The Best Wedding Vendors in Essex, CT

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1000+ Wedding Vendors in Essex, CT

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat 
Rating: 5.0 (3 reviews)
Essex, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 230 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor

We make our beautiful facilities, equipment, and catering staff available for weddings, reunions, meetings, and other events. We have four beautiful indoor/outdoor event spaces to choose from, all different and unique in their own way!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Space for a large guest list

Venue considerations

  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Not wheelchair accessible
I have loved coming to the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat museum since I was a child so when my husband and I got engaged, we knew we had to get married here. It was such a magical venue and was reasonably priced. They truly don't try to nickel-and-dime you like a lot of other wedding venues, they just want you to have a good experience. The bridal suite was a beautifully decorated air-conditioned train car. We also decided to add on a roundtrip steam train ride down to the CT river and a steamboat cruise as our cocktail hour (honestly didn't cost as much as you'd think...). Our reception was inside the hall and was perfectly air-conditioned and decorated. We did a buffet option and the food was good! If you decide to get married outside, just remember that it IS an active train yard so make sure your officiant has a microphone. Meredith and Tyler were very easy to work with while planning the event. I highly recommend getting married here. Oh, and your photos will look INSANE.
Kayla M., a year ago
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Mystic River Entertainment 
Rating: 5.0 (63 reviews)
  • DJ
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Uniquely crafted music and purposeful lighting can empower you to create the most incredible and memorable night. Let me help you make that happen. Mystic River Entertainment is a modern DJ entertainment and lighting company for wedding and private events.

Awarded Best of Zola
Jeff was amazing! My husband and I got married at the Branford House in Groton CT July 2025 and hired Jeff to take care of all our music and sound for our ceremony and cocktail hour. He was so professional and easy to work with. It was so important to me that everyone could clearly hear our ceremony as it was outside in a large space and he crushed it! We also had him DJing during cocktail hour and we 10/10 recommend it, he got the party started right away and everyone loved it.
Kerrie G., a year ago
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LA Page Makeup 
Rating: 5.0 (60 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 13
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hi guys! I’m Lauren and I am the owner of LA Page Makeup. I’ve been providing makeup services to CT and New England for over 14 years and have found nothing lights up my world more than serving clients and giving them the confidence to shine! I have earned my beauty and theatrical makeup certificates, as well as certificates in lash lifting and tinting, brow lamination, and more. Continued education is so important to me! My favorite part of doing makeup is the look of awe my clients get when they look in the mirror. If I can help give you the confidence and self-love to shine, I’ve done my job right!

Awarded Best of Zola
Lauren was such a pleasure to work with! She was professional, friendly, and paid attention to details. The trial hair and makeup appointment was very helpful for getting an idea of what to expect, and the day-of looked even better! I did a simple/natural look, but I would recommend LA Page to anyone looking for a fun and friendly group of people!
Bridget F., 10 months ago
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Wood & Word Blooms, sola wood floral designs (faux not fresh) 
Rating: 5.0 (40 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Essex, CT
  • Offer

🌹 WE ARE NOT FRESH FLOWER FLORISTS. WE WORK WITH WOOD & FAUX FLOWERS. PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE THIS IN YOUR REPLY. 🌹 Wood & Word Blooms is run by a Jen Angle, former teacher of 20+ years and specializes in using hand-painted wood flowers along with a faux, dried and preserved florals (nothing fresh here) to bring your wedding vision to life not just for that one glorious day but forever. Besides designing for you, I also offer DIY Wood Flower Experiences to create your wedding florals alongside me in person or virtually and 1:1 sessions to help DIY brides learn to do it themselves.

