A Newport Mansion wedding has incomparable elegance and glamour. As Newport wedding photographer specialists, you’ll discover how we capture iconic wedding photos at these spectacular venues in Newport, RI.
As Rhode Islanders, we tend to take Newport for granted. That’s why we love to drive down Bellevue with out-of-state couples to share the pure awe and amazement on their faces as we look at these magnificent mansions. From the grand architecture of the Newport Mansions, the modern elegance of Belle Mer, and the waterfront sparkle of the Castle Hill Inn, this route shows how Newport is truly the shining star of elegant weddings in Rhode Island.
Between the stunning architecture, ocean views, and sophisticated setting, there are endless ways to make a Newport Mansion wedding unforgettable. Plus, Newport wedding photographers have the privilege of capturing some of the most exquisite sunsets! Let’s explore all the City by the Sea offers so you can discover if a Newport Mansion wedding is right for you.
History of the Newport Mansions
The mansions of Newport were initially referred to as “cottages” and were built as summer homes for the wealthy in the 1850s. While the extravagance of the Vanderbilts, Astors, Dukes, and Cushings funded the creation of these sea-side mansions, today, you don’t need to be a Gilded Age heiress to throw a fabulous wedding at one of them.
While there are several historic and iconic properties in Newport, including The Breakers, The Elms, and Chateau-sur-Mer, only two mansions are available as wedding venues: Marble House and Rosecliff.
Marble House was established when William K. Vanderbilt asked architect Richard Morris Hunt to design “the very best living accommodations that money could buy” in 1892. The mansion broke ground that year at a construction cost of $11 million. True to its name, the structure contains about 500,000 cubic feet of American, Italian, and African marble.
In 1902, silver mining heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs requested a grand estate inspired by the Grand Trianon at Versailles. Rosecliff remains a prime example of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions and was used in several iconic movies, including The Great Gatsby, True Lies, Amistad, and 27 Dresses. As a Newport wedding photographer, this mansion is one of my favorites and holds a special place in my heart because my parents married there in 1981.
The Best Photo Opportunities at the Newport Mansions
Whether you choose Marble House or Rosecliff, you will be full of awe-inspiring backdrops for incredible wedding photos. These historical estates are ideal for more formal and lavish weddings, with the grand facade and intricate architectural details adding to the luxurious feeling. We encourage any couple getting married here to lean into opulence – think of overflowing floral centerpieces, gold or silver accents, dramatic table settings, and custom signage made by a calligraphy artist.
Not only will you have access to gorgeous seaside views and beautifully-manicured grounds, but every nook of these mansions offers a stunning backdrop. I love Rosecliff for the large windows that allow natural light to shine through, the tall splashing fountains, the marble patio, and the iconic heart-shaped staircase.
One of the most memorable aspects of hosting a Newport Mansion wedding is the many fantastic photo opportunities without ever needing to leave the property! We recommend scheduling plenty of time for photos to capture every stunning moment and take advantage of your one-of-a-kind venue.
Book Your Newport Wedding Photographer Today
Photographing elegant weddings at Newport Mansions is one of our specialties. Our decades of experience have provided us with in-depth knowledge of Rosecliff and Marle House so we can capture all your wedding memories, from the quiet kisses to the grand hurrahs of your joyful celebration.
Reach out today to capture every fabulous moment of your elegant and luxurious Newport Mansion wedding.
