New England boasts endless themes for a dream wedding – envisioning ocean breezes or historic charm? Rustic elegance or a sleek modern vibe? There are so many options that it’s impossible to choose. Good news! Couples tying the knot in Cohasset don’t have to decide.

“What makes Cohasset unique is that it offers a real, authentic mix of options for a destination wedding,” says Pierre Prat, vice president of venues at The Catered Affair, which operates top properties in the town. “Between the Red Lion Inn with really cozy historic charm in the heart of the village and Atlantica’s sleek, modern vibe, which feels like it’s floating on the harbor, the combination is unlike anywhere else.”

Indeed, the picture-perfect village 40 minutes south of Boston mixes quaint New England town with a robust array of facilities in a way that is available in few other places. Think about it – a carefully preserved historic inn echoing with 300 years of history just a two-minute drive or a charming 10-minute walk from a working harbor where lobster boats still unload their catches daily.

Pratt says that once couples learn about the possibilities, they want to jump right in. “Brides become extremely involved when planning a Cohasset wedding,” he says. “More than I’ve seen anywhere else because they are inspired by the venues to bring their own special touch.”

Here are just a few ideas – feel free to mix and match.

Rehearsal Dinner: Let your guests experience Cohasset’s working harbor right away with a special meal over the water at Atlantica, where you can opt for a private room that feels like a yacht floating directly on the water. Or pour on the cozy New England charm at Red Lion Inn, where the fully enclosed Garden Room, tucked into the inn’s tavern, evokes another era, with exposed beams and the scent of centuries of woodsmoke lingering in the air.

For a secret speakeasy vibe, book the Cave — Red Lion’s underground club — for dinner or a fabulous afterparty.

Ceremony: Dreaming of the great outdoors? The Red Lion Inn’s winding walkways, covered bridges, and patios are resplendent for a small garden wedding. For couples who crave ocean views, the spaces at Atlantica are enclosed by floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Cohasset Harbor. For indoor space, consider the rustic elegance of the soaring Barn at the Red Lion, which mixes crystal chandeliers with natural wood interiors and beams, creating a canvas for anything your heart desires.

Reception: Stick with the ocean theme by entertaining guests at Atlantica, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and light bright décor just waiting for a special touch. If cozy and rustic is called for, the Barn at Red Lion was custom-built for weddings, with multiple bars and multiple levels to carry guests from cocktails to the last dance.

Farewell Brunch: Of course, any of these venues can serve as the perfect send-off for guests, but for a classic high-tea vibe, consider the Hillside House at the Red Lion Inn. Set above the grounds, with windows inviting in greenery at every turn, it offers a relaxed ambiance to unwind from the festivities. This newly-restored space is also perfect for an engagement party, bridal shower, or anniversary celebration.

With 15 suites at The Red Lion Inn and other area hotels or Airbnb options, your guests can have a memorable weekend stay in this charming South Shore town. For ideas of things to do during your stay, see 15 Things to Do In and Around Cohasset.

 

Click here to start planning your South Shore wedding at a historic venue.