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Community Corner

Tying the Knot in Fairfield County

Southwestern Connecticut boast many popular wedding destinations for locals and out-of-towners alike.

Who needs an expensive destination wedding on a remote island when so many beautiful and romantic locations are offered right here in Fairfield County?

Whether it's a stone castle on 300 acres of property or a charming inn on the river, southwestern Connecticut offers it all when it comes to exceptional wedding settings — charm, history, beauty, and convenience.

One familiar favorite is Waveny Castle in New Canaan. The cherished landmark was built by Texaco founder Lewis Lapham in 1912 and donated to the town of New Canaan in 1967.

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Its 300-acre spread of fields, wooded trails, expansive terraces, and walled rose gardens make Waveny one of the most spectacular and romantic wedding locales around.

Susan Goodman, longtime New Canaan resident, has catered many weddings at Waveny Castle over the past 25 years. Goodman said she believes that Waveny is the perfect spot for a wedding because of its timeless beauty and spacious layout.

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“There are so many choices at Waveny. If the weather isn’t great, and a rose garden wedding is out, then ceremonies can be held in the main room and still have a feeling of intimacy," said Goodman. "The estate has enough space for many different options, plus the kitchen is fabulous, which makes food preparation very efficient."

Another popular wedding spot just north of New Canaan is the famous Le Chateau. This grand castle, built by JP Morgan in 1908, is perched upon a 32-acre ridge overlooking the Hudson Valley, which provides for awe-inspiring views.

Banquet Manager Christine Tirado said that the gardens at LeChateau are a premier place to be wed.

“We have couples from all over the world who choose Le Chateau becauseof the uniquely private setting and wonderful food.  The food is  french-continental, but can be tailored to the tastes of any ethnicity,“ said Tirado.

In recent years, she has noticed a trend in smaller guest lists, tighter budgets, and later bookings — likely a sign of tough financial times.

Although estate settings are a good way to go, there are plenty of local waterfront locations for those who prefer the sea.

One such spot is the Inn at Longshore. Situated on the coast in Westport, Longshore offers one of the more sought-after sites on the Connecticut shoreline. 

One of Longshore's top features is its great lawn, which slopes down to the water's edge and plays host to many ceremonies and cocktail receptions. The inn also provides 12 guestrooms, an 18-hole golf course, and a menu from award-winning chefs. Longshore has been voted by Fairfield County Weekly as "the best place to have a reception" for the last 3 years in a row.

"Having a wedding at the Inn is considered a destination spot for people from New York, Boston, and Philadelphia," said Director of Sales Christine Hussey. "The inn offers a full experience for wedding guests including: golf, swimming, kayaking and tennis all in a private setting."

Another popular waterfront location is L'escale in Greenwich. Located next to the Delamar Hotel, this French Provençal restaurant offers a large banquet hall that opens out onto a deck overlooking the Harbor.

"L'Escale serves an inventive Provençal menu in an atmosphere that captures the warm sun, sea breezes & evocative scents of Southern France," said Justine Mercer of Greenwich, a frequent customer.

Others opt for the Stonehenge Restaurant and Inn in Ridgefield. Set on 10 acres along a lake, Stonehenge offers a peaceful, unpretentious country charm.

"Our service, quality of food and classic New England setting makes us special," said Douglas Seville, events planner for the inn. Stonehenge offers 16 guest rooms plus access to golf and tennis facilities.

Sharon Reekstin of Events and Weddings by Design noted that many country clubs in the area are "allowing people to book weddings at the clubs on recommendation, not on membership."

That's likely to come as welcome news for anyone seeking the classic country club wedding without those classic country club dues.

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