Celebrating Love in the Garden State: A Guide to Weddings in New Jersey

Weddings in New Jersey: A Closer Look at Charm and Diversity

Positive Things In New Jersey

New Jersey offers a wide array of options for couples planning their wedding, making it a versatile destination for celebrations. From the bustling cities to the serene countryside, the state has something for everyone, ensuring that your wedding day is a true reflection of your unique style and love story. Here’s a deeper look at what makes weddings in New Jersey special, including unique venues, local traditions, and activities to enhance your experience.

Unique Wedding Venues

1. Coastal Elegance
New Jersey’s coastline provides stunning backdrops for beach weddings. Venues like The Watermark in Asbury Park offer breathtaking ocean views, while Bonnet Island Estate in Manahawkin combines coastal charm with luxurious amenities.

• The Watermark: A chic venue featuring both indoor and outdoor spaces with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Website: The Watermark

• Bonnet Island Estate: A beautiful estate with waterfront views, perfect for a romantic beachside ceremony.

  • Website: Bonnet Island Estate

2. Historic Charm
For couples who appreciate history, New Jersey has a variety of historic venues, including The Ashford Estate and Nassau Inn. These venues provide a classic backdrop that adds an elegant touch to any wedding.

• The Ashford Estate: Nestled in the countryside, this estate features beautiful gardens and luxurious indoor spaces.

  • Website: The Ashford Estate

• Nassau Inn: Located in Princeton, this historic venue offers a charming atmosphere and is ideal for a classic wedding.

  • Website: Nassau Inn

3. Rustic and Outdoor Venues
For couples dreaming of a rustic wedding, New Jersey offers numerous farms and barns that provide a cozy and charming atmosphere.

• The Barn at Perona Farms: A rustic barn venue with beautiful outdoor spaces for ceremonies, set in a picturesque farm environment.

  • Website: Perona Farms

• Skylands Manor: Located in Ringwood State Park, this venue combines natural beauty with stunning gardens, perfect for outdoor weddings.

  • Website: Skylands Manor

Local Traditions and Cultural Touches

1. New Jersey Cuisine
Incorporating local flavors into your wedding menu can enhance the dining experience. New Jersey is known for its diverse culinary scene, including:

• Italian Cuisine: Many couples choose to feature traditional Italian dishes, reflecting the state’s rich Italian heritage.

• Farm-to-Table Options: Many caterers focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, offering fresh and delicious menus.

2. Entertainment and Music
New Jersey’s vibrant music scene allows couples to enhance their celebrations with live music. Hiring local bands or DJs can add an authentic touch to your wedding.

• Live Bands: Consider featuring local jazz, rock, or pop bands that can entertain guests throughout the evening.

• DJ Services: Many DJs in New Jersey specialize in weddings and can tailor the music to fit your tastes and style.

Activities to Enjoy While in New Jersey

1. Explore the Jersey Shore
Spend a day enjoying the sun and sand at the Jersey Shore. Visit iconic boardwalks, go to amusement parks, or relax on the beach. Popular spots include Cape May, Point Pleasant, and Wildwood.

• Website: Visit Jersey Shore

2. Visit New Jersey Wineries
Explore the state’s growing wine country by visiting local wineries. Many offer tastings, tours, and beautiful views, making for a perfect day trip.

• Website: New Jersey Wine

3. Discover Historic Towns
Visit charming historic towns like Princeton, Lambertville, and Morristown to enjoy shops, art galleries, and rich history.

• Website: Visit Princeton

4. Scenic Parks and Nature
Take advantage of New Jersey’s beautiful parks for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor activities. Consider visiting Liberty State Park for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

• Website: Liberty State Park

Weddings in New Jersey offer a unique blend of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture that can make your special day truly unforgettable. With diverse venues and countless activities to enjoy, the Garden State provides the perfect setting for couples to celebrate their love. Whether you choose a luxurious ballroom, a charming barn, or a picturesque beach, New Jersey invites you to create cherished memories on your wedding day. Embrace the charm and character of this beautiful state, and let it serve as the perfect backdrop for your love story.

