Every “off” season we are drawn back to our roots – what worked for us when we first started our business. What worked for us is simple, we take the time to meet wedding professionals, tour venues and build relationships. So in mid February, I hit the ground running (not really – I bundled up and cranked the heat in my jeep) and set out for a day full of tours.

First up, the Treman Center in Newfield NY on the outskirts of Ithaca. The Treman Center is owned and operated by a husband wife team – Leslie and Kevin Reilly is a 6,000 square foot space that gives a magical tuscany feel in Upstate NY – A photo of the property from The Treman Center website –

Next I headed to Aurora –
Enjoyed a delicious quick breakfast at Doris’s Bakery – I will be going back whenever I get the chance.

 

 

 

 

While in Aurora, I had the opportunity to tour several of the Inns of Aurora – absolutely speechless. The details, textures, patterns, colors – just stunning!

These are the specific spaces I was able to see while visiting –

AURORA INN

The Aurora Inn’s elegant Lakeside Room can accommodate 96 guests for a plated dinner and up to 125 for a cocktail reception. During warmer months, French doors open onto an expansive stone terrace overlooking the lake, an idyllic spot for cocktails and dancing. The Aurora Inn also offers lakeside wedding receptions under pristine white tents for up to 200 guests. With soaring ceilings, shimmering white lights and large wooden dance floor, the tent creates a magical environment day or night.

E.B. MORGAN HOUSE

For smaller weddings, E.B. Morgan House is an exquisite option. Envision welcoming guests into your own private lakeside mansion: your closest family and friends gather on the lawn as you sweep down the staircase in your wedding gown.

E.B. Morgan House can accommodate up to 14 guests for an exquisite five-course dinner served on sparkling Mackenzie-Childs china. For groups of up to 25, our chefs can create a Gatsby-esque cocktail party sure to delight.

ROWLAND HOUSE

Picturesquely situated on a bluff overlooking Cayuga Lake, the Grecian temple at Rowland House serves as a striking setting for your intimate wedding ceremony of up to 50 guests. Rowland House can also accommodate cocktail or buffet-style receptions for up to 50 guests, providing that a private rental has been arranged. Seated dinner receptions of up to 22 may be in hosted in the home’s dining room, featuring stunning artwork and unparalleled views of the sunset of the lake.

*text from Inns of Aurora website

Next stop, I went to Skaneateles – Mandana Barn – this was probably the chilliest part of my tours – the wind was brutal – Mandana is traditional dairy barn that is used seasonally for weddings.

My last stop of the day, Bridal Barn in Homer. I loved touring Jodi’s shop and chatting with her about wedding trends, photo shoots and all things weddings.

Stay tuned for my next tour in Munnsville, Deansboro and Clinton NY.