We’re bringing you the must-see wedding vendors to visit for a mini-moon getaway at the Finger Lakes. You and your bae are in quarantine now, some couples postponed their weddings, while some canceled, a mini-moon getaway at the Finger Lakes will put the sexy back into your relationship. After this is all done, businesses will open back up, and we want to extend a hand to other small businesses in the area. Plus, who doesn’t want to sip on some wine with your boo and explore a mini-moon at the Finger Lakes while you plan your wedding? However, we know that planning trips can get stressful! Here’s a carefully curated list of places to stay, eat and visit to enjoy your stay! Due to COVID-19, some of these vendors may have changed their policies or availability. Find more amazing wedding vendors, head here!
Photos courtesy of Marie Violet Photography & Fausel Imagery
Roll into your big day with style! Chenango County Coach is vintage with a modern twist. They provide the world’s only 1937 Studebaker Dictator limousine and travel anywhere in Upstate NY, adding sparkle to your wedding day. Twenty years after buying the limousine, Christopher Lord and Joanne Barello opened up their transportation business, Chenango County Coach. Chris worked his ass off to restore the car to its former glory, and the result speaks for itself. Unlike other limos. the intricate details on this one are exceptional. With handmade backseats made to look like parlor couches, new interiors, stereo and air conditioning, this beauty comfortably seats four. Couples get their red carpet moment with this escorting them to their venue. Did we mention it photographs well? You might have to move over because this one is a beaut!
Photos courtesy of Megan Dailor Photography
Crispin Hill’s venue is tucked away on a nine-acre hillside three miles outside of Penn Yan, NY. This gem offers an incredible view of Keuka Lake and its surroundings. In 2015, Heather Hopkins and Chelsey Madia bought Crispin Hill Farm, fulfilling a long life dream. Heather works as the executive chef, preparing top-notch catering for events. Chelsey works as the bridal coordinator, helping couples piece together the details for their wedding at Crispin Hill. These two don’t overlook anything.
This gem offers a freshly remodeled farmhouse with a modern chef’s kitchen overseeing the lake perfect for bridal parties, showers, rehearsal dinners, and holds up to 40 people. The house can sleep up to 14 people, and has a master suite that’ll make you feel like royalty! The master not only has a marble bathroom equipped with a clawfoot tub, but it’s also the perfect spot to take some of your wedding preparation photos. The room offers an amazing view of the lake and serves as a perfect backdrop. Aside from the grand house, Crispin Barn is where the magic happens. The barn sits up to 170 guests comfortably, with an incredible view of the property. Couples travel from all over to experience Crispin Hill and to get married overlooking the water. Who the hell wouldn’t?
Photos courtesy of Jessica Powell & Megan Dailor Photography
A wedding isn’t complete without fresh flowers. DeLuxe Floral Design by Jessica Powell is an elegant, modern & creative wedding & event floral brand in Bath, NY. Jessica creates magic with her floral arrangements that reflect her couples’ flower vision. With over 18 years of design experience with all kinds of weddings, she knows how to fresh masterpieces. If you’re going for a modern or contemporary vibe, this is the place for you! A huge perk for couples is that DeLuxe Floral Design offers free personalized consultations and customized estimates based on budget requirements!
Photo courtesy of Verve Event Co., Lyndsi Photography, and F.L.X. Table
If you and your love find yourselves in Geneva, NY, you have to check out F.L.X. Table, an upscale dining restaurant that only seats 14 people. Booking is done six months in advance and online, which is perfect timing for you to plan this getaway and save. Owned by husband-and-wife duo Christopher Bates, a master sommelier, and chef and Isabel Bogadtke, you don’t see these credentials every day.
Get this, there is no barrier between the kitchen and guests! It’s all meant to be interactive and conversational. Think of it as your home during the holidays, everyone is chattering over amazing wine while lusting over the food. Each night, a set menu comes out for a five-course meal made with seasonal products. Parties larger than 14 people are booked through The Left Bank. There’s no doubt you’ll fall in love with the foods and wine and the intimate atmosphere. The duo also caters private events and weddings, bringing more love to your special day.