Fun Things to Do in New Jersey While You’re Here for a Wedding

Sipping Through the Garden State: A Journey into New Jersey’s Wine Country

New Jersey is a state rich in diversity, offering a multitude of activities and attractions that can enhance your wedding experience. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or delicious dining options, there’s something for everyone. Here are some fun things to do while you’re in the Garden State:

1. Explore the Jersey Shore

• Description: Enjoy a day at the beach, visit iconic boardwalks, or engage in water sports at the Jersey Shore. Each town has its unique charm, from the historic Victorian homes of Cape May to the lively atmosphere of Wildwood.
• Popular Spots:
  • Cape May: Known for its beautiful beaches and Victorian architecture.
  • Point Pleasant: Features a family-friendly boardwalk with amusement rides and games.
  • Asbury Park: Offers a vibrant music scene, art galleries, and trendy restaurants.
• Website: Visit Jersey Shore

2. Visit New Jersey Wineries

• Description: Experience the local wine scene by visiting New Jersey’s vineyards and wineries. Many offer tastings, tours, and beautiful views, perfect for a relaxing day out.
• Popular Wineries:
  • Cape May Winery: Known for its charming atmosphere and delicious wines.
  • Unionville Vineyards: Offers tastings in a beautiful countryside setting.
• Website: New Jersey Wine

3. Discover Historic Towns

• Description: New Jersey is home to charming historic towns rich in culture and history. Explore quaint shops, art galleries, and unique eateries.
• Popular Towns:
  • Princeton: Visit Princeton University and explore its beautiful campus, museums, and boutiques.
  • Lambertville: Known for its arts scene, this town offers galleries and antique shops along the Delaware River.
  • Morristown: Learn about the Revolutionary War at the Morristown National Historical Park.
• Website: Visit Princeton

4. Enjoy Outdoor Activities

• Parks and Trails: New Jersey has numerous parks offering hiking, biking, and picnicking. Consider visiting:
  • Liberty State Park: Offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
  • The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: Perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
• Website: Liberty State Park

5. Experience Local Culture and Arts

• Description: Enjoy local art and cultural events throughout the state. Check for any festivals, gallery openings, or performances happening during your visit.
• Popular Venues:
  • The Paper Mill Playhouse: A renowned regional theater in Millburn, offering a variety of performances.
  • Montclair Art Museum: Features American and Native American art exhibitions.
• Website: Paper Mill Playhouse

6. Food Tours and Culinary Experiences

• Description: Explore New Jersey’s diverse culinary scene through food tours or cooking classes. Taste local specialties like Italian subs, diners, and fresh seafood.
• Popular Food Tours:
  • Newark Food Tours: Discover the diverse food culture in Newark with a guided tour.
  • Asbury Park Food Tours: Sample the culinary offerings of this trendy beach town.
• Website: Asbury Park Food Tours

7. Amusement Parks and Attractions

• Description: For a fun day out, visit one of New Jersey’s amusement parks or attractions.
• Popular Parks:
  • Six Flags Great Adventure: Home to thrilling rides and entertainment options.
  • Jenkinson’s Boardwalk: Offers rides, games, and an aquarium in Point Pleasant.
• Website: Six Flags Great Adventure

While you’re in New Jersey for a wedding, take the opportunity to explore the state’s rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant activities. From enjoying the beautiful Jersey Shore and local wineries to discovering charming historic towns and indulging in delicious cuisine, there’s plenty to see and do. Embrace the diversity of the Garden State and create lasting memories during your stay!

Best Wedding Planners in New Jersey

Beach side-New Jersey Weddings

Choosing the right wedding planner can significantly enhance your wedding planning experience, ensuring that your special day is seamless and stress-free. New Jersey has a diverse array of talented wedding planners who specialize in various styles and preferences. Here are some of the best wedding planners in New Jersey:

**1. Wedding by the Shore

• Description: Specializing in beach weddings along the Jersey Shore, Wedding by the Shore offers full-service planning and coordination. They focus on creating personalized experiences that capture the essence of your love story.
• Website: Wedding by the Shore

**2. A Garden Party

• Description: A Garden Party provides elegant wedding planning services, emphasizing detailed planning and exquisite design. They work closely with couples to ensure their vision comes to life.
• Website: A Garden Party

**3. Just Be Events

• Description: Just Be Events focuses on creating unique and memorable weddings. They offer a variety of planning packages, from day-of coordination to full-service planning, tailored to meet each couple’s needs.
• Website: Just Be Events

**4. Megan James Events

• Description: Megan James Events specializes in coordinating elegant and stylish weddings. They provide personalized service and attention to detail, ensuring a smooth planning process and a memorable wedding day.
• Website: Megan James Events

**5. True Event

• Description: True Event is known for its creative approach and personalized service. They handle every aspect of wedding planning, from venue selection to design and coordination, ensuring a stress-free experience for couples.
• Website: True Event

**6. Bellevue Wedding Planners

• Description: Bellevue Wedding Planners focuses on providing customized planning services for couples. They are known for their attention to detail and ability to bring clients’ visions to life in a stress-free manner.
• Website: Bellevue Wedding Planners

**7. Creative Events by Taryn

• Description: Creative Events by Taryn specializes in crafting personalized weddings with a unique touch. They offer comprehensive planning services and focus on creating a memorable experience for couples and their guests.
• Website: Creative Events by Taryn

