The Best Wedding Vendors in Essex, CT

The Best Wedding Vendors in Essex, CT

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1000+ Wedding Vendors in Essex, CT

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat 

5.0

Essex, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 230 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor

We make our beautiful facilities, equipment, and catering staff available for weddings, reunions, meetings, and other events. We have four beautiful indoor/outdoor event spaces to choose from, all different and unique in their own way!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Space for a large guest list

Venue considerations

  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Not wheelchair accessible
I have loved coming to the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat museum since I was a child so when my husband and I got engaged, we knew we had to get married here. It was such a magical venue and was reasonably priced. They truly don't try to nickel-and-dime you like a lot of other wedding venues, they just want you to have a good experience. The bridal suite was a beautifully decorated air-conditioned train car. We also decided to add on a roundtrip steam train ride down to the CT river and a steamboat cruise as our cocktail hour (honestly didn't cost as much as you'd think...). Our reception was inside the hall and was perfectly air-conditioned and decorated. We did a buffet option and the food was good! If you decide to get married outside, just remember that it IS an active train yard so make sure your officiant has a microphone. Meredith and Tyler were very easy to work with while planning the event. I highly recommend getting married here. Oh, and your photos will look INSANE.
Kayla M., 4 months ago
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Mystic River Entertainment 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Uniquely crafted music and purposeful lighting can empower you to create the most incredible and memorable night. Let me help you make that happen. Mystic River Entertainment is a modern DJ entertainment and lighting company for wedding and private events.

Awarded Best of Zola
From start to finish, Jeff nailed it with our wedding music. We had some crazy requests and his expertise helped bring those visions to life. We wanted to give our guests a fun transition from cocktail hour to the reception so we came up with the idea of having a Mardi gras style parade. Jeff placed speakers along the path to allow this to happen. Our guests loved it! Throughout the night, he kept the dance floor engaged and kept the flow of our event running smoothly. We would recommend Jeff to anyone!!
Abby A., a month ago
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LA Page Makeup 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 13
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hi guys! I’m Lauren and I am the owner of LA Page Makeup. I’ve been providing makeup services to CT and New England for over 14 years and have found nothing lights up my world more than serving clients and giving them the confidence to shine! I have earned my beauty and theatrical makeup certificates, as well as certificates in lash lifting and tinting, brow lamination, and more. Continued education is so important to me! My favorite part of doing makeup is the look of awe my clients get when they look in the mirror. If I can help give you the confidence and self-love to shine, I’ve done my job right!

Awarded Best of Zola
LA Page Makeup was an absolute delight to work with for our wedding day. From our very first interaction, the team was incredibly friendly, professional, and detailed in their communication, putting us at ease throughout the entire planning process. On the day of, our hair and makeup artists were so talented and truly made the getting ready period even more fun and special. They listened closely to our vision and executed it flawlessly, creating looks that were picture-perfect and long-lasting. Their attention to detail was impeccable, and we felt so cared for and beautiful thanks to their expertise. We cannot recommend LA Page Makeup highly enough - they helped make our wedding day dreams come true!
Ella B., 9 months ago
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Wood & Word Blooms, sola wood floral designs (faux not fresh) 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Essex, CT
  • Offer

🌹 WE ARE NOT FRESH FLOWER FLORISTS. WE WORK WITH WOOD & FAUX FLOWERS. PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE THIS IN YOUR REPLY. 🌹 Wood & Word Blooms is run by a Jen Angle, former teacher of 20+ years and specializes in using hand-painted wood flowers along with a faux, dried and preserved florals (nothing fresh here) to bring your wedding vision to life not just for that one glorious day but forever. Besides designing for you, I also offer DIY Wood Flower Experiences to create your wedding florals alongside me in person or virtually and 1:1 sessions to help DIY brides learn to do it themselves.

