Coastal Connecticut Weddings: Top Waterfront Venues for a Classic New England Celebration

When couples think of New England coastal charm, Connecticut might not always be the first location that comes to mind—but it absolutely should be. With its historic seaside towns, elegant waterfront estates, and peaceful beach venues, coastal Connecticut offers the perfect mix of timeless beauty and intimate romance.

While I haven’t photographed a wedding at these exact venues (yet!), I know the area well and approach each new location with excitement, fresh creativity, and total preparation. Before every wedding, I scout the venue in advance, learn the light, and uncover those small but meaningful spots that make your photos uniquely yours.

Top Waterfront Wedding Venues in Coastal Connecticut

Eolia Mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park – Waterford, CT

This is one of Connecticut’s most iconic wedding venues—and for good reason. Eolia Mansion offers elegant stone architecture, sweeping views of Long Island Sound, and beautifully maintained gardens. It’s the kind of place that feels grand but not overwhelming, with a calm, coastal spirit.

• Indoor & outdoor ceremony options

• Grand lawn overlooking the sea

• Perfect for sunset ceremonies and editorial-style portraits

Mystic Seaport Museum & Latitude 41 – Mystic, CT

Mystic combines maritime charm with history and gorgeous waterfront views. Latitude 41 offers a chic indoor reception space, while the Seaport grounds are full of vintage boats, cobblestone paths, and harbor views that feel straight out of a novel.

• Great for couples who love nautical vibes

• Romantic, walkable photo locations nearby

• Classic New England atmosphere

Saltwater Farm Vineyard – Stonington, CT

This venue is where vineyard elegance meets the sea. Located on a repurposed WWII-era airplane hangar, Saltwater Farm Vineyard is tucked between vines and salt marshes, just minutes from the coast. It’s a stunning mix of modern and organic.

• Industrial-meets-coastal vibe

• Wine-country feel near the water

• Nearby marshes and open skies for sunset shots

Saybrook Point Resort & Marina – Old Saybrook, CT

For couples looking for an upscale, coastal resort experience, Saybrook Point offers a full-service setting with water views, dockside portrait locations, and classic New England architecture.

• On-site lodging for guests

• Waterfront dining and cocktail hour spaces

• Beautiful lighthouse-style backdrop for portraits

Photo Highlights & Inspiration

Coastal Connecticut offers light and scenery that’s so naturally photogenic. Here are just a few favorite types of shots I look forward to capturing:

• Veils caught in the breeze along the shoreline

• Golden hour couple portraits among tall seagrass

• Candid cocktail hour moments with a view of the harbor

• Classic editorial-style portraits in the gardens of Eolia Mansion

• Romantic dockside portraits in Mystic or Old Saybrook

Even though I haven’t photographed at all of these venues (yet!), I always arrive ready—with thoughtful preparation, timeline support, and fresh perspective. I treat every couple’s story with the care and creativity it deserves.

Tips for Planning a Coastal CT Wedding

• Time the ceremony around golden hour. The light over Long Island Sound is absolutely stunning as the sun dips low.

• Have a rain plan. Connecticut weather can be unpredictable—venues like Eolia or Latitude 41 offer beautiful indoor options too.

• Make the most of the scenery. Plan extra time in your timeline for portraits by the water, in the gardens, or along charming downtown streets (especially in Mystic or Stonington).

Thinking About a Coastal Connecticut Wedding?

If you're planning a wedding along Connecticut’s beautiful shoreline, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. I may be new to these specific venues, but that just means I arrive with fresh ideas and deep attention to your unique day. I always scout in advance, collaborate with your vendor team, and focus on creating light-filled, authentic images that reflect the heart of your celebration.

👉 Click here to connect with me and learn more about wedding packages and availability.