**8. Knot Just Weddings

• Description: Knot Just Weddings provides a range of planning services, including destination weddings and local events. They focus on making each wedding unique and tailored to the couple’s style.
• Website: Knot Just Weddings

**9. Dazzling Affairs

• Description: Dazzling Affairs offers full-service wedding planning and event coordination. They are known for their creativity and commitment to making each wedding a stunning reflection of the couple’s personality.
• Website: Dazzling Affairs

**10. Serendipity Wedding Planning

• Description: Serendipity Wedding Planning specializes in helping couples navigate the wedding planning process with ease. They offer a variety of packages to fit different needs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Website: Serendipity Wedding Planning

Selecting the right wedding planner in New Jersey can greatly enhance your wedding planning journey, ensuring that your special day is everything you’ve envisioned. The top wedding planners in the state offer a variety of services tailored to your needs, from full-service planning to day-of coordination. By partnering with a skilled planner, you can relax and enjoy the journey leading up to your wedding day, knowing that every detail is in capable hands.

Positive Things In New Jersey

Choosing the right wedding planner can make all the difference in ensuring your wedding day is seamless and memorable. New Jersey has a wealth of talented wedding planners who specialize in various styles and preferences. Here are some of the top wedding planners in New Jersey:

**1. Wedding by the Shore

• Description: Specializing in beach weddings along the Jersey Shore, Wedding by the Shore offers full-service planning and coordination. They focus on creating personalized experiences that capture the essence of your love story.
• Website: Wedding by the Shore

**2. A Garden Party

• Description: A Garden Party provides elegant wedding planning services, emphasizing detailed planning and exquisite design. They work closely with couples to ensure their vision comes to life.
• Website: A Garden Party

**3. Just Be Events

• Description: Just Be Events focuses on creating unique and memorable weddings. They offer a variety of planning packages, from day-of coordination to full-service planning, tailored to meet each couple’s needs.
• Website: Just Be Events

**4. Megan James Events

• Description: Megan James Events specializes in coordinating elegant and stylish weddings. They provide personalized service and attention to detail, ensuring a smooth planning process and a memorable wedding day.
• Website: Megan James Events

**5. True Event

• Description: True Event is known for its creative approach and personalized service. They handle every aspect of wedding planning, from venue selection to design and coordination, ensuring a stress-free experience for couples.
• Website: True Event

**6. Bellevue Wedding Planners

• Description: Bellevue Wedding Planners focuses on providing customized planning services for couples. They are known for their attention to detail and ability to bring clients’ visions to life in a stress-free manner.
• Website: Bellevue Wedding Planners

**7. Creative Events by Taryn

• Description: Creative Events by Taryn specializes in crafting personalized weddings with a unique touch. They offer comprehensive planning services and focus on creating a memorable experience for couples and their guests.
• Website: Creative Events by Taryn

**8. Knot Just Weddings

• Description: Knot Just Weddings provides a range of planning services, including destination weddings and local events. They focus on making each wedding unique and tailored to the couple’s style.
• Website: Knot Just Weddings

**9. Dazzling Affairs

• Description: Dazzling Affairs offers full-service wedding planning and event coordination. They are known for their creativity and commitment to making each wedding a stunning reflection of the couple’s personality.
• Website: Dazzling Affairs

**10. Serendipity Wedding Planning

• Description: Serendipity Wedding Planning specializes in helping couples navigate the wedding planning process with ease. They offer a variety of packages to fit different needs, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Website: Serendipity Wedding Planning

Selecting the right wedding planner in New Jersey can greatly enhance your wedding planning journey, ensuring that your special day is everything you’ve envisioned. The top wedding planners in the state offer a variety of services tailored to your needs, from full-service planning to day-of coordination. By partnering with a skilled planner, you can relax and enjoy the journey leading up to your wedding day, knowing that every detail is in capable hands.

Top Wedding Caterers in New Jersey

Sipping Through the Garden State: A Journey into New Jersey’s Wine Country

Selecting the right caterer is essential for creating a memorable dining experience at your wedding. New Jersey is home to a diverse range of talented caterers known for their delicious food, exceptional service, and creativity. Here are some of the best wedding caterers in New Jersey:

**1. Catering by Gordon Ramsay

• Description: Offering luxurious catering options designed by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, this caterer provides an upscale dining experience perfect for weddings.
• Website: Catering by Gordon Ramsay

**2. The Olde Mill Inn

• Description: Known for its exceptional service and beautiful venue, The Olde Mill Inn offers a variety of customizable catering packages that feature delicious cuisine made with fresh ingredients.
• Website: The Olde Mill Inn

