Venue Spotlight: Glen Manor House
As a Rhode Island-based wedding videographer, I've had the privilege of capturing countless love stories in some of the most breathtaking venues our beautiful state has to offer. But there's one place that never fails to leave me in awe, no matter how many times I visit: Glen Manor House. Today, I want to take you on a journey through this magnificent venue, sharing my personal experiences and insights to help you envision your dream wedding in this historic paradise.
A Glimpse into History
From Farm to French Chateau
Nestled on the banks of the Sakonnet River, Glen Manor House is more than just a wedding venue; it's a living piece of history. The story of this magnificent estate began in 1882 when H.A.C. Taylor, a wealthy businessman from New York City, started purchasing farmland in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. What started as a 111-acre purchase grew into a sprawling 700-acre estate known as Glen Farm.
The transformation from farmland to the French chateau-style manor we see today is a testament to the Taylor family's vision and the talent of renowned architect John Russell Pope. Pope, famous for designing the Jefferson Memorial in Washington D.C., drew inspiration from the Petit Trianon at Versailles to create this architectural masterpiece.
A Legacy of Love and Loss
As I walk the grounds of Glen Manor House, I'm often struck by the poignant history that seems to whisper from every cornerstone. The house, completed in 1923, was more than just a summer retreat for the Taylor family; it was a tribute to their son, Moses Taylor, who lost his life during World War I in Vigneulles, France. The French chateau style of the house is believed to be inspired by the chateau near where young Moses fell, making Glen Manor House not just a venue, but a monument to love and sacrifice.
The Perfect Canvas for Your Love Story
Unparalleled Natural Beauty
As a videographer, I'm always on the lookout for those perfect shots that will make your wedding video truly magical. At Glen Manor House, those moments are abundant. The estate's location on the banks of the Sakonnet River provides a stunning natural backdrop that changes with the seasons. In spring, the lush gardens burst with color, creating a romantic setting for your vows. Summer brings warm breezes off the river, perfect for an outdoor ceremony. Fall paints the surrounding landscape in rich, warm hues that complement any wedding palette. And in winter, the stately manor stands proud against a crisp, clear sky, offering cozy elegance for intimate celebrations.
Architectural Splendor
Every time I set up my camera at Glen Manor House, I'm in awe of the architectural details that make this venue so special. The French chateau-style exterior is impressive on its own, but it's the interior that truly takes my breath away. Grand staircases, ornate fireplaces, and intricate moldings provide endless opportunities for capturing those picture-perfect moments. Whether it's a bride descending the stairs to meet her groom or a tender moment shared by the fireplace, the house itself becomes a character in your love story.
Check out these other great venues:
Harbor Island Resort
Regatta Place
OceanCliff
The Bohlin
The Chanler
Hammetts Hotel
Aldrich Mansion
Castle Hill Inn
Blithewold Mansion
Hammond Castle
Boston Harbor Hotel
Longwood Venues
Harbor View Hotel
Planning Your Glen Manor House Wedding
Capacity and Seasons
One of the questions I'm often asked by couples considering Glen Manor House is about capacity. The venue can accommodate up to 175 guests from mid-May through mid-October, making it perfect for those dreamy summer and early fall weddings. For events from November through April, the capacity varies depending on the type of event, but the intimate setting of the house lends itself beautifully to smaller, more cozy winter weddings.
Exclusive Use and Timing
What I love about filming at Glen Manor House is that they host only one event per day. This means you and your guests have the entire estate to yourselves, allowing for a truly immersive experience. Functions can be held for any five-hour period between 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 p.m., giving you flexibility in planning your perfect day. As a tip from a videographer's perspective, I always recommend taking advantage of the "golden hour" just before sunset for some truly magical footage.
Pricing and Availability
It's important to note that Glen Manor House is in high demand, especially during the peak wedding season. As of January 2024, Saturday weddings during the high season (mid-May through mid-October) are priced at $13,000, with lower rates available for other days of the week and during the off-season. There's an additional charge of $1,500 if you choose to have your ceremony at the Manor, which in my opinion, is well worth it for the stunning backdrop it provides.
The Glen Manor House Experience
Culinary Delights
One aspect of Glen Manor House weddings that always impresses me (and makes for great b-roll footage!) is the catering. The venue has an exclusive relationship with Russell Morin Catering & Events, a company with over 100 years of experience in delivering exceptional culinary experiences. From what I've observed at numerous weddings, their team goes above and beyond to bring each couple's vision to life with creative menus and flawless service.
Setting the Scene
When it comes to the aesthetics of your wedding, Glen Manor House offers a variety of options. They have white garden chairs and Gold Chiavari Ballroom chairs available for rent, along with a selection of dining and cocktail tables. However, you're not restricted to these options. I've seen couples bring in alternative rentals to create truly unique and personalized settings. As a videographer, I always get excited when couples think outside the box with their decor, as it adds another layer of visual interest to the final video.
Capturing Your Glen Manor House Wedding
A Videographer's Dream
From a professional standpoint, Glen Manor House is a videographer's dream come true. The variety of settings within the estate allows for incredible versatility in filming. Here are some of my favorite spots to capture:
The Grand Staircase: Perfect for those dramatic entrance shots.
The Gardens: Ideal for romantic couple portraits and candid guest interactions.
The Sakonnet River Backdrop: Stunning for ceremony footage and golden hour shots.
The Ornate Interiors: Great for intimate moments and detail shots of decor.
Tips for Picture-Perfect Moments
Based on my experience filming countless weddings at Glen Manor House, here are a few tips to ensure you get the most out of your wedding video:
Plan for Golden Hour: Schedule some time around sunset for couple portraits. The light at this time is simply magical.
Use the Entire Estate: Don't limit yourself to one area. The diversity of settings allows for a more dynamic and interesting wedding film.
Consider a First Look: The manor offers several picturesque locations for a private first look moment that always translates beautifully on camera.
Embrace the History: Incorporate elements of the estate's rich history into your day. These details add depth and character to your wedding story.
A Timeless Venue for Timeless Memories
As I reflect on all the weddings I've had the honor of filming at Glen Manor House, I'm struck by how each one has been uniquely beautiful. This venue has a way of adapting to each couple's vision while maintaining its timeless elegance. Whether you're dreaming of a grandiose affair or an intimate gathering, Glen Manor House provides the perfect backdrop for your love story.
From the moment you drive up the winding driveway, greeted by manicured lawns and the stately manor, to the last dance under the stars with the river whispering in the background, every moment at Glen Manor House is infused with romance and possibility. As a videographer, my goal is always to capture not just the events of the day, but the feelings, the atmosphere, and the little moments that make your wedding uniquely yours. At Glen Manor House, those moments are abundant, waiting to be woven into the fabric of your own love story.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a wedding venue that combines rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unparalleled elegance, look no further than Glen Manor House. It's not just a location; it's an experience that you and your guests will cherish for a lifetime. And as someone who has had the privilege of capturing many love stories within its walls and gardens, I can assure you that a wedding at Glen Manor House is nothing short of magical.
