Italian-Inspired Wedding Venues in NY
As a wedding photographer who has photographed more than 100 weddings, I know how much the right venue can shape the entire feel of a wedding day. I believe a beautiful space sets the tone—not just for the photos, but for the whole experience. Selecting a great wedding venue isn’t just about the views or the decor, it’s about how the place makes you feel the moment you arrive.
In this post, I’m sharing some of my favorite Italian-inspired wedding venues that bring that warm, romantic, countryside vibe—without needing to hop on a plane. These places are full of charm, great light, and thoughtful details that make your day feel relaxed, personal, and just a little extra special.
Glenmere Mansion: Like an Italian Villa—Right Here in New York
Glenmere Mansion really does feel like you’ve stepped into an Italian villa, but it’s tucked away in the Hudson Valley. The views of Glenmere Lake and the Catskills are beautiful, the gardens are perfectly kept, and the whole place just has that laid-back, countryside feel—such a great vibe for a wedding.
The building itself has warm stucco walls and pretty archways, just like something you’d see in Tuscany. There’s a peaceful courtyard in the middle with a marble fountain, and the terraces and stone columns give the place that old European charm.
The gardens are perfect for cocktail hour, with quiet spots to wander through and enjoy the view. The lawns are just as lovely and can work for anything from a small group to a big celebration—up to 350 guests, or even 400 with a tent out on the Meadow.
What really stood out to me was the service. Every little detail is taken care of. The event team is super helpful—from keeping everything running smoothly to helping with the dress or making sure guests who needed extra help had everything they needed. The staff—valets, servers, bartenders, chefs—were kind, professional, and always ahead of the game.
The food was not only delicious but beautifully presented. Imagine brunch out on the loggia with the doors open to the garden—just perfect.
From welcome drinks to the final toast at brunch the next day, everything flows so easily. Each space moves naturally into the next, and whether you’re chatting with a butler or getting a drink from the bar, everyone makes you feel right at home.
You can tell the owners put a lot of care into this place—from how it’s maintained to the amazing team they’ve put together. If you're planning a wedding, it’s one of those places that really sticks with you.
The gardens were designed to feel like you’re walking through the Italian countryside—great for sunset photos, cocktails under the trees, or just taking it all in. And while you won’t see the Mediterranean, the rolling lawns, Glenmere Lake, and the Catskills give you a view that’s just as stunning in its own way.
Inside, the vibe continues with warm tones, vintage details, and gorgeous suites that feel more like a luxury getaway than a typical wedding venue. It’s elegant, but never over the top—just that easy, relaxed kind of luxury you'd expect from a real Italian villa.
For receptions, Glenmere Mansion offers "The Barn," accommodating up to 350 guests. Despite its name, The Barn is elegantly designed with whitewashed interiors, five massive Italian wedding chandeliers, and 20-foot vaulted beamed ceilings. It includes bride’s and groom’s attendant rooms, restrooms, and a catering kitchen space . A covered patio runs the length of The Barn, offering views of the lower Hudson Valley and Glenmere Lake.
So, if you’ve been dreaming of a destination wedding but want to keep it local and more manageable for your guests, Glenmere really gives you that Italian feel without ever leaving New York. The charm, the food, the views, and the whole experience—it’s all here. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind and celebrate with the people you love.
Capacity: up to 350 guests
Price: starting $35,000
Addressee: 634 Pine Hill Road, Chester, NY 10918
https://www.glenmeremansion.com/
Abbey Inn and Spa
This charming hotel, a former convent dating back to 1902, sits on a hilltop with a view that honestly took me by surprise. The Hudson River Valley stretches out below, and it really does feel like a little piece of Italy. It’s peaceful, elegant, and just a really special place to choose for your wedding day.
The Abbey Inn & Spa is truly a flawless choice for a wedding venue. Both indoors and outdoors, couples and guests are treated to breathtaking spaces. As a wedding photographer, I was particularly drawn to the stunning architecture and the sweeping view of the Hudson Valley, which make for some incredible photos.
The venue’s charm also evokes the feeling of an Italian countryside estate. There’s an impressive variety of spaces for different parts of the day—from the ceremony to cocktail hour and reception. This variety provides endless options for wedding photography, allowing couples to capture their special moments in truly unique settings.