Awarded Best of Zola
Jen is incredible and worth every penny! My husband and I weren't very sure about how we wanted our wedding florals to look. We also didn't want to spend thousands of dollars on flowers that would only last a day. We stumbled upon wood flowers and discovered Wood and Word Blooms! Working with Jen was wonderful and seamless. She helps you every step of the way to figure out what you would like. The DIY class was so much fun, and we were able to build all of our centerpieces, boutonnières, and bouquets. Jen also built my cascade bouquet and beautiful garland for us! Everything came out so beautifully and was perfect for our day. Thank you Jen!
Bianca D., a year ago
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Anne Fitzgerald Makeup Artistry 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Essex, CT
  • Offer

Anne Fitzgerald is here to help you achieve what you envision for your wedding makeup look, collaborating with you in achieving glowing skin health, scheduling a bridal makeup trial, and being a calm, confident presence on your big day.

Awarded Best of Zola
Anne Fitzgerald Makeup Artistry was an absolute joy to work with for my wedding day! Their communication was quick, friendly, clear, helpful, and thorough throughout the entire process. The quality of their work was truly thoughtful, personalized, and caring - Anne brought so much warmth and excitement, which was the perfect way to start my wedding day. She was even thoughtful enough to put together a touch-up kit for me to have for the rest of the day. We partied hard-y and my makeup looked flawless all night! Anne and her team were so incredible to me and my wedding party and my family, and I am so thankful we found them for our big day!
Katie Hutchings (., 6 days ago

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The Barns at Wesleyan Hills 

5.0

Middletown, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 225 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $25,000

The Barns At Wesleyan Hills is a historic wedding venue located in Middletown, CT. With glorious topiary and glistening ponds on the grounds, this one of kind barn offers beauty both inside and outside its walls. This venue accommodates one wedding per day, allowing couples to enjoy this spectacular location and the surrounding grounds at ease. Our award winning team of professional wedding planners, chefs, wedding coordinators and mixologists are here to help make planning and celebrating your wedding a breeze! Your guests will be in awe of the timeless one of kind beauty paired with award winning farm to table cuisine and the best hospitality in CT. We are ready to help tell your story and ensure you have the best wedding ever - we are just a call, text or email away!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a fun and festive vibe
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Unique barn setting

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Not for you if you're looking for a sleek and contemporary space
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
The only thing that exceeds CT Wedding Groups reputation is their execution. Our day was flawless. Our coordinator Mary is simply one of one. There is no one better. She was on top of everything we needed before we knew we needed it. It was no surprise to us how impeccably she did her job after working with her right hand, Eddie. They were an absolute dream team that left us wanting for nothing. Coming into our wedding day we had a very specific vision. CT Wedding Group took our vision and turned it from a reality to a living dream. There are 0 critiques, there are 0 regrets, they delivered in a way that still has our loved ones reaching out to rave about their experience. It all seemed too good to be true, but it was better. The food. The food. The food. The food. The food. The food. More than anything else we are getting non stop compliments about the food. Their culinary team was just out of this world. Our event chef Jeff delivered on a level that you can’t even find at some 5 star restaurants. This was not wedding food. This was bliss. On top of all of this was the service. Just the perfect finish. The servers and bartenders took care of our guests like their own family. This experience was unlike anything we could have imagined. CT Wedding Group is astounding. We simply cannot recommend them enough.
Casey D., 5 months ago
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Everlasting Affairs, LLC 

5.0

  • Planner
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Everlasting Affairs was born out of a driving passion for the event industry and the ability to mold our clients dreams into reality. Since our inception, we’ve committed ourselves to creating impactful and one of a kind experiences for our clients and their guests, no matter the size of the event. Our team strives to meet and exceed the needs of each and every one of our clients. This is because we understand the importance of working with (not just for) our clients in order to make their events unforgettable, forging memories that last long after the last guest leaves.

Awarded Best of Zola
We could not have been happier to have Victoria on our team for our July 2024 wedding! We hired Victoria for wedding day management. She went above and beyond throughout our planning process and made us feel like we were her top priority, even though we know she works with many couples throughout the wedding season. Her organization, attention to detail, and patience are unmatched. The BEO that she creates for the wedding day was so informative and detailed and brought so much joy to this Type A bride! During planning, I was struggling with the color scheme and table design for the reception. Victoria came to my rescue and helped design our table scapes and handled all correspondence with the rentals company. The outcome was absolutely stunning and I could not have been happier. Similarly, I did not know how to go about creating the timeline for our transportation and wedding day. Victoria provided this for us and it was seamless and so easy. Our family and wedding party were so impressed with how she ran our wedding rehearsal. On the wedding day itself, she made sure that the day flowed smoothly. From collecting and setting up all of our day-of details, orchestrating the flow of our wedding ceremony, and even bustling my wedding dress, she was involved in every aspect of our day and ensured that it was perfect. My husband and I could relax and be fully present knowing that Victoria had everything under control. I cannot recommend Victoria and Everlasting Affairs highly enough!
Tess D., a year ago
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The Pavilion on Crystal Lake 

