Davenport Avenue - New Rochelle's "Wedding Row"

The view from Beckwith Pointe http://www.beckwithpointe.com

New Rochelle has been called the "Queen City of the Sound" and the spectacular views of Long Island Sound from along the waterfront are certainly fit for Royalty. New Rochelle's Davenport Avenue has a row of lovely locations a bit reminiscent of Newport RI and the elaborate "Summer Cottages" of the 19th century American Aristocracy.

Church Street leads from the mainland section of New Rochelle, onto a peninsula that juts out into Long Island Sound. This section of the city includes a recreational area called Davenport Park and has the feel of a resort community. This impression is enhanced by the row of handsome clubs along the waterfront.

All of these beautiful locations host weddings and I have enjoyed playing the harp for ceremonies and cocktail hours in each of them over the years. They are all well worth your consideration. However, each of them has a unique character. Here are some of my impressions. Be sure to visit each web-site or, better yet, take a ride down Davenport Avenue and visit each location.

The Surf Club

Church Street dead ends at Davenport Avenue and, directly in front of you is the impressive Surf Club.

http://surfclub.nycweddings.biz/

The word opulent perfectly describes this magnificent location. The grand staircase in the lobby, crystal chandeliers, lavish ballroom and expansive terrace all create a luxurious setting. The food is exquisite and the service superb. There are several venues for ceremonies both indoors and out. The Surf Club is the perfect choice for the couple who appreciates luxury.

The Davenport Club

As you turn right and continue down Davenport Avenue, the next location, at number 400, is the Davenport Club.

http://www.davenportclub.com/

If old World charm and traditional elegance are your style, The Davenport Club is the place for you. This beautiful 1888 Mansion feels like a private home as your guests enter the foyer and enjoy cocktails in the library. Your ceremony can take place in front of the wood-burning fireplace or in the gazebo overlooking the sound. Graciousness abounds as your hosts, the Rossi family see to your every need.

Greentree Country Club

Another mansion designed by the renowned architect, Stanford White in the early 1900s, is next as you continue on Davenport Avenue. At number 538, Greetree Country Club with its classical high ceilings, glistening chandeliers, shimmering marble floors and an abundance of floor to ceiling windows offers luxury and refinement for the discerning bride and groom.

http://www.greentreeclub.com/greentree/

At Greentree, the staff focuses on "providing an unparalleled level of hospitality and seamless experience". They pride themselves on exceeding your expectations.

The V.I.P. Club

If you love sleek style and an atmosphere in which the likes of Frank Sinatra or Harry Connick Jr would feel right at home, the Swanky V.I.P. Club is for you.

http://www.vipcountryclub.com/

From it's elegant entry to its stylish interiours the V.I.P. is the epitomy of urbane sophistication. Your entire event will be handled with savoir faire and finesse.

Beckwith Pointe

Last but definitely not least,  At the very end of the peninsula is Beautiful Beckwith Point.

http://www.beckwithpointe.com/

I love to enter the lobby at Beckwith Pointe where a painting of a harp graces the wall. Every room in this stylishly decorated facility is situated to take full advantage of the spectacular views of the Sound. Floor to ceiling windows allow your guests to enjoy them to the fullest. The attentive staff will see to your every need.

A wedding ceremony on the roof top terrace at Beckwith Pointe is the ultimate in romance. 

Plus Two - Two more great New Rochelle Locations

Glen Island Harbour Club

Near by Glen Island is the site of the Glen Island Harbour Club. Famed as the Glen Island Casino during the Big Band era, the Glen Island Harbour Club is a perfect spot for a glamorous wedding. 

 http://glenisland-harbourclub.com/

Your guests are ushered to the top tier where a circular chapel made almost entirely sparkling glass can be the setting for your ceremony. The expansive views are the only decoration really needed. Alternately, your ceremony can take place in the tent outside where your guests can enjoy the open air without having to worry about too much sun or a passing shower. The opulent decor of all the rooms will make your wedding reception an event to remember. 

The Fountainhead

http://www.thefountainhead-ny.com/

At  55 Quaker Ridge Road, the Fountainhead is regarded as one of Westchester's premier wedding facilities. At its dazzling entry, your guests are welcomed by uniformed doormen who usher them into the elegant interior with its marble and granite floors, sparkling chandeliers and gold leaf decoration. 

In addition to ceremonies in the upstairs wedding chapel, it is a particular pleasure for me to  play for cocktail hours in the soaring glass atrium where I am situated in a balcony overlooking the glamourous festivities. 

Here the food is rightfully called cuisine and the white glove service continental.