Venue Spotlight: OceanCliff
As a Rhode Island-based wedding videographer, I've had the pleasure of capturing countless beautiful moments at various venues across the state. However, there's one location that never fails to take my breath away: OceanCliff. This stunning estate, nestled on the picturesque coast of Newport, has become one of my favorite spots to film weddings. Today, I want to share my insights and experiences about this magnificent venue, hoping to give you a glimpse into why OceanCliff is such a special place for couples to say "I do."
A Glimpse into History
Before we dive into the details of what makes OceanCliff an exceptional wedding venue, let's take a moment to appreciate its rich history. As a videographer, I'm always fascinated by the stories behind the places I film, and OceanCliff's background is truly captivating.
The property we now know as OceanCliff has a history dating back to 1864 when the original Bronson Villa was built by the renowned architectural firm Peabody & Stearns. If that name sounds familiar, it's because they're the same talented architects behind other Newport landmarks like the original Breakers and Doris Duke's Rough Point.
However, the OceanCliff we see today isn't that original structure. In 1892, the estate was purchased by Gaun M. Hutton, a wealthy industrialist known for building the Trans-Siberian railroad for Czar Nicholas. Hutton and his wife decided to raze the wooden villa and construct the magnificent stone mansion that now graces the property.
For decades, OceanCliff remained a private summer home, hosting lavish parties and society affairs. It wasn't until 1954 that it was sold by the Hutton family and later converted into the oceanfront retreat we know today. As I film couples starting their new lives together at OceanCliff, I can't help but feel a connection to all the stories and memories these walls have witnessed over the years.
The Perfect Setting for Your Perfect Day
Breathtaking Views
One of the first things that strikes me every time I arrive at OceanCliff is the sheer beauty of its location. Situated on 10 acres of rolling lawns with panoramic ocean views, this venue offers a backdrop that seems almost too perfect to be real. As a videographer, I'm always looking for those picture-perfect moments, and at OceanCliff, they're around every corner.
The estate's position overlooking Narragansett Bay provides a constantly changing canvas of colors and light. From the soft pastels of sunrise to the warm golden hues of sunset, the sky and water create a natural lightbox that enhances every shot. I've filmed ceremonies where the bridge of vows was punctuated by the cry of seagulls and the gentle lapping of waves – creating an ambiance that no artificial sound system could ever replicate.
Versatile Spaces
What I love about OceanCliff is its versatility. The venue offers a variety of spaces that can accommodate weddings of different sizes and styles. The Grand Ballroom is the showstopper, with its capacity to host up to 200 guests for dinner and dancing. The room's large windows offer unobstructed views of the Atlantic, creating a backdrop that never fails to impress in my videos.
For more intimate gatherings, OceanCliff offers several smaller rooms. These spaces are perfect for rehearsal dinners, small ceremonies, or as getting-ready rooms for the wedding party. As a videographer, I appreciate the variety of settings this provides, allowing me to capture different moods and moments throughout the day.
Outdoor Options
While the indoor spaces at OceanCliff are stunning, it's the outdoor areas that truly set this venue apart. The manicured lawns rolling down to the water's edge create a picturesque setting for ceremonies. I've filmed couples exchanging vows with the vast expanse of the ocean behind them, and the results are always breathtaking.
One of my favorite spots to capture is the adjoining outdoor patio. It's the perfect place for cocktail hour, allowing guests to mingle and enjoy the ocean breeze. The natural light and relaxed atmosphere make for some wonderful candid shots.
For those looking for something a bit different, the Upper Deck at OceanCliff is a fantastic option. Covered with a 40' x 60' tent, this space offers sweeping views of the Newport Bridge and Narragansett Bay. I've filmed some incredible rehearsal dinners and casual lobster boils here, with the setting sun creating a magical atmosphere.
A Videographer's Dream
Natural Light
As a videographer, lighting is everything, and OceanCliff provides an abundance of natural light that's a joy to work with. The large windows in the Grand Ballroom allow sunlight to stream in during daytime events, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. As the sun sets, the room is bathed in a soft, golden glow that's absolutely magical on camera.
