Set on 90 acres of woodlands and gardens, this performing arts center in Northern Westchester is a dreamy spot for a summer wedding. “Caramoor offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor venue that combines the natural beauty of our lush gardens [with] timeless structures,” says special events assistant Kristina Jahaly. “We have all the elements for a successful event — an idyllic location, delicious food, and attentive service — combined to conjure a magical atmosphere.”
The Sunken Garden, a beautifully landscaped three-tier formal garden surrounded by tall trees, is the most popular ceremony location. Tapestry Hedge, a sloping lawn with Grecian-style statues and a rose-covered gazebo, is a top spot for cocktails, as is the Brunelleschi-inspired Italian Pavilion, adjacent to the butterfly garden. The Venetian Theater, with its pink marble columns, arches, and elegant tent, is the favored reception site. In between, there are charming spots to steal a moment — iron gates, sunlit gardens, and cedar-tree-lined paths — perfect for stunning photo ops.
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The focus on nature extends to the menu as well. NYC-based catering company Great Performances partners with the venue to create seasonal menus of contemporary farm-sourced dishes — Middle Eastern-spiced rack of lamb, mini beet burgers with goat cheese, and colorful seasonal salads, for example — with much of the produce coming from Kinderhook’s Katchkie Farm.
The Details: Pricing and capacity vary by venue. Use of the Italian Pavilion, reception tent, and gardens runs $7,500, with space for 250 guests. The Venetian Theater can accommodate up to 800 for dinner and carries a rental fee of $18,000. Expect catering and rentals to cost about $325 per guest.
