Setting the Scene
The Boston Opera House
539 Washington St., Boston, 617-259-3400, bostonoperahouse.com
Photographs by Sarah Bastille
“Few couples are aware that this landmark hosts weddings. I love the look on my clients’ faces when I tell them they could share their first dance on the Opera House stage! The grand lobby glitters with gold, and the theater itself is the perfect setting for a luxe affair.”—Kori Carter, Kori Elizabeth Events, 617-945-5159, korielizabethevents.com
The Ritz-Carlton Boston Common
Avery St., Boston, 617-574-7100, ritzcarlton.com
Photograph by Adeline & Grace
“The new ballroom’s great views, exquisite chandeliers, and neutral palette can go with any couple’s décor. The staff could not be more accommodating, which makes planning and executing a wedding here that much more enjoyable. Even better, the chefs are some of the best in the city.”—Linnea Tangorra, Tangorra Wedding Planning, 978-809-0275, linneatangorra.com
The Fairmont Copley Plaza
138 st. James Ave., Boston, 617-267-5300, fairmont.com
Photograph by Person + Killian
“Who doesn’t like being greeted by a handsome red-coated doorman outside our own little Versailles? I love that the hotel has many different venue options, from the stately wood-paneled Oak Room to the Oval Room, with its gorgeous trompe l’oeil cloud ceiling, to the absolute majesty of the Grand Ballroom. J’adore!”—Chad Michael Peters, 508-999-1120, chadmichaelpeters.com
The Institute of Contemporary Art
100 Northern Ave., Boston, 617-478-3100, icaboston.org
Photograph by Dave Robbins
“The space is relatively raw, which is quite a draw for the creative bride. The museum can host indoor or outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hours, and has several spaces for dinner and dancing: the café with glass doors facing the water, the theater with a customizable backdrop, and the lobby with city and harbor views.”—Alexis Eliopoulos O’Mara, Unique Weddings by Alexis, 617-833-5661, weddingsbyalexis.com
The Hampshire House
84 Beacon St., Boston, 617-227-9600,hampshirehouse.com
Photograph by Steve Kimball
“In addition to its great Beacon Hill location, the house—a historic mansion built in 1910—gives out-of-town guests a chance to experience the city’s history and charm. Each level has a working fireplace and beautiful views of the Public Garden. And the food is amazing!”—Heather Minicucci, Simply Inviting Weddings, 781-910-7232, simplyinvitingweddings.com