Even on overcast days, the diffused light coming off the water creates a soft, flattering illumination that's perfect for filming. It's rare to find a venue where I rarely need to rely on artificial lighting, but OceanCliff is one of those gems.
Unique Backdrops
One of the challenges (and joys) of wedding videography is finding unique and interesting backdrops for shots. At OceanCliff, I'm spoiled for choice. The historic architecture of the building itself provides a beautiful backdrop, with its stone facades and elegant details.
The grounds offer even more options. I've captured stunning footage of couples walking hand-in-hand along the rocky shoreline, stealing a quiet moment amidst the excitement of their big day. The perfectly manicured gardens provide splashes of color and texture that add depth and interest to my shots.
And then there's the ocean itself. Whether it's calm and serene or wild and dramatic, the ever-changing seascape provides a dynamic backdrop that brings life and movement to every frame.
Check out these other great venues:
The Bohlin
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Hammetts Hotel
Aldrich Mansion
Castle Hill Inn
Blithewold Mansion
Hammond Castle
Boston Harbor Hotel
Longwood Venues
Harbor View Hotel
The OceanCliff Experience
Attention to Detail
What sets OceanCliff apart, in my experience, is their attention to detail. From the moment you arrive, it's clear that every aspect of the venue has been carefully considered. The staff's professionalism and dedication to making each event perfect is evident in everything they do.
As a vendor, I appreciate how smoothly events run at OceanCliff. Their experienced team anticipates needs before they arise, allowing me to focus on capturing the day without worrying about logistics. This level of service extends to the couples and their guests, ensuring that everyone can relax and enjoy the celebration.
Culinary Delights
While my focus is on capturing the visual aspects of the day, I can't ignore the impact that great food has on a wedding. OceanCliff's reputation for world-class cuisine is well-deserved. I've seen guests' faces light up as they're served beautifully presented dishes that taste as good as they look.
The culinary team at OceanCliff is adept at catering to a variety of tastes and dietary requirements. Whether it's a formal plated dinner or a more casual buffet, the quality and presentation of the food always impresses. And let's not forget the cocktails – the bartenders at OceanCliff know how to mix a mean drink, which always helps to get the party started!
Seasonal Magic
Summer Splendor
Summer weddings at OceanCliff are what many couples dream of. The lush green lawns, vibrant flowers, and sparkling ocean create a scene straight out of a fairytale. I love capturing the joy on guests' faces as they sip cocktails on the patio, feeling the warm breeze and taking in the spectacular views.
Evening summer weddings are particularly magical. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of pinks, purples, and oranges, providing a romantic backdrop for those all-important couple shots. And there's nothing quite like filming a first dance under the stars, with the sound of the waves in the background.
Winter Wonderland
While summer weddings at OceanCliff are popular, I have a soft spot for winter celebrations at this venue. There's something incredibly romantic about the estate in winter, with its roaring fireplaces and cozy interiors.
OceanCliff's Snowflake Wedding Package is a fantastic option for couples looking for a more intimate celebration. The package includes some great perks, like a complimentary ceremony package and discounted guest rooms. As a videographer, I love the warm, intimate atmosphere of winter weddings here. The soft glow of candlelight, the sparkle of frost on the windows, and the contrast of the warm interiors with the wild winter sea outside create a truly magical setting.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on all the weddings I've filmed at OceanCliff, I'm struck by how each one has been unique, yet all have been infused with the magic of this special place. From intimate winter gatherings to grand summer celebrations, OceanCliff provides a canvas upon which couples can paint their perfect day.
What makes OceanCliff truly special, in my opinion, is its ability to feel both grand and intimate at the same time. It's a place where history and modernity blend seamlessly, where natural beauty meets human craftsmanship, and where every couple can find their own piece of wedding day perfection.
So, if you're considering OceanCliff for your wedding, I can wholeheartedly say that from a videographer's perspective, you're making an excellent choice. The memories you create here will be beautiful, and I can assure you that they will translate beautifully to film, providing you with a treasured keepsake of your special day for years to come.
Remember, your wedding day flies by in a blur of emotions and moments. As a videographer, it's my job to capture those moments so you can relive them again and again. And at a venue like OceanCliff, those moments are guaranteed to be nothing short of spectacular.
