As a wedding photographer based in Connecticut, I have the inside scoop on the best outdoor wedding venues in New England. There’s something special about getting married outside, don’t you think? The combination of sunshine, gentle breezes, and the unique sights and sounds of every season. Whether you’re in a garden, in the woods, or by the ocean, the beautiful New England nature makes every outdoor wedding feel magical.

There are countless venues I could feature, but I’ve narrowed it down to my four favorites! I’ve shot at each of these venues, so I can give you my tried and true opinions on what makes these great options for outdoor wedding venues in New England!

Stone Acres Farm in Stonington, CT

We’re starting strong with Stone Acres Farm! This stunning farm is full of historic charm and natural beauty. You start the day by getting ready in the historic home right there on the property! Then, you can have your first look literally anywhere because it’s all gorgeous. You have your ceremony in the sunken garden, surrounded by colorful blooms, and then sneak off for couple’s portraits in the golden wheat field! Then, you can join your guests for cocktail hour in the small tent, and then migrate to the larger tent for your reception.

And you want to know one of the best parts of hosting your wedding at Stone Acres Farm? They really know what they’re doing. The staff works like a well-oiled machine, making sure everything is perfect for your big day.

A distant shot of the sunken garden ceremony space at Stone Acres Farm

A bride and groom get ready for their wedding in the historical home at Stone Acres Farm

A wedding couple poses in front of the white historic home at Stone Acres Farm

Couple's portraits around the gardens of an outdoor wedding venue in New England

A bride and groom kiss under the arbor at Stone Acres Farm

Want to see more from Kate and Jake’s wedding at Stone Acres Farm? Read this blog!

Smith Farm Gardens in East Haddam, CT

Smith Farm Gardens is one of my all-time favorite outdoor wedding venues in New England. I’ve shot many weddings here and am always excited to return for more! There are two buildings you can choose to get ready in, and you can’t choose wrong because they’re both beautifully set up. One of the unique perks of getting married at Smith Farm Gardens is that you can choose from multiple ceremony locations! There are multiple gardens, wooded paths, a fireplace, and a large tent for an outdoor reception. There’s even an indoor option for smaller weddings.

Everything about the venue gives off secret garden vibes. If you’re looking for a unique, fairytale-inspired outdoor wedding venue in New England, this might be the place for you! I can speak from experience that the owners are amazing, and you will have an absolutely amazing wedding here.

A view of the historic home at Smith Farm Gardens

Flowers blooming in red, pink, white, and yellow along a white picket fence at an outdoor wedding venue in New England

A couple takes wedding portraits among pink hydrangeas at Smith Farm Gardens

A couple stands together outside the farmhouse at Smith Farm Gardens

A first look on the porch of an outdoor wedding venue in the winter

A bride and groom kiss in the entryway to Smith Farm Gardens around Christmastime

A Christmas-themed wedding at Smith Farm Gardens

Jonathan Edwards Winery in North Stonington, CT

Are you looking for a venue with classic New England charm? You need to see Jonathan Edwards Winery! The white building (with a built-in getting-ready space!) is surrounded by acres of vineyards. A ceremony hidden in the vineyards is beautiful in every season and from every angle! And after your ceremony, you can rest beneath their spacious white canvas tent and dance the night away.

Oh, and did I mention the barrel room? One of the most unique features of this venue is the room stacked with wine barrels. It gives your event a rustic, yet elegant atmosphere. This venue is perfect for wine lovers and anyone seeking an authentic New England wedding experience.

A bride and groom stand in the vineyards at Jonathan Edwards Winery, an outdoor wedding venue in New England

Wedding portraits of a bride and groom walking down stone steps outside of a vineyard

A bride and groom exchange private vows at an outdoor wedding venue in New England

A tented wedding reception at Jonathan Edwards Winery

The Salem Herbfarm in Salem, CT

Last but not least is the Salem Herbfarm! These stunning gardens are one of the absolute dreamiest outdoor wedding venues in New England. Choose from multiple locations for your ceremony, and have your reception in the greenhouse or the barn. No matter which location you choose, your wedding is guaranteed to have the most magical garden party vibes!

The Salem Herbfarm is at its best from May to September, but it has incredible foliage in October as well. I think this venue is one of New England’s best-kept secrets, and I cannot wait to shoot more weddings here!

The trellis-covered walkway at Salem Herbfarm, an ourdoor wedding venue in New England

A couple gets married beneath a vine-covered trellis at an Outdoor wedding venue in New England, the Salem Herbfarm

Couple's portraits around the blooming gardens at Salem Herbfarm

A view of the Salem Herbfarm reception building glowing warmly in the night darkness

A couple stands beneath a trellis with white fabric during their fall wedding ceremony at the Salem Herbfarm

Couple's portraits capturing the red and gold fall foliage at the Salem Herbfarm

A wedding reception space decorated for fall with mini pumpkins at each place setting

Which Outdoor Wedding Venue in New England is Right for You?

Have you fallen in love with any of those venues? If so, I don’t blame you! Each one has its own unique charm and will make for a beautiful, unforgettable wedding day. I’ve worked with each of these venues and can promise you that your wedding can not only be gorgeous, but it can also be effortless.

When you work with experienced venues (and a photographer who knows their way around!), you can rest, knowing that everything will be taken care of. I work closely with you and your other vendors to ensure everything runs smoothly. I make sure you have time for what matters most: soaking in the best day of your life with the people you love! Check out my wedding photography packages or inquire to secure your New England wedding date.