Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum has a fascinating waterfront setting and a combination of historical and natural grandeur. It is sitting elegantly midway between Newport and Providence, Rhode Island. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum has different impeccable venues that can accommodate your dream wedding.
There is a pathway from the Bosquet leading you to the Water Garden. A small stone bridge will help you cross the magnificent ponds to the Rock Gardens. The Blithewold’s Bamboo Grove mesmerizes everyone with its area about the size of a tennis court and fast-growing stalks of bamboo.
You can take pleasure in your perfect marriage ceremony at the North Garden overlooking the lush lawn and the historical Mansion. A magnificent sunset awaits you from the Mansion’s view of the great lawn and the Narragansett Bay. It also has two covered verandas where you can savor the moment of your cocktail hours. They can also set up a tent for you at the Lindon Cove, where you can revel in the great expanse of the great lawn.
This incredible wedding venue in Rhodes Island comes with the following features:
- A one-of-kind wedding venue wholly immersed in nature.
- An enchanting perennial garden covered with thousands of pink blooms and lush green lawns
- Exuberant wedding photographs that become treasured heirlooms – Instagrammable photos
- One wedding a day to personalize your special day that exceeds your expectations
- Bucolic, chic, and historical wedding venue
If you are still searching for your perfect venue be sure to bookmark our List of Wedding Venues in CT!
venue spotlight
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
Address
101 Ferry Road (Rt. 114) Bristol, Rhode Island 02809
phone number
(401) 253-2707
venue type
Beach, Waterfront, Estate, Historic Venue, Tented
Brief History Of Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
It was on June 1, 1914, when one of the most notable celebrations was held at the Blithewold’s enclosed garden. It was Marjorie Van Wickle and George Lyon’s marriage date.
Augustus Van Wickle bought a 72′ steam yacht from the Herreshoff boat building company in Bristol in 1895. Then, he promptly began searching for the most suited property to build a summer home for his family. Bessie Pardee Van Wickle, his wife, and Augustus Van Wickle purchased 70 acres of waterfront land in Bristol. They called it Blithewold, which was an old English term for “Happy Woodland.”
It was in 1883 when their daughter, Marjorie, was born. She inherited her mother’s talent for gardening. The estate was developed into a stunning property through the talents of Bessie VanWickle and Marjorie.
Blithewold Inc manages the Blithewold today. It is a nonprofit organization devoted to keeping the property available to the public, honoring Marjorie’s wishes.
Special Features
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum gives you and your guests a stunning wedding backdrop through the beauty of its venue paired with the majestic views of the Narragansett Bay. Wedding photo opts at the 33-acre state give you treasured heirlooms you can keep.
Wedding Ceremonies and Reception at the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum can accommodate up to 225 guests. The historic Mansion can accommodate 80 guests for a seated reception and 125 for a cocktail reception. The terrace, porches, and the great lawn can entertain a larger group of guests, while dinner and dancing can be hosted at the Century Tent.
Wedding packages at the venue include the exclusive use of the Mansion, terrace, and grounds for a day. The bride’s dressing room and private bridal rest area are also available for you to prepare yourself an hour before your special event. The staff at the Blithewold will coordinate with your deliveries and services. They also have a wedding specialist who is going to assist you throughout the planning processes. The White Century Tent is also included in the package for you to enjoy. You will also have an hour of photo opportunities on the grounds before your wedding event.
Blackstone Caterers is one of the exclusive catering partners of the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum. It is recognized as the “Best Catering Company” by RI Monthly and “Best Caterer” by Newport Life.
Pricing, Packages, and Potential Fees
The five-hour reception period at the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum is between 5 pm – 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 4 pm – 10 pm on Sundays through Thursdays. You can also opt to extend your time by a half-hour for a cost of $995. Six hours is the maximum available hour at the Blithewold.
May to October Wedding packages vary from $7995 on Fridays and $9995 on Saturdays and Holiday Sundays. $5995 for Special Non-holidays Sundays and Weekdays, and $12995 for Saturdays and Holiday Sundays from June to September. A 30-minute wedding ceremony at the North Garden costs $1500.
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum has a requisite charge of $395 for a security guard along with a $1000 security deposit. According to their site, there is no sales tax nor service charge on any fees associated with the Blithewold fees. Check out their wedding packages to know more.
Ready to get that rustic yet historic and chic wedding of yours?
