300 standing/cocktail).
How Many Weddings at Once: One wedding at a time.
Key Features:
Nautical-themed venue with saltwater marsh views.
Versatile indoor/outdoor layouts including terrace with pergola and heaters.
Spacious ballroom with nautical bar and scenic natural backdrop.
Ceremony experience:
Last September of 2025 was my first time at The Hounds, proving that no matter how long I’ve been doing this work, there are still lovely and unique places to see. The outdoor ceremony for Jessica and Ben took place behind the property, just beyond the terrace, with the marsh as their backdrop. If weather required the ceremony to be inside, I was told that the Quarterdeck Room has glass doors to see the terrace and lawn in the back. The outside area creates the vibe of a relaxed garden party. The processional entered along a white gravel path leading almost to the marsh’s edge.
For this ceremony, I worked with photographer, Courtney Cohen, who had the genius idea to shoot the couple’s first kiss from behind the arbor in order to get the guests applauding them in the background of the shot. Together, we worked out the coordination of exactly where and when I was going to step, so we were all set when the big moment arrived.
While the space behind the property isn’t exactly a typical water view, The Hounds is however conveniently located less than 10 minutes away from The Lighthouse Museum for post ceremony pictures. The couple and their wedding party were transported via an old-fashioned style trolley to their waterfront photoshoot. This is why I think The Hounds earns a well-deserved honorable mention on this list.
Here's what bride, Jessica, had to say about their wedding experience at The Hounds:
"The Hounds was the perfect location to host our end of September wedding. From the bridal suite and groom's room, the reception room and bar, to the outside terrace, and gorgeous ceremony lawns surrounded by the nature preserve, everything was amazing. We loved how the coastal elements were lightly sprinkled in around the property. The owners, Gleanna and Clay were so nice and they have truly done an amazing renovation on the entire space. All of our guests commented on how beautiful and intimate the venue was and how convenient it was having everything in one place. Linda, the event manager, was also so helpful throughout the entire planning process and was very responsive to all my little questions."
There you have it! A complete list of 14 breathtaking and unique Connecticut wedding venues on the water. I hope this information was helpful to you. If you need to book your officiant for your upcoming ceremony, please reach out anytime. I'm always happy to answer questions and share info on the amazing vendors I've worked with who will be excited to make your wedding dream a reality!
Kathy Vass is a professional Wedding Officiant from Stratford, Connecticut. She specializes in custom ceremonies centered around the couple's love story. She officiates throughout Connecticut and has traveled to Massachusetts and Rhode Island for weddings as well. For more info about her services, see the wedding ceremonies page of this site.
P: 203-526-9675
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