🏰 Highlands Ballroom: This used to be the convent’s chapel, and it still has those gorgeous vaulted ceilings and amazing natural light. It’s big, dramatic, and perfect for a larger celebration.
Capacity: Up to 220 seated / 150 standing
🌿 The Grand Terrace: This outdoor spot has a tented area, a fire pit, and a killer view of the Hudson. It’s great for cocktail hour or a more casual dinner setup.
Capacity: Up to 120 seated / 250 standing
🕍 The Cornerstone Room: A smaller, super unique space with stained-glass windows and hand-painted walls. It’s cozy and full of character.
Capacity: Up to 64 seated / 100 standing
From the very beginning, the staff makes the planning process seamless. They are responsive and willing to accommodate your questions and requests. They pay close attention to every detail and are thorough in organizing the timeline, ensuring everything goes smoothly. The negotiations and contracts are straightforward and easy to understand, making it a stress-free experience for everyone involved.
The coordinators are always available and take care of anything that comes up. The entire staff—from the hotel desk team and cleaning crew to servers, bartenders, valet, and line cooks—is professional, courteous, and eager to help.
The Abbey Inn & Spa is an exceptional venue. The food and drinks are fresh, tasty, and expertly prepared.
Price: $20,000 starting price
Addressee:400 Fort Hill Road, Peekskill, NY
Rushmore State
Even though Rushmore Estate is technically a Spanish Colonial mansion, it has a similar old-world charm and warmth that you'd find in Italian villas.
It is one of those places that just stops you in your tracks. From the moment you arrive, you will feel like you have stepped into a private retreat tucked away in the Hudson Valley. The 1911 Spanish Colonial ballroom is absolutely stunning—tall vaulted ceilings, detailed plasterwork, oak floors, and these gorgeous French doors that open out to a stone patio. There’s even a huge fireplace that adds such a cozy touch. It feels elegant without being over-the-top.
One thing I really love is that everything happens in one place. You can get ready here, have your ceremony outside at sunset, enjoy cocktail hour under the open sky, and then dance all night in the ballroom or even out under the stars. The grounds are beautiful—so much open space, trees everywhere, and even a pool (yes, people do end up jumping in by the end of the night!).
There’s also a fire pit down by the lake, which is the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset with a drink in hand. The whole property feels really private, like you’re in your own little world for the weekend.
This isn’t your typical wedding venue where a bunch of events happen at once and guests are stuck in a reception hall or a small patio. Here, you get the full estate to yourselves—with the whole staff focused entirely on your day. It’s all about having the space, the attention, and the experience just for you and your people.
Rushmore Estate has this quiet charm that really sticks with you. It’s beautiful, unique, and has everything you need to make the day feel personal and unforgettable. It’s also just over an hour from NYC, which makes it easy for out-of-town guests. If you’re looking for a venue that feels special, relaxed, and full of character, this might be the one.
Capacity: up to 250 guests
Price: starting $16,000
Addressee:14 Castleton Dr, Highland Mills, NY 10930
https://rushmoreestate.com/weddings/
L'Orangerie
L’Orangerie is such a great spot for a wedding. The Victorian-style greenhouse is a standout — glass walls all around, so the whole space is filled with natural light. It feels open, calm, and tucked away, like your own little garden escape. The chandeliers hanging from the ceiling add just the right touch of elegance without making it feel stiff or overly formal.
The main house is just as nice. It’s a comfortable place to stay, and the light in the morning makes it ideal for getting ready. Everything about it feels relaxed and easy, which really helps set the tone for the day.
The whole venue has a peaceful, almost surreal vibe — in the best way. Between the light, the greenery, and how well the space is designed, it’s the kind of place that just makes sense for a wedding. Honestly, it’s one of those spots that makes you think, “Yeah, I get why people want to get married here.”
Even though it’s inspired by French orangeries, the mix of natural beauty, classic style, and laid-back charm gives it a Mediterranean feel — like something you’d find in a quiet corner of Italy.
If you book this venue, make sure to take full advantage of everything it offers — the pool, patio, cottage, ballroom, and the upstairs rooms. L’Orangerie is the perfect blend of nature and simple elegance. Highly recommend.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests
Price: Starting at $10,000
Addressee: 3725 County Route 26 Greenville, NY 12083
Angel Orensanz Foundation – A Hidden Gem Wedding Venue in NYC
If you're searching for a truly one-of-a-kind wedding venue in New York City, the Angel Orensanz Foundation should be at the very top of your list. Tucked away in the Lower East Side, this venue is a jaw-dropping surprise – unassuming from the outside, but once you step through its doors, you're transported into a breathtaking space inspired by none other than the Sistine Chapel in Rome.