5.0

Middletown, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 210 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $20,000

The Pavilion on Crystal Lake is a lakefront wedding venue located in Middletown, CT. The charming property offers picturesque event spaces for both ceremonies and receptions, as well as other special occasions. Couples can celebrate their love and commitment to one another with guests in the venue’s beautiful barn that overlooks Crystal Lake. To alleviate wedding-related stress during the planning process, their award-winning team is happy to assist with details big and small.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
Everything about the Pavilion on Crystal Lake was perfect. The planning process was made so easy with their team of planners and coordinators. They also helped recommend other vendors as needed. The day coordination was also incredible. My husband and I were so calm, did not need to stress or worry because everything was taken care of. Sean and Eddy were amazing day of. 10/10 recommend!!
Dani W., 4 months ago
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Chelsea Rush Photography 

4.9

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,100
  • Serves Essex, CT

📸 Hi, I'm Chelsea, a wedding photographer with a love for capturing joy! With 4 years of professional experience (many more years as a hobbyist), my style mixes classic elegance with candid moments. I believe in creating a relaxed, fun environment, ensuring your special day is beautifully immortalized. Let's capture your love story! 💌

Awarded Best of Zola
I cannot recommend Chelsea enough!!! From the moment we first inquired with her, to our engagement shoot, to the planning process leading up to our wedding and to the absolutely amazing work she did capturing our wedding, Chelsea is so so incredible. She exceeded our expectations and more. She is thorough, prompt and really pays attention to detail. Chelsea is very timely with emails and messages, and can answer any question or challenge you bring to her. She is very organized and was a huge piece to how our wedding stayed on time and on track. Chelsea captured all of my inspo pics as well as all the photo combinations we wanted at our wedding. The turnaround time of when she gets our pictures back to us is insane!! Chelsea is one in a million and we cannot wait to work with her again in the future!!!
Lexi, a month ago
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Evergreen Farms 

5.0

Dayville, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,000

Are you envisioning a wedding surrounded by the warmth of a modern barn, the charm of rustic details, and the natural beauty of a 5-acre tree farm? Look no further than Evergreen Farms, nestled in the heart of Dayville, CT, the perfect canvas for your love story. Our venue seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern sophistication, providing a timeless backdrop for your celebration. Picture-perfect settings await as you explore our expansive tree farm, a serene escape for breathtaking photo opportunities. Elevate your celebration with customizable catering options starting as low as $20 per person, ensuring a delightful experience for you and your guests. We would LOVE to hear from you!! To find out more information or to schedule a tour, you can email us at evergreenfarms22atgmaildotcom or submit an inquiry at wwwdotevergreenfarms22dotcom ! At Evergreen Farms, we're not just a venue; we're the beginning of your forever. Let us be the canvas for your love story.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Allows pets

Venue considerations

  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
Awarded Best of Zola
Evergreen Farms was absolutely perfect for our big day! When we came for a visit we know immediately it was our place. Everything we needed in one venue! Jess was incredibly accommodating and was able to give us some wiggle room in some areas. The space is gorgeous and we got so many compliments on the venue itself. We are honored to be apart of the Evergreen Farms Family!
Maggie M., 3 months ago
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Dawson Entertainment Production, LLC 

5.0

  • DJ
  • Serves Essex, CT

Dawson Entertainment is a DJ, lighting and photo booth company founded by Jason Dawson (DJ JD) in 2007. With his background in nightlife event production as Music Director and resident DJ at Shrine Nightclub inside Foxwoods, Jason combines the high energy, smooth transition mixing style of a nightclub DJ with the refined experience and fun playlist of a wedding DJ to keep the dance floor rocking! All of our DJ's come from this background of skilled mixing. Combine that with fun additions like Mirror Photo Booth, Uplighting and Marquee Letters and you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable event!

