I wrote this article for Anne Chertoff of www.aisledash.com Thanks Anne!
1. The Views
Newport is located at the southern end of Aquidneck Island, so the town is surrounded by stunning water views. There are 11 venues with waterfront views.
2. The Location
It's just 3 1/2 hours from New York City, 1 1/2 hours from Boston and 45 minutes from Providence, making Newport an easy-to-get-to destination. The closest airport is Providence's T.F. Green International.
3. The Venues
Couples can choose from a wide range of venues, including chic tented garden affairs in Rhode Island State Parks, historic Victorian mansions, hotel ballrooms and modern loft-like banquet facilities. There really is something for everyone!
4. Fun Things to Do
There are a variety of activities for guests to enjoy. Water lovers can go sailing, boating and fishing. Ocean Drive is great for biking. At one of the area's many beaches you can fly a kite or go for a run. Everyone loves the two-seat Scoot Coupes and check out Go Newport for the concert and festival schedule.
5. Places to Stay
One can splurge on grand luxury at Forty 1 North or Castle Hill. There are two major chain hotels in town and mid-level hotels are located in the residing Middletown. Do try out the charming inns and B&Bs. My favorite picks are the Admiral Fitzroy Inn, Hilltop Inn and the Ivy Lodge.
6. Dining
Seafood rules in this town. Family-friendly fare can be found at the Red Parrot and the Brick Alley Pub & Restaurant. Hip and trendy restaurants such as Christie's and Asterisk are great for private dining as well as rehearsal dinners. Newport's sailors can always be found drinking Dark and Stormies at the Clarke Cooke House or Cafe Zelda. And seafood lovers can be found at the Black Pearl, The Moorings or Flo's Clam Shack. For the best cheap eats in town, we locals favor Salvation and @The Deck.
7. Wedding Photographers
There as so many talented photographers in Newport, couples can choose their wedding photographer based on the style they are looking for:
The Romantics: Cheryl Richards, Genevieve de Manio Photography and Lori DeSantis Photography.
Fresh and modern: Brian Phillips Photography, Sara Zarrella Photography and Kim Bova Photography.
Traditional: Alexandria Mauck Photographic Designs, David Dadekian Photography and Robert Hagan Photography.
8. Night Life
Looking for a place for your wedding afterparty? Dance at the Boom Boom Room or the Sky Bar (do come dressed: no shorts or Tees allowed) or enjoy some music at the Newport Blues Cafe.
9. Spectator Sports
Looking for activities for your out-of-town guests? Newport offers a variety of sporting activities to watch and play: rugby, polo, baseball, tennis and, of course, sailing.
10. Wedding Florists
Some of the top wedding vendors in New England are based in Newport, including these florists:
For a traditional and romantic wedding look, try Golden Gate Studios, Check the Florist (in Providence), and Broadway Florist Designs.
For a modern wedding style I recommend Ray's Flower Shop.
For a country look and feel, visit Of the Earth Floral Design.
