Planning the Perfect Fall Wedding in Hampshire County: Part Three
The Mossy Apothecary
Photo by Lynne Graves
There are few things more beautiful than fall in New England. You’re engaged. You’re in love. And now you face the daunting task — of planning the wedding. Sure, you can be like everyone else and get married in May or June. OR, you can go the other way. Plan for fall instead of summer. Work with saturated reds and yellows instead of pastels. Wear the dress with long sleeves, the three piece suit made of wool, and the flower crown made of begonias.
In this three-part series, we’ll show you that in Hampshire County, we have the makings of the perfect fall wedding. The only problem? We’re popular. So take a gander at the amenities we have on offer, and then get to planning. Fall 2020 has a nice ring to it, don’t ya think?
Welcome to Part Three: How to Keep the Bridal Party Happy
In Part One, we gave you the rundown on venues, illustrating the incredible range of options you have in the Pioneer Valley. In Part Two, we gave you some fabulous options for food, flowers, and photographers. In Part Three, we’re rounding out our series with some tried and true strategies for keeping the wedding party happy. You may be thinking, “Hey! It’s my wedding. Why am I worried about my bridesmaids and groomsmen?” So glad you asked! They’re holding the keys to your perfect wedding weekend. They’re in charge of the rings. They’re running interference between all of your feuding relatives. And in some cases, they’re traveling from some faraway corner of the world to be with you. Treat those superstars right. Give ‘em the props they deserve. And do it in major style in the place we all love best — Hampshire County, of course.
Pamper in Style
Ok, so what’s the number one way to keep your wedding party happy (and thereby, HELPFUL) after their long journey? Give ‘em the VIP treatment. Book a group spa session at the Mossy Apothecary in Southampton, and try out the salt scrub, organic facial, or CBD-infused massage. Another amazing option for pampering your people? Glow Beauty Bar in Florence. Take your ladies and/or gents for makeup and wedding-ready hair-dos, or book some time the day before for a sauna and spray tan. You’re heading into one of the biggest parties of your life. Pamper your people so they’re ready to rock!
Get Active
Another pre-party activity that will do everyone some good? Exercise. Those who have traveled to get to you will be thankful for the opportunity to stretch their legs and breathe some fresh air. If nature is calling, we have hiking galore. Do you and your besties prefer art with your outside time? Stop by Art in the Orchard and enjoy the walking sculpture trail, drink the world famous (probably) apple cider slushie, and grab a bag of fresh-off-the-tree apples to enjoy all weekend long. If you’d like to go on a real adventure together, rent a bike from Valley Bike Share and hit the bike path that winds through our cities and towns. Finally, if inside fun is more your speed, check out the 24,000 square feet of climbing terrain at Central Rock Gym in Hadley. A wedding is a marathon — don’t forget to train!
Visit our Vineyards and Breweries
Once you’ve pampered your party and engaged in some active bonding, the most obvious next step is to try out one (or more) of our local libations. Enjoy a glass of wine while you take in the vistas at Glendale Ridge, Mineral Hills Winery, or Black Birch Vineyard. Pull up a stool and reminisce over a beer or cider at Abandoned Building Brewery, Progression Brewing Company, New City Brewery, or BLDG8. If you’re getting married here, we’re probably preaching to the choir. But we’ve got the goods and we like to share the love.
Do it for the ‘Gram!
Obviously, if there are no photos, it didn’t happen! And before the big day, you’ll need some practice posing. So grab your crew and take a tour of Hampshire County’s most Instagrammable spots. Not only will you see a few of the most beautiful, iconic, and special places around here, but you’ll also capture some amazing memories/photos/Insta stories with your very favorite people.
Now do you believe us? Can’t you see? Hampshire County is everything you’re looking for in a fabulous fall wedding. We know it’s a big decision, but at least put us in the running. If you promise to think about it, we promise to put our best foot forward.