Awarded Best of Zola
Booking a DJ for our wedding was a VERY important detail to us. We didn't just want someone to play music, we wanted a DJ that would set the tone, play a perfect combination of songs we wanted and the ones they know will get everyone out of their seat, and most importantly a DJ that makes everyone have a blast. DJ JD did ALL of that and more! WE CANNOT RECOMMEND HIM ENOUGH for your wedding! He was great to work with beforehand, did a great job setting up the outdoor dancefloor lighting and has led to countless compliments from our guests about how much fun they had on the dancefloor at our wedding. If dancing is important to you, book him now!!
Matthew L., a year ago
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Shakeup Makeup LLC 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 1
  • Serves Essex, CT

Bridal beauty with your bridal bestie, that's me! Your wedding day is ALL about feeling gorgeous, confident, and totally YOU—and I’m here to make sure of it! From the moment we start getting ready, I’m not just your bridal makeup artist—I’m your hype girl, personal beauty expert, and biggest cheerleader! Whether you need someone to keep the energy high, make sure you feel amazing before your first look, or bring all the positive vibes to your bridal party, I’ve got you covered.

Awarded Best of Zola
Shakeup Makeup is the perfect company for your wedding day makeup. The owner, Marisa, is an absolute pleasure to work with and is a true artist when it comes to makeup. We had set up a trial day before the wedding and I could not be happier. And somehow, on the day of the wedding, the final product was even more stunning! Marisa is personable, professional, and knows her craft. My makeup and the makeup she did for the entire wedding party lasted all day and night, even though we danced with great intensity and really put it to the test! I did not have to touch up my makeup once throughout the night and got many compliments on how it looked. Do not hesitate to book Shakeup Makeup for your next wedding or event!
Jesse C., a year ago
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Evermore Beauty 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Starts at $350
  • Serves Essex, CT

Evermore Beauty, based in Ellington, Connecticut, is a beauty service that provides on-site wedding day makeup and hair. The company is owned by Eve Grenon, who is a certified makeup artist and has been doing makeup professionally for over 10+years, specializing in bridal. She understands how it's one of the biggest days of your life which is why she specializes in bulletproof bridal makeup. Makeup that will last throughout all emotions and weather. She’s also teamed up with Megan O’Neill, who’s 17+ years behind the chair has provided amazing hair styling, intricate updos and long lasting curls for all types of hair types and weather!!

Awarded Best of Zola
Eve and Megan were incredible to work with!! I HIGHLY recommend Evermore Beauty! From the start, Eve was responsive, organized, and knowledgeable. I don’t use a lot of makeup usually, and she gave me a look that felt glamorous AND natural. I never wanted to take it off after the trial and wedding, I loved it so much! And it stayed on all day without a single worry. Eve gave me a touch up kit that I never even had to use, which was a really sweet touch. My hair was also incredible thanks to the talented Megan! She gave me so much volume, which is hard to do with my hair, and I got so many compliments! Both Eve and Megan are not only talented, but also very kind and fun! You will not regret having Evermore Beauty be a part of your big day :)
Alyssa Z., 10 months ago
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HairstylesCo. 

4.9

  • Beauty professional
  • Starts at $150
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hey there! I'm Meghan, the founder of HairstylesCo! Want to know a little about how it all started? As a kid growing up in the 90s, barbies, Polly pocket, basically any doll that allowed you to customize the hairstyle…you name it, I had it. Picture this tiny girl holding a barbie styling head, running as fast as her 7 year old nugget legs would carry her. All to show her mom the “twist braid” hairstyle she spent hours “creating”. Guess you could say I knew my path all along…Fast forward to hair school, 15 years ago. First day-I knew I was in the right place! Now to describe my style-I'd rather give you a visual.