Originally built in 1849, this former synagogue was purchased by artist Angel Orensanz and transformed into a working studio, art space, and architectural landmark. Today, it stands as a romantic, eclectic, and historic venue full of gothic charm and creative energy – perfect for couples looking to avoid the typical wedding factory vibe of banquet halls, ultra-modern spaces, or ballrooms.
The Space:
Main Floor: 7,000 sq ft, ideal for ceremonies and receptions. Seats 250–260 guests for dinner and dancing, or up to 300 for an informal setup.
Balcony: 3,500 sq ft, often used for cocktail hour, welcome drinks, or traditional elements like a bedeken. Can host an additional 200 people.
Basement: Includes a catering kitchen and a small suite for getting ready.
This venue is a dream for anyone who loves rich history, artistic ambiance, and visual drama. The lighting system is especially important here—it brings the soaring arches and vintage textures to life, creating a mood that’s nothing short of cinematic. Think historic meets artsy meets romantic—with just the right amount of gothic flair.
While it’s not a literal Italian villa or palazzo, it’s absolutely fair to say that Angel Orensanz has an Italy-inspired feel—especially when it comes to the architecture and ambiance. The design is reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel in Rome, which brings a romantic, old-world European vibe that works beautifully for weddings.
Highly recommend this venue for those who value character, creativity, and unforgettable photos. It’s not just a place to host a wedding—it’s a piece of NYC art history.
Price: Starting at $15,000
Addressee:172 Norfolk St, New York, NY 10002
http://www.orensanzevents.com/events_space.html
Coindre Hall
Coindre Hall is an incredible place to get married. From the moment I saw it, I was blown away by how beautiful and unique it is. The grounds are picture-perfect, especially in the fall, and the inside feels like a charming, historic castle with an Italian-style elegance that sets it apart. Every room has so much character and warmth.
I have to add that the venue is not only beautiful, but also incredibly well-run — and a big part of that is thanks to John, the maître d’. He’s famous for making everything run like clockwork. He’s kind, professional, and always one step ahead. From the smallest details to the big-picture timeline, he handles it all with ease. He’s the kind of person who answers every question, solves problems before they even come up, and somehow makes the whole day feel effortless. During cocktail hour, he even makes sure every guest has a seat — it’s the kind of thoughtful touch that really stands out.
The food here is absolutely delicious, from cocktail hour to dinner. The service is flawless. One of the things I really love is that the dining and dancing areas are in separate rooms. It creates a perfect flow—guests enjoy a relaxed dinner and then head to the dance floor when they’re ready to celebrate. The setup works so well and keeps the energy just right all night long.
Guests will love wandering through the mansion, taking photos, and enjoying all the little rooms and details. You could add a few personal decorations, but honestly, the space is already so beautiful, it doesn’t need much.
There are a couple of small things—like no chairs in the dance room, which makes it harder for older guests to hang out there, and only two single-stall bathrooms on the event level. But even with that, the experience is so wonderful, it’s hardly a concern.
Coindre Hall is something special. The beauty, the food, the service, and the warmth from the staff make the whole day unforgettable. I’m so happy to celebrate here, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests
Price: starting $12,995
Addressee: 101 Browns Road
Huntington, NY 11743
https://www.lessings.com/corporate/weddings/venue/chateau-at-coindre-hall
Looking for a photographer for your Hudson Valley/Catskills NY wedding?
If you’re planning a Hudson Valley/Catskills NY wedding, reach out. I am Leo- photographer and videographer who capture proposals, elopements, and weddings. With 10+ years in the business, I have learned that weddings are the ultimate blend of chaos and excitement, and I would not have it any other way. I love that I live in this amazing part of New York. There are many beautiful places for weddings of any size or type, including charming small towns and wineries. You'll find venues with historic charm and elegant antique decor, as well as hotels and country clubs with great views of the valley. There are many options here for you to fall in love with. Let's work together to make your big day exactly how you want it, and I'll make sure to capture all the special moments!