Awarded Best of Zola
Jennifer at Wood & Word Blooms was amazing to work with, and everything looked stunning! We got so many compliments on our arch swags, corsages, boutonnieres, and bouquets! The ability to completely customize the flower colors to perfectly match the wedding colors really ties the whole look together and makes everything flow seamlessly. Beyond the colors, there’s so many unique flower shapes and sizes to choose from, there really is no limit to what can be done to suit your wedding. Jennifer was great at providing us with design aid in order to help create our vision and bring it to life. The best part is that now we have them to keep and display forever, looking as good as the day we got them!
Brittany D., a year ago
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Dawson Entertainment Production, LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (40 reviews)
  • DJ
  • Serves Essex, CT

Dawson Entertainment is a DJ, lighting and photo booth company founded by Jason Dawson (DJ JD) in 2007. With his background in nightlife event production as Music Director and resident DJ at Shrine Nightclub inside Foxwoods, Jason combines the high energy, smooth transition mixing style of a nightclub DJ with the refined experience and fun playlist of a wedding DJ to keep the dance floor rocking! All of our DJ's come from this background of skilled mixing. Combine that with fun additions like Mirror Photo Booth, Uplighting and Marquee Letters and you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable event!

Awarded Best of Zola
Jason was an amazing DJ and we would work with him again! He did the music for our wedding and the sound system for our ceremony. He was very organized, professional, skilled, and easygoing. He was poised and classy throughout the wedding, and was great at gauging the vibe/adjusting the music accordingly. He followed our recommendations exactly. Our guests were really impressed and so were we! We strongly recommend him to anyone looking for a classy, professional, but warm and kind DJ!
Alex T., 9 months ago
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The Barns at Wesleyan Hills 
Rating: 5.0 (36 reviews)
Middletown, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 225 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $25,000

The Barns At Wesleyan Hills is a historic wedding venue located in Middletown, CT. With glorious topiary and glistening ponds on the grounds, this one of kind barn offers beauty both inside and outside its walls. This venue accommodates one wedding per day, allowing couples to enjoy this spectacular location and the surrounding grounds at ease. Our award winning team of professional wedding planners, chefs, wedding coordinators and mixologists are here to help make planning and celebrating your wedding a breeze! Your guests will be in awe of the timeless one of kind beauty paired with award winning farm to table cuisine and the best hospitality in CT. We are ready to help tell your story and ensure you have the best wedding ever - we are just a call, text or email away!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a fun and festive vibe
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Unique barn setting

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Not for you if you're looking for a sleek and contemporary space
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
The Barns at Wesleyan Hills was an exceptional wedding venue that exceeded our expectations. Their communication throughout the 4-year planning process was always quick, helpful, and informative, which made the entire experience seamless. The quality of their work and overall value was truly remarkable - the venue was beautifully decorated in a dark, romantic style that was well worth the investment. Our day-of coordinator, Sean, was wonderful and so helpful in ensuring we were taken care of on our special day. The only slight downside was that Sean wasn't involved in the full 4-year planning process, so he didn't have the complete picture of our vision. Overall, we highly recommend The Barns at Wesleyan Hills for any couple looking for a rustic, romantic wedding venue with a fantastic team to support them.
Tiffany N., 2 years ago
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The Pavilion on Crystal Lake 
Rating: 5.0 (36 reviews)
Middletown, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 210 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $20,000

The Pavilion on Crystal Lake is a lakefront wedding venue located in Middletown, CT. The charming property offers picturesque event spaces for both ceremonies and receptions, as well as other special occasions. Couples can celebrate their love and commitment to one another with guests in the venue’s beautiful barn that overlooks Crystal Lake. To alleviate wedding-related stress during the planning process, their award-winning team is happy to assist with details big and small.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
Everything about the Pavilion on Crystal Lake was perfect. The planning process was made so easy with their team of planners and coordinators. They also helped recommend other vendors as needed. The day coordination was also incredible. My husband and I were so calm, did not need to stress or worry because everything was taken care of. Sean and Eddy were amazing day of. 10/10 recommend!!
Dani W., a year ago
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Anne Fitzgerald Makeup Artistry 
Rating: 5.0 (32 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Starts at $700
  • Serves Essex, CT
  • Offer

Anne Fitzgerald is here to help you achieve what you envision for your wedding makeup look, collaborating with you in achieving glowing skin health, scheduling a bridal makeup trial, and being a calm, confident presence on your big day.

Awarded Best of Zola
Anne Fitzgerald Makeup Artistry was an absolute joy to work with for my wedding day! Their communication was quick, friendly, clear, helpful, and thorough throughout the entire process. The quality of their work was truly thoughtful, personalized, and caring - Anne brought so much warmth and