Meghan was an actual blessing on our wedding. We got married in Maine and I had previously found someone more local to do my hair. To say that initial test with the other person was disappointing would be a gross understatement. I have very thin hair and as such bought extensions. The other person said she couldn't use all of them, and the ones she did use pulled on my hair and scalp in such a painful way that I couldn't wear them for more than an hour or so and the style looked thin and fried. Enter Meghan. Given the exact same tools and accessories she worked actual magic. She gave me wedding hair better than I ever could've imagined or dreamed of. I asked for wild and witchy and romantic and she delivered tenfold. It was so comfortable and long-lasting and I got nothing but compliments on it and she did such a good job integrating the extensions that no one believed it wasn't my real hair. She gave recommendations for which extensions to get and what products to use to prep my hair and was all around amazing. She even helped my groom with his hair last minute on the day of and he looked fabulous too. Meghan was such a joy to be around and was so sweet and kind and helpful and talented that I wish I could get married again just to use her. She's a gem and I will recommend her to anyone who asks and everyone who doesn't ask.
Emily R., 10 months ago
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Smudge 

5.0

  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 10
  • Starts at $600
  • Serves Essex, CT

My name is Amber, and I'm the owner of Smudge. I have been in the industry for 10 years working weddings, editorial, and film. Weddings have been a constant throughout my career and styling brides has been my favorite type of make-up. I love being a part of someone's special day and creating a look that makes them feel like the best version of themselves. In 2018 I started Smudge, a team of on-site hair and makeup artists based in South Eastern CT, specializing in weddings. We're an onsite team that serves all of Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Massachusetts, and beyond. *Now booking 2025 and 2026*

Awarded Best of Zola
Smudge was an absolute pleasure to work with for my wedding day beauty needs. From our very first consultation, Amber and Sarah were professional, responsive, and put me at ease throughout the entire process. Their communication style was pleasant and they expertly navigated a larger wedding party and two moms who were a bit indecisive. The quality of their work was worth every penny - my hair and makeup looked sleek and flawless, and it lasted all night without any cry streaks! I could not have been happier with the value Smudge provided on my special day. Thanks for traveling to Vermont for my wedding!
Alexandra L., 9 months ago
AVENTZ Co. 

4.7

  • Planner
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $1,200
  • Serves Essex, CT

AVENTZ Co. - curating eclectic, eccentric, and elegant event experiences for all, while celebrating individuality and creativity. Abby your planner has over 10 years in the event industry and has worked in every aspect of the event industry before becoming an event specialist. At AVENTZ Co., we genuinely care about you, your event, and your guests. Our goal is to ensure that your special day is not only fun and memorable but also safe and stress-free.

Awarded Best of Zola
A few weekends ago I had the opportunity to DJ a wedding and Abby, owner of Aventz Co. was the wedding coordinator. Having worked with many coordinators over the past six years, Abby was hands down, the best I have ever worked with. Our correspondences began months before the wedding. Abby reached out to me to introduce herself and discussed the details of the wedding, what the bride and groom wanted, and presented a preliminary timeline. When changes occurred, Abby notified me immediately. A week before the wedding, Abby sent out a incredibly detailed list of the days events to all the vendors. The attachments included 4, multiple page outlines and diagrams of the ceremony set up, pictures of the park layout, the guest seating chart (as well as each meal selection), and even a video showing a map of the area while providing commentary of the schedule for the day. I was impressed by her attention to detail and commitment to excellence. During the wedding, Abby was everywhere, given directions, helping with plating, and making sure everything was perfect. She is hands down, the best coordinator I have worked with and will certainly be referring her to all my future clients.
Robert Banspach, a year ago
Sterling Flower Farm 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Whether you need flowers for a small elopement or an elaborate celebration, we want to make your wedding flowers as special and unique as your love. We hope you will choose to celebrate the environment when you celebrate your special day by choosing our Connecticut-grown flowers. I treat the flowers with preservatives to help them last for your special day, rendering them non-organic.

Awarded Best of Zola
Sterling Flower Farm was a joy to work with for our wedding. They were easy to reach and quick to respond throughout the planning process. The quality of their work was exceptional - the flowers they grew on their own farm were absolutely beautiful. They decorated our tables with eucalyptus greenery and created stunning floral arrangements for our ceremony arch. Our bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres were all stunning and exceeded our expectations. We couldn't have been happier with Sterling Flower Farm and highly recommend them to any couple planning their wedding.
Katie R., a year ago
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First and Last Productions LLC 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Cinematic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, CT

WHOLEHEARTED WEDDING FILMS -- I have filmed & produced over 350 weddings to date and enjoy capturing all of the beauty and magic of a wedding day. My style ranges from cinematic to classic to documentary so what I offer is a bit of everything for your viewing pleasure. Go to my website and read my reviews from my couples... it will tell you everything you need to know about me and my business. I look forward to possibly filming your big day!