**3. Blue Plate

• Description: Blue Plate Catering specializes in gourmet food with a creative twist. They offer a range of menu options, from elegant plated dinners to casual buffets, tailored to meet each couple’s preferences.
• Website: Blue Plate Catering

**4. The Brownstone

• Description: This well-known catering venue specializes in upscale events, providing a wide selection of menu options that focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation.
• Website: The Brownstone

**5. A Catered Affair

• Description: A Catered Affair provides high-quality catering services with a focus on customization. They work with couples to create menus that reflect their personal tastes and wedding themes.
• Website: A Catered Affair

**6. Garlic Rose

• Description: Garlic Rose offers unique and flavorful catering options with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They provide various menu styles, including plated and buffet options.
• Website: Garlic Rose

**7. Primo’s Italian Catering

• Description: Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, Primo’s Italian Catering provides delicious food options perfect for couples who want to incorporate traditional Italian flavors into their wedding menus.
• Website: Primo’s Italian Catering

**8. Jersey Mike’s Catering

• Description: For a casual and fun vibe, Jersey Mike’s offers catering options featuring their famous subs and sandwiches, ideal for relaxed wedding receptions or rehearsal dinners.
• Website: Jersey Mike’s Catering

**9. Samantha’s Catering

• Description: Samantha’s Catering specializes in creating customized menus for weddings, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative presentation.
• Website: Samantha’s Catering

**10. Tastefully Yours Catering

• Description: Tastefully Yours offers a variety of catering options and packages for weddings, emphasizing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to create delicious dishes.
• Website: Tastefully Yours Catering

Choosing the right caterer in New Jersey is vital for ensuring a delightful dining experience at your wedding. The top caterers in the state offer a range of delicious menu options, excellent service, and the ability to create a customized experience that reflects your tastes and style. By partnering with one of these talented catering professionals, you can create a memorable culinary experience that your guests will cherish long after your celebration.

Best Wedding Florists in New Jersey

Beach side-New Jersey Weddings

Choosing the right florist is essential for creating stunning floral arrangements that enhance your wedding day. New Jersey is home to many talented florists who specialize in crafting beautiful bouquets, centerpieces, and floral decor tailored to your vision. Here are some of the best wedding florists in New Jersey:

**1. Floral Essence

• Description: Floral Essence offers personalized floral design services, focusing on creating unique arrangements for weddings. They work closely with couples to ensure their floral vision comes to life.
• Website: Floral Essence

**2. Ridgewood Florist

• Description: Located in Ridgewood, NJ, this florist is known for its beautiful and elegant arrangements. They provide a range of floral services for weddings, with a focus on creativity and quality.
• Website: Ridgewood Florist

**3. Morris County Flower Shop

• Description: Morris County Flower Shop specializes in custom floral designs for weddings and events. Their experienced team is dedicated to creating stunning arrangements that reflect the couple’s style.
• Website: Morris County Flower Shop

**4. Fleur de Lis

• Description: Fleur de Lis is known for its sophisticated floral arrangements and exceptional customer service. They offer a wide variety of flowers and designs to suit any wedding theme.
• Website: Fleur de Lis

**5. The Flower Shop

• Description: This florist specializes in creating custom floral arrangements for weddings, offering a range of services from bouquets to reception decor. They focus on using fresh, high-quality flowers.
• Website: The Flower Shop

**6. Diana’s Florist

• Description: Diana’s Florist provides beautiful floral arrangements tailored to each couple’s preferences. They are known for their attention to detail and ability to create stunning wedding flowers.
• Website: Diana’s Florist

**7. Blooming Designs

• Description: Blooming Designs focuses on creating beautiful, artistic floral arrangements for weddings. They work closely with couples to ensure their vision is realized in every detail.
• Website: Blooming Designs

**8. Megan’s Flower Shop

• Description: Megan’s Flower Shop specializes in unique and personalized floral designs for weddings. They offer a variety of options, ensuring each couple gets the perfect arrangements.
• Website: Megan’s Flower Shop

**9. Petal Pushers

• Description: Petal Pushers is known for its vibrant floral designs and attention to detail. They offer comprehensive floral services for weddings, focusing on creating beautiful arrangements.
• Website: Petal Pushers

**10. Fleurish

• Description: Fleurish provides creative floral design services tailored to each couple’s style. They specialize in both classic and modern arrangements, ensuring a perfect fit for any wedding theme.
• Website: Fleurish

Choosing the right florist in New Jersey is essential for achieving the perfect floral look for your wedding. These top florists offer a range of styles and services to suit your vision, ensuring that your flowers are not only beautiful but also a meaningful part of your celebration. By working with one of these talented professionals, you can create a floral experience that perfectly complements your wedding and leaves a lasting impression on you and your guests.