Photos courtesy of Megan Dailor Photography
Ithaca, NY holds the rustic charm of Gratitude & Grace, a 3,000 sq. ft. historic horse barn & Victorian house that dates back to the 19 century. Gratitude & Grace is a stunning venue that makes sure your wedding day is an unforgettable experience. The Victorian House can comfortably sleep a wedding party of 12-14, with three bathrooms and a spacious living room, while the Wedding Barn hosts ceremonies of up to 200 people! They can accommodate weddings of all sizes. G&G is the full package with an on-site catering kitchen, house band, pool & hot tub for house guests, you guys this place is every couple’s dream looking for quaint, rustic feels. You have your choice between an indoor or outdoor ceremony. Imagine having a country view as you exchange vows. Also, picture how sick sparklers would look as your guests see you off into your new life!
Photos courtesy of Jaimie Ellis Photography
Heron Hill Winery in Hammondsport, NY sits on Keuka Lake and is an amazing weekend getaway location and wedding destination. Enjoy a tasting with your love and marvel at the views of the Tasting Hall, the views of the terrace and enjoy the tranquility of Heron Hill. Learn about the winery’s history growing cold-climate vinifera grapes, and how they make their delicious Riesling, Chardonnay and others! Afterward, grab a bite at Blue Heron Café, the on-site café. We hear their brunch is amazing! Sip on some wine and eat some yummy food as you and your fiance look out at the lake as you go over wedding details.
Heron Hill is committed to giving couples their dream wedding and listens to your vision and desires when they meet with people. The staff is eager to help you go through every detail so nothing gets overlooked. Hold your ceremony outside, overlooking the lake and enjoy their Genesis Event tent as you dance the night away with your guests with estate vineyards as your backdrop. The winery also offers various beverage packages for your reception that expertly pair with the food. The best part? Boking Heron Hill includes full access to their staff, Tasting Hall & Gift Shop until 8PM, rentals, tent heaters, a dance floor, handcrafted oak bar, air-conditioned/heated restroom trailer with handicap accessible winery restrooms, complimentary “welcome wine tasting” for each wedding guest, bistro lighting and use of their conference room. This place ensures a stress-free wedding day because they have it covered!
Photos courtesy of Stacy K Floral & Mary Dougherty Photography
This next must-see spot is called “America’s best-kept secret,” according to Country Living. Envision a storybook village along Cayuga Lake, filled with restored historic estates turned inns. Five inns, a farm-to-table restaurant, a chill pub, a village market, a demonstration kitchen, a wellness & activities center, and upcoming full-service spa ALL make up this little Finger Lakes village. There’s no way you and your person won’t have something to do. The Inns offer multiple locations deemed picturesque for a mini-moon getaway at the Finger Lakes. Yes, this is the place you go to if you want to gaze out at the lakefront view with a glass of wine and enjoy the hues of the sunset, it’s that Hallmark movie.
Photo courtesy Inns of Aurora
The hardest part of planning this weekend getaway is choosing which inn to stay in. E.B Morgan House gives off Hampton’s vibes and was once the home of Colonel Edwin Barber Morgan, co-founder of The New York Times. Morgan House has seven rooms, each with marble baths and luxurious living spaces, and modern art on the walls. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine with the comforts of the spacious porches, a library filled with a variety of literature, a parlor to play games, dining room and pantry.
Photos courtesy Inns of Aurora
Constructed in 1909 and restored in 2016, Wallcourt Hall gives off a fun, funky vibe with its orange and grey accents! The Hall originally was a prep school for girls and then decades later a studio for MacKenzie-Childs. Its 16 guestrooms offer designer details, with custom furniture, Italian fabrics, and exceptional modern art make this spot is rich with spirit. The Zabriskie House was built in 1904 but recently restored last year. This house gives off southern charm with its columned porch and Gingko trees and is calm with hints of the blue color interior. There are 11 guestrooms, a double parlor with fireplaces, and a 22-person wood-paneled dining room available for private events, like a rehearsal dinner. Did we mention it also has a three-story grand staircase?