An absolutely wonderful videographer! Julius was so amazing to work with before, during, and after our big day. He was efficient, prompt, and a joy to work with. He and his assistant videographer Colby worked tirelessly to get the footage of our big day and they did so in a way that we always felt comfortable. I was nervous I would be hyper aware of the cameras, but I wasn’t at all. We received our videos and they are BEAUTIFUL. He truly is an artist. It can be a scary thing to choose a company to handle such an important task, but rest assured, if you choose first and last productions, you’ll be in good hands.
Andrea Marrero H., a year ago
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Rudbeckia Florals 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hey 👋, I’m Rebecca, owner and lead florist at Rudbeckia florals. I create custom designs for every occasion. With a background in sustainability, I source flowers from local CT flower farms and limit the use of traditional floral foam.

Awarded Best of Zola
We are so glad that we hired Rudbeckia Florals for our wedding! Rebecca was able to quickly capture our initial vision in a creative mood board, which made it easy for us to provide feedback. We were really impressed with how she seamlessly worked with our wedding planner and other vendors to ensure her florals and the flowers in rented items (e.g. arch and pillars) were cohesive in color and style. All of the florals Rebecca created were so beautiful and several of our guests stated that they were the best they have ever seen. I would highly recommend her for any future events!!!
A&R B., 10 months ago
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ALM Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,250
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hi, I'm Tony, owner of ALM Photography.. I'm a seasoned photographer with over 10 years of wedding experience specializing in true to life, unfiltered wedding photography. With more than 25 years of dedication as an emergency room nurse, I bring a unique perspective and a keen eye for detail to every shot. Brides and grooms-to-be, as you prepare for your special day, trust me to capture the magic with skillful artistry and heartfelt sincerity. Let my background as both a caretaker and visual storyteller ensure that every moment is beautifully preserved, creating lasting memories for years to come.

Awarded Best of Zola
Tony did such a fantastic job with our wedding photos. He perfectly captured the atmosphere of our wedding and was extremely professional throughout the entire process. During our pre-wedding meeting, he did a great job walking us through different things he would want us to do in order to capture some incredible photos and timing them for the appropriate lighting. From start to finish it was an extremely smooth process with some incredible photographs.
Brandon H., a year ago
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Kelli's Kitchen 

5.0

  • Caterer
  • Starts at $85
  • Serves Essex, CT

It is our mission at Kelli’s Kitchen to provide you with a wow factor through the elegance of our food, and the excellence of our service. Kelli has been cooking for over 20 years teaching her homeschooled children and their friends how to cook a wide array of culinary delights, from simple, tasteful appetizers to mouthwatering entrees. In that time, Kelli found her joy and artistic ability through food. That same creativity and hospitality is emanated through our food and staff to create a personalized, unforgettable experience at your event.

Awarded Best of Zola
Kelli catered to us for our June 2024 wedding. The team flowed so effortlessly together between hors d’oeuvres, entrees and desserts. Our cake was AMAZING! Such a unique flavor: blueberry lemon lavender. They provided us with buffet style—honey glazed salmon, chicken cutlets, string beans, and a salad with this phenomenal home made dressing!!! Favorite dessert was the mini cheesecake bites. The rustic decor and naked styled cake was exactly our vision. Kelli was very attentive to our needs from checking in while I was getting ready and providing drinks and hors d’oeuvres and guiding us through the transitions of the wedding. We got rain towards the end of the evening and the team did such a good job covering and moving tables and decor around. We didn’t have to lift a finger. They cleaned up fast at the end too. Kelli’s kitchen is the quickest yet most organized catering service we’ve ever had! Thank you Kelli and team for making our night so special and tasteful!
Alesia F., a year ago
Brianna Ritoli Photography LLC 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, CT

I was born and raised in the smallest little state, Rhode Island! With that comes a huge appreciation for the coast and a realization that magic can be found in even the smallest of details. Growing up in a small town where time seems to go by slower helped me learn the value of genuine connections which have now become apart of who I am.

