Venue Spotlight: Castle Hill Inn
As a wedding videographer based in Rhode Island, I've had the privilege of filming countless beautiful celebrations across our picturesque state. However, there's one venue that never fails to take my breath away: Castle Hill Inn in Newport. This stunning location has become a favorite among couples looking for a truly magical setting for their big day, and for good reason. Today, I want to share with you why Castle Hill Inn is such a special place and why it's a dream come true for both couples and videographers alike.
A Glimpse into Newport's Gilded Age
When I first drive up to Castle Hill Inn, I'm always struck by its grandeur. This historic Relais & Châteaux property sits on 40 magical acres overlooking Narragansett Bay, evoking the opulence of Newport's Gilded Age while offering all the modern amenities today's couples desire. As a videographer, I'm immediately inspired by the possibilities this venue presents.
The Agassiz Mansion
The heart of Castle Hill Inn is the Agassiz Mansion, a stunning Victorian-era building that serves as the perfect backdrop for romantic shots. When I film couples getting ready in the mansion's beautifully appointed rooms, I feel like I'm capturing a piece of history. The hardwood floors, antique furnishings, and gas-jet fireplaces all add to the timeless atmosphere that translates so beautifully on camera.
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Diverse Filming Locations
One of the things I love most about Castle Hill Inn is the variety of filming locations available within the property. This diversity allows me to create a wedding video that truly tells the story of each unique couple.
The Lighthouse
Standing majestically at the water's edge, the Castle Hill Lighthouse is an iconic spot for intimate ceremonies. I've filmed some of the most touching vows here, with the Atlantic Ocean serving as a dramatic backdrop. The natural light at sunset is particularly magical, creating a warm glow that makes for absolutely stunning footage.
The Chalet Terrace
For larger celebrations, the Chalet Terrace is a favorite spot. The iconic Sperry tents pay homage to Newport's maritime heritage while offering a touch of elegance. As a videographer, I love capturing the way the light filters through the tent's canvas, creating a soft, romantic ambiance. And let's not forget about those panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay – they make for some truly breathtaking establishing shots.
The Lawn
There's something quintessentially New England about filming on Castle Hill Inn's expansive lawn. Whether it's capturing guests mingling during cocktail hour or filming the newlyweds stealing a quiet moment together, the lush green grass and the blue waters beyond create a perfect natural frame.
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Culinary Delights
As much as I love capturing the visual aspects of a wedding, I also believe that a great wedding video should evoke all the senses. At Castle Hill Inn, the culinary experience is second to none, providing me with plenty of mouthwatering shots to include in my films.
Aurelia
The inn's main restaurant, Aurelia, offers a six-course tasting menu that's as much a visual treat as it is a culinary one. When filming wedding receptions here, I make sure to get plenty of close-ups of the beautifully plated dishes. The way the chefs incorporate seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients always impresses me and adds a unique touch to each wedding video.
The Lawn Terrace
For couples who prefer a more relaxed dining experience, the Lawn Terrace offers stunning views along with delectable cuisine. I love capturing the joy on guests' faces as they dine al fresco, with the sun setting over Narragansett Bay in the background.
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Accommodations
What sets Castle Hill Inn apart from many other wedding venues is its range of accommodations. With 33 unique rooms and suites spread across the property, couples and their guests can truly make the inn their home for the duration of the celebrations.
Beach Houses and Cottages
Some of my favorite "getting ready" sequences have been filmed in the beach houses and cottages. The cozy, coastal-inspired decor provides a relaxed atmosphere that helps couples feel at ease in front of the camera. Plus, the proximity to the beach allows for some gorgeous pre-wedding shots of the wedding party strolling along the shore.
Harbor Houses
I always get a little thrill when I film in the Harbor Houses, knowing that they were once a favorite hideaway of Grace Kelly. There's something so romantic about capturing a modern love story in a place with such a glamorous history.
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The Castle Hill Inn Experience
What truly sets Castle Hill Inn apart, in my experience, is the level of service and attention to detail. As a videographer, I appreciate how seamlessly the staff works to ensure everything runs smoothly. This allows me to focus on capturing all the special moments without worrying about logistics.
Working with the Event Planning Team
The event planning team at Castle Hill Inn deserves a special mention. Their expertise and dedication make my job so much easier. They understand the importance of timing and lighting for videography, and they're always willing to work with me to ensure we get the best possible footage.
The David Tutera Luxury Experience
For couples looking for an extra touch of luxury, Castle Hill Inn offers the David Tutera Luxury Experience. As a videographer, I'm always excited when I hear a couple has chosen this option. David's artistic vision and attention to detail create absolutely stunning events that translate beautifully to film.
Capturing the Essence of Castle Hill Inn
As I reflect on all the weddings I've filmed at Castle Hill Inn, I'm struck by how each one has been uniquely beautiful. Whether it's an intimate ceremony by the lighthouse or a grand celebration under the Sperry tents, there's a magic to this place that comes through in every frame.
From the moment the couple arrives to the final dance under the stars, Castle Hill Inn provides countless opportunities for capturing love stories. The changing light throughout the day, from the soft morning glow to the golden hour before sunset, offers a natural progression that adds depth and dimension to my films.
But beyond the physical beauty of the place, what I strive to capture is the feeling of being at Castle Hill Inn. It's the sense of history and timelessness, the joy of celebration, and the beginning of a new chapter in a couple's life. It's in the laughter echoing across the lawn, the tender glances exchanged during the first dance, and the quiet moments of reflection by the water's edge.
As a wedding videographer, my goal is always to create a film that not only documents the day but also captures its essence – the emotions, the atmosphere, the little details that make each wedding unique. At Castle Hill Inn, this task becomes a true pleasure. The venue itself tells a story, one of romance, elegance, and timeless beauty, providing the perfect backdrop for the love stories I'm privileged to film.
So, if you're considering Castle Hill Inn for your wedding, know that you're choosing more than just a beautiful location. You're selecting a place where memories are made, where love is celebrated, and where your story will be beautifully told – both in the moment and for years to come through the magic of video.
As for me, I'll continue to look forward to every opportunity I have to capture love at Castle Hill Inn, knowing that each wedding will bring new moments of beauty, joy, and romance to immortalize on film.
