7 minute read
A picture-perfect wedding in Essex
With scenic river views, historic venues, and thoughtful local touches, Essex creates the ideal setting for an unforgettable celebration
By Jennifer Carmichael
A wedding day is among the most significant moments in life, and choosing the perfect location sets the stage for all the memories that will follow. While destination weddings outside Connecticut may seem appealing, you don't have to go far. With its sweeping views of the Connecticut River, boutiques, restaurants, parks, and historic seafaring character, Essex offers a picturesque setting with plenty of options for that special day.
Magda and Josh Rayner pulled off their dream Essex wedding in just a week and a half, with everything falling perfectly into place. Though they envisioned exchanging vows by the water, they weren't looking for a beach. Instead, the couple, who had shared many walks and coffee dates in Essex—starting with their first date at Essex Coffee & Tea during the pandemic—chose Main Street Park, nestled on Middle Cove along the Connecticut River, as the backdrop for their ceremony on June 29, 2024. Afterward, they strolled down the street for an intimate dinner celebration at The Griswold Inn (also known as “The Gris”).
"We wanted a place that connected our first date with family members who aren't with us anymore," says Magda, who is originally from Poland but lived in South Windsor when she met Josh, who is from Ivoryton. "Josh's late grandfather did some carpentry work at the Family Cottage at The Gris, where I stayed the night before the wedding and where we stayed after. The town of Essex and The Gris felt like the perfect location to honor both."
The Gris has hosted small weddings, rehearsal dinners, post-wedding brunches, and bridal showers for over two centuries. The couple worked with Claudia Odekerken, private events manager at The Gris, who ensured everything was seamless. 24 guests enjoyed dinner in the private steamboat dining room. And while they were offered a selection of entrées, everyone opted for the filet mignon, which Magda remembers as the "best meal ever."
"We have hosted countless celebrations over these many years and feel so fortunate to help create memorable events to mark momentous occasions. And by choosing The Gris for a wedding celebration, a couple is making their history a part of ours. That's gratifying," says Joan Paul, co-owner of The Gris.
Out-of-state guests had a wonderful stay at The Gris, ideally situated for the day's celebration and the rehearsal dinner the night before at Noah's at 63 Main, a little further down the street. Though the restaurant offers a private room, Magda opted for a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. She chose to seat everyone family-style at a long table by the windows in the dining room. Here, Magda says they enjoyed beautiful water views and delicious food.
Noah's can also host larger events, whether inside or outside, on its beautiful waterside lawn. Right next door, the Connecticut River Museum offers many options, from intimate celebrations to parties of up to 150 guests, right on the river. The River Front Lawn provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The North Deck and Boathouse are connected spaces most often used together for the ceremony and cocktail hour, and the Upper Lawn at the Lay House offers river views but is set back a bit for more privacy. In addition, you can also rent the entire campus.
“This is where my passion lies. We really work hard to create a wonderful experience from start to finish for our couples and their guests. It's breathtaking here on the river, and you get that quintessential New England feeling," shares Tiffany Zwart, membership and special events manager at the Connecticut River Museum. Zwart brings 28 years of experience in the wedding industry to the museum. She has been with the Connecticut River Museum for nearly a year.
The museum’s dramatic river views make it an ideal location for spring, summer, or fall weddings. While the boathouse accommodates up to 30 guests and offers a charming indoor option, most larger events are hosted under elegant tents. Zwart collaborates with a selection of approved caterers and trusted wedding vendors, both local and any favorites the couple may prefer. Additionally, Zwart notes that the museum is open to al lowing food trucks on the property.
For a local touch, Magda and Josh had Joy Chocolate Company, based in Essex Village, put together boxes of chocolates as favors. Magda worked with owner and chocolatier Claire Ariyan, who created a custom bass to add to the chocolate mix. Magda says she never fished until she met Josh and caught her first striped bass in Essex at the Connecticut River Museum. The chocolate favors incorporated the couple's love of fishing and Josh's business, CT Fish Nerd, into their special day.
"It's fun for us to do something unique," says Ariyan. "The fish that Magda and Josh wanted is the most unique ask we've received. We've also done chocolate golden frogs and lobsters hand painted in a shiny red edible coloring for others.”
Thoughtful details such as local chocolates are plentiful in Essex. For example, for guests seeking an outfit or accessories for wedding-related events, The RiverLane, a boutique clothing store, is a popular destination on Main Street for women of all ages. There, every day is a cause for celebration, says RiverLane owner Robin Zubretsky.
"There's something for every occasion and everyone," says Zubretsky. "We offer a variety of styles, whether for the rehearsal dinner, the day after brunch, or casual and formal attire for the honeymoon."
Essex offers a wealth of local charm and personalized touches that make any wedding or celebration special. Whether an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Essex’s local businesses and scenic settings provide the perfect backdrop for creating memories with family and friends.
The Griswold Inn is located at 36 Main Street in Essex. To learn more, call 860-767-1776 or visit griswoldinn.com.
Joy Chocolate Co. is located at 5 North Main Street. Call 860-662-4489 or visit joychocolateco.com for more information.
The RiverLane is located at 7 Main Street in Essex. Hours are Monday—Saturday, 10 a.m.— 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m.— 4 p.m. To learn more, call 860-662-4688 or visit theriverlane.com.