Awarded Best of Zola
We are SO glad we worked with Bri! From start to finish she was supportive, communicative, and onboard with our elopement. My husband and I are not comfortable in front of the camera and she made it so easy to get beautiful photos! I let Bri use her artistic vision to get a lot of our photos, and I am so happy I did. Her and Lucas were fabulous - and essential to keeping our elopement as quiet as possible. I will definitely be reaching out to Bri if we ever need any other photos done! Thank you so so much for capturing our day!!
Katelyn H., a year ago
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Wendy Clare Designs 

5.0

  • Event extras
  • Gifts and favors
  • Starts at $16
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hi! My name is Wendy and I am the owner, head designer and founder of Wendy Clare Designs. I am a mom of two, who loves the sea and all things coastal, beautiful things, as well as upcycling. In my shop, which I founded in 2022, I have combined all three of these passions. I have always loved working with my hands, and am so happy to now be able to make beautiful things for you, your event and your home my full time career (after some unsatisfying ones as a lawyer and teacher).

Wendy worked with me on a large custom order for my rehearsal dinner. I made several changes to the design and quantity and she was super responsive and helpful throughout. The oysters came out so cute and we got multiple comments about the craftsmanship and detail. They also arrived on time and undamaged despite ordering very close to the event date. Don’t hesitate to work with Wendy to make your design come to life, this was my favorite detail from my wedding weekend. Thanks for making it possible!
Sara C., 2 months ago
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Poquonnock Plains Urban Farm 

5.0

  • Florist
  • Starts at $2,500
  • Serves Essex, CT
  • Offer

Couples who value local and sustainable and want their wedding or event to reflect who they are, choose PQ Urban Farm Flowers. My designs are known for their romantic, whimsical, and lush aesthetic. My work is perfect for a couple who wants a fairytale, garden, or organic minimalist wedding I am happy to work with any vision you have for your special day. As a flower farmer and floral designer, I am an expert in seasonally grown flowers. Show me your look and color pallete and I will choose the perfect in season flowers. Expect a collaborative approach as I will work with you to create a floral vision that reflects your style and budget.

Maryann was incredible to work with. My husband and I put our wedding together in a month and Maryann could not have made the experience more stress free. I am a Capricorn, incredibly controlling when it comes to planning and Maryann made me so comfortable I told her to take the reins. I gave her my vision and it was as though she crawled into my head and executed everything perfectly. Our beach ceremony was followed by our reception at Ocean House where bud vases of her wildflowers danced beautifully down the center of the table with votives and wild greenery. My wildflower, beach wedding would not have been what it was without her. I recommend Maryann for any event. Her positivity radiates through her skill and she adds color to any event!
Sara A., 2 months ago
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True Colors Productions 

5.0

  • Videographer
  • Storytelling style
  • Serves Essex, CT

My name is Taylor — I’m a husband, father, teacher, ocean lover, and videographer / editor based out of CT and Cape Cod. I’ve been passionate about photography for as long as I can remember, and deep down I’ve always felt that capturing moments was in some way my calling. A few years ago I began to realize that photographs — even the most compelling ones — are not able to tell an entire story. They provide a powerful glimpse, frozen in time, but even the best photographs are unable to preserve memories and emotions the way that films can.

Awarded Best of Zola
I can't say enough great things about Taylor! I knew from our initial call that I wanted him on our vendor team and I couldn't be happier with my decision! His films capture the elegant and timeless vibes I was hoping for and he was an absolute joy to plan and work with. Taylor and my photographer blended seamlessly and teamed up on the big day to work their magic. Our social media reel is my favorite thing to watch now and we're so excited to see the final product! Taylor is truly gifted and I would highly recommend him to any bride!
Lindsay C., a year ago
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The Mansion At Bald Hill 

4.9

Woodstock, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,750

The Mansion at Bald Hill is a historic, private mansion that serves as a premier wedding venue, gourmet restaurant and B&B in South Woodstock, Connecticut. The mansion is a historic landmark that offers a private, quiet getaway – making it the perfect venue for your wedding day. The team of award-winning chefs uses the highest quality of fresh, organic and local ingredients to create unique seasonal menus personalized for you. The mansion hosts six elegant guest rooms for overnight stays, and has beautiful grounds and gardens where you will celebrate your special day.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Allows pets

