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garden variety
Trust us; if a flower crown is a“ must” for your big day, than so is one of the following venues.
With thirty-three acres of flowers and greenery, Blithewold has plenty of spectacular, photo-op worthy scenery. Their garden weddings are held right next to the remarkable century-old mansion. 101 Ferry Rd., Bristol, 401-253-2707, blithewold. org.
Want all the flora of a tropical paradise without the hassle of a destination wedding? The Botanical Gardens at Roger Williams has 12,000 square feet of greenhouse space filled with exotic plants and pretty fountains that are perfect wedding backdrop material. 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, 401-785-9450, providenceri. com / botanical-center.
Made up of creeks, ponds, forests, flowers and picturesque bridges, Country Gardens certainly lives up to its name. The natural paradise is perfect for couples looking to get married away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. 339 Tremont St., Rehoboth, MA, 508-336-4053, countrygardens. ws.
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ALSO CHECK OUT: The Farmer’ s Daughter; Meadow Brook Inn
History buffs rejoice! These oldies but goodies will have you and your spouse saying:“ And the rest is history.”
For fans of military happenings, there’ s no better local spot than Fort Adams. Built in 1799, the fort’ s history is only rivalled by its masterful architecture and scenic location overlooking the mouth of Narragansett Bay. 90 Fort Adams Dr., Newport, 401-619-5801, fortadams. org.
Grace Episcopal Church offers the best of both worlds in downtown Providence: You can host your ceremony in its breathtaking, historic chapel( circa 1846) and then simply make your way through the connector towards its brand new 3,000 square foot pavilion( complete with an all-glass façade and high vaulted ceilings) for a reception with just a touch of modernity. 175 Mathewson St., Providence, 401-331-3225, gracechurchprovidence. com.
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For those of you who want to write,“ Join us for a small, intimate celebration” in fancy calligraphy on those lovely invitations.
Want to ensure that your exclusive guest list enjoys a top notch meal on your wedding night? Basta isn’ t a Best of Rhode Island favorite for nothing; they’ re especially known for their locally sourced yet internationally influenced menu( which includes artisan Neapolitan pizzas and a robust wine list). The restaurant is also extremely versatile, able to accommodate parties in the casual elegance of their dining room or out on the spacious, private Terrazza. 2195 Broad St., Cranston, 401-461-2300, basta onbroad. com
The Wine Salon, Chapel Grille’ s very own private wedding space, has it all: a quaint hilltop location, a beautiful dance floor, a fullservice bar and French doors that open to a secluded garden terrace. They also provide custom floor plans, locally sourced Mediterranean Italian-influenced cuisine and experienced wedding coordinators that are happy to help design a personal yet memorable event. 3000 Chapel View Blvd., Cranston, 401-944- 4900, chapelgrilleri. com.
With four locations to choose from, any iteration of Jacky’ s Galaxie makes a wonderful choice for a smaller affair. Their Bristol location is home to three unique, aptly-named spaces, including the Fireside Lounge, Galaxie Ballroom and Crystal Ballroom, while the North Providence site has two private, multifaceted banquet rooms. 383 Metacom Ave., Bristol, 401-253-8818; 1488 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence, 401-353-0080, jackysgalaxie. com.
Situated on Federal Hill, Massimo is well-versed in the ways of small intimate gatherings. And with catering options like light passed hors d’ oeuvres and chef stations stocked with fresh, locally sourced and innovative fare, they understand that a couple’ s menu is often the centerpiece of a wedding. They even offer two charming event spaces: a roomy dining room with giant sliding doors that lend an al fresco feel and an upstairs, glassenclosed function room with a full bar and lounge. 134 Atwells Ave., Providence, 401-273-0650, massimori. com.
ALSO CHECK OUT: Eleven Forty Nine; Pane e Vino
You can get your historical fixings with the Squantum Association ' s authentic bronze cannon.
Well over two hundred years old, Slater Mill remains one of the most important sites in New England’ s industrial history. Its riverside location, historic charm and modern amenities make it a great venue for local history lovers. 65 Roosevelt Ave., Pawtucket, 401-725-8638, slatermill. org.
Gracing the shores of Narragansett Bay since 1872, the Squantum Association has hosted everyone from socialites to presidents to newlywed couples at its time-honored Colonial-Revival style club house. But the piece de resistance is the bronze canon that sits on the venue’ s beautiful front lawn. Said to be the only Union canon brought off the battlefield at Bull Run, the Squantum Association uses it to kick off each wedding reception with a( literal) bang. 947 Veterans Memorial Pkwy., Riverside, 401-434-8377, squantumassociation. com.
ALSO CHECK OUT: The Lippitt House Museum
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