Photo courtesy Inns of Aurora
If the Morgan house is the Hamptons, then Aurora Inn is Montauk. Built with 11 rooms each with dark wood and hints of red and gold, this homely place gives grandiose views of the water. Aurora Inn is the perfect spot for you and bae to stay because it also is home to 1833 Kitchen & Bar, the farm-to-table restaurant we previously told you about. If you don’t feel like walking far for your meal, this place is perfect. This is also the hub for booking your excursions!
Photo courtesy Inns of Aurora
Rowland House is the last spot on the Inns of Aurora list, but not the least! Picture a scene out of a movie. The house is encompassed by ancient trees, a historic Grecian temple and a two-story boathouse. With ten chic guestrooms, a vibrant color scheme, stunning views, and luxurious linens, this place will add a little spark to your life. The third floor is made up of four guestrooms and a private lounge, decorated with Mackenzie-Childs designs. Most weddings here take place on the shores of the Inn with a cocktail hour in the Lakeside room and patio, and a dinner reception under a tent on the North Patio.
There’s a lot of choices with this one, we know! While you and your love explore your options, you could enjoy a day out fishing, painting classes, archery, cooking lessons, tarot readings or more to clear your heads. Just like Hallmark, the Inns of Aurora have a little bit of everything for everyone, perfect for a mini-moon at the Finger Lakes.
Photo courtesy of Lisa Fenwick
Imagine setting the tone of your big day by having a live harpist play while your guests arrive. Lisa Fenwick is a harpist located out of Ithaca, New York. She specializes in providing beautiful live music in a variety of genres! Whether it’s your cocktail party or your ceremony, Lisa’s got you covered. With the appropriate notification, she’s willing to learn new songs to make your day even more memorable. She travels to your destination to play, whether it’s an outdoor or indoor venue. Lisa comes equipped with her personal amplification, ensuring all can hear her harmony. Her typical ceremony package includes prelude music, wedding party processional, bride’s or your beloved’s processional and recessional.
Lisa loves getting to know the couples she works with and asks a ton of questions to get to know them and the vibe of their wedding! After that, she sends a written letter of confirmation of her understanding of the details including musical cues. Including live music at your wedding adds a romantic effect and can have you feeling like a protagonist of your love story.
Photos courtesy of Megan Dailor Photography & Leo Timoshuk Photography
The Lodge at Welch Allyn in Skaneateles, NY is an Adirondack-style venue able to accommodate groups up to 400 people. This is the perfect spot for couples that want to show off their love to everyone they know and their mother! Did you see all the extraordinary natural light from the windows? It’s a modern feel but the wood beams give it a warm feel. At The Lodge, couples get an event coordinator that works with them to plan their special day, exclusive use of the 25,000 sq. ft. facility during the event and exquisite food and a customized menu from their award-winning chef, all making for an unforgettable wedding! Having a planner by your side makes your life a million times easier; the coordinator takes some of the party planning stress and ensures little details don’t fall through the cracks.
The stunning views draw couples in from all over. We don’t blame them! The Lodge at Welch Allyn wants to give couples the best experience. To do that, the establishment offers multiple enhancement options to amp up your party! From decor rentals, lighting packages, a vintage photo booth or fireworks, The Lodge adds an extra flair to their events! Once everything is done and you’re enjoying kissing under fireworks, enjoy a drink with your coordinator because they’ve earned it! Get excited, and grab your boo and stay in one of the hotels nearby while you visit this spot because we guarantee you’re going to be partying there with your loved ones when you book your wedding there!
Photos courtesy of Megan Dailor Photography
Are these views even real rn?! Mirbeau Inn and Spa in Skaneateles, NY is a beautiful relaxation destination. This place is perfect for a quiet weekend but still close to shopping and dining when you want to get out. The property’s gardens look like something out of a Claude Monet painting! Even better, they have an incredible award-winning 14,000 square foot spa, equipt with every spa treatment in the books! Mirbeau offers luxurious couples’ spa services, so you and your love can each enjoy a little bit of paradise.
Designed to evoke the warmth and comfort of a private French wine country estate, Mirbeau is surrounded by beautiful gardens and cottages, adding to the charm. The gardens are the ultimate drop backdrop for your engagement & wedding photos! The grounds are the place to say “I do.” The aqua terrace is a large hot spa pool with massage jets, waterfalls, an oversized fireplace and a service bar for light bites and beverages. It’s beautiful in the summer and cozy in the winter. During the hotter months, enjoy dining al fresco! The Travel Team works as a leisure travel partner, and can give you all the inside scoop on this amazing spot!
Photos courtesy of Megan Dailor Photography
Tucked away in Canandaigua is Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, one of America’s few remaining Victorian estates. If you’ve been dreaming of a traditional, romantic wedding, this place is out of a fairytale. Built by Frederick and Mary Thompson as a summer home in the late 1800s, A SUMMER HOUSE, Sonnenberg features a 40-room mansion and nine luscious historic gardens. This 50-acre estate is filled with period architecture, statues, floral displays, fountains and an antique greenhouse complex, all perfect for a picturesque wedding day.
Sonnenberg offers wedding ceremonies to accommodate intimate gatherings with as few as a dozen guests or up to several hundred to witness you taking your vows. Couples can plan a small ceremony for 60 guests or less in the gardens, pending approval. The grounds are also perfect for a party! For indoor events, the historic Carriage House can seat 70 people. For outdoor shindigs, the main reception site can accommodate 250 or more. You guys will gawk over the view. Repeatedly.
Photos courtesy of Cassi V. Photography, Alyssa Flood Photography & Larkin & Trevor Photography
Wren’s Roost Barn is nestled on a hilltop in the Finger Lakes in Naples, NY. This custom-built timber frame wedding barn rests on 23 acres of land, one-acre pond and showcases the beautiful views of the Finger lakes region, all while maintaining an intimate feel. Inspired by Joanna Gaines, the barn was upgraded with repurposed beams from local barns and has whitewashed shiplap inside and out. With its high ceiling, this barn fives you all the feels. With an opportunity to start from scratch in 2017, owners Renea and Steve wanted to marry old elements with a new modern style. They repurposed three old barns destined for demolishment and took the beams to use throughout Wrens’ Roost.
The barn is equipped with modern light fixtures, two modern bathrooms, a kitchen, in-floor heat and a Bluetooth sound system. Wren’s Roost is perfect for couples striving to create an at-home vibe and anyone that wants to make the space their own! The barn isn’t a full-service venue, you can bring in items for your special day. That means food vendors of your choice, specialty bars, ice cream, sparklers, Chinese lanterns, and other fun things you’ve envisioned. Just as spectacular as the inside, the outside is equally impressive. The barn opens to the outside and gets so much natural light with views from all the windows to the spectacular Finger Lakes. You and your guests will have a magical time.
There is no shortage of beautiful venues in the Finger Lakes. With lakefront views and greenery, you can’t go wrong. Wedding planning can be a lot for anyone, especially if you’re planning it during a pandemic without a coordinator (but you should totally get one because they truly take the burden off you, just sayin’. We know some fabulous wedding coordinators to get you started!) That’s why a mini-moon at the Finger Lakes is a perfect getaway. You get alone time & still check things off your wedding list. These must-see vendors bring their A-game to every event and are determined to make your wedding festivities unique to you. As we enter phase II, some of these locations are opening up, while many are still scheduling virtual meetings with couples, feel free to reach out to them! They’re excited to get to know you & start planning!
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