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
We couldn’t have asked for a better venue for our wedding! We wanted a venue with history, beautiful views, affordable, and only had one wedding a day -- and we got it! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the stunning scenery and beautiful architecture. The staff was incredibly accommodating, the bartenders were so thoughtful. One brought in mint from her garden, as mojitos were my favorite drink! While there were a few moments of uncertainty and lack of communication in the planning process, it didn't take away from the magic of the day. The outdoor ceremony space was perfect, surrounded by lush greenery and gorgeous views. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about how beautiful everything was! Inside, the reception area was equally impressive, with plenty of room for dancing and celebrating. The food was absolutely delicious, and they offered a variety of options that everyone loved. The attention to detail was evident in every aspect, from the decor to the service. Overall, our experience at this venue was nothing short of magical. We feel so lucky to have chosen this place to start our new chapter together. Highly recommend it to any couple looking for the perfect and affordable wedding venue!
Camille B., 10 months ago
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Hope Lodge Venue 

4.9

Moosup, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 170 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Offer

Located in Moosup, Connecticut, Hope Lodge Venue is a unique event space. Perfect for celebrations, it has 2 floors of 5000 square feet of beautifully renovated space in a building bursting with historic charm. On the top floor, couples will encounter a wood ceiling, barn doors, gold chandelier and a huge stage. Combined, these elements can create an atmosphere like no other. On the lower level, couples will find an industrial but chic rustic space with large windows, full bar and bridal suite.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Rustic charm with elegance
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
I had the pleasure of working with Hope Lodge Venue recently as a wedding photographer and I can say they are a fantastic choice . Their communication style is incredibly responsive, helpful, and enthusiastic - they go above and beyond to ensure every detail is taken care of. Great quality of work for a the value ; the venue is open, clean, bright, and airy, creating the perfect atmosphere for a wedding or big event . One memorable example was when the staff dressed up along with the Gatsby-themed wedding, truly immersing themselves in the couple's vision. My only suggestion would be for them to potentially expand their parking area in the future, but overall, Hope Lodge Venue is an excellent option for couples seeking a beautiful, well-managed wedding venue and one they could decorate and make their own.
Caroline, a year ago
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Nicole York Photography 

5.0

  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hii! I'm Nicole and I work full-time as a nurse and pursued my passion for photography in 2017 when I would attend my boyfriend (now husband's) motocross races all over New England. I quickly began capturing family and friends and learned that I loved capturing moments in life big and small! I love capturing people in love and enjoy being able to make others feel beautiful and confident through my photos.

Awarded Best of Zola
Nicole York Photography was an absolute dream to work with for our wedding. From the very start, their communication was top-notch - they were always available via text, call, or email, and made the entire process incredibly easy. The quality of their work was simply wonderful, effortless, and perfect. Nicole even went above and beyond, carrying my train for me throughout the day since I didn't have any bridesmaids. She is truly a hard worker who goes out of her way to make you feel special on your big day. Nicole is a complete sweetheart, and I would recommend her photography services to anyone planning a wedding.
Lisa G., 10 months ago
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Chocolate Rose Bakeshop 

5.0

  • Cakes & desserts
  • Starts at $120
  • Serves Essex, CT

Welcome. When I first started my story, it started out with me as a young adult and starting my adventure down the road of cake artistry. Then I dug a little deeper and gave thought to what probably sparked my interest in cake decorating. Chocolate Rose Bakeshop is Griswold, CT’s fav Custom & Special Occasion Cakeshop. Our creations may look too good to eat, but they taste too good NOT to! At Chocolate Rose we take pride in creating cakes that not only look too good to eat but taste too good NOT to!

Awarded Best of Zola
Chocolate rose bake shop made a delicious three layered cake for my wedding that consisted of chocolate cake and mocha buttercream as a filling, and vanilla cake with chocolate ganache. The cake tasted amazing and the green ombré effect they did to decorate the outside of the cake was beautiful!
Lia D., a year ago

Essex, CT reception venues by style

Outdoor spaces
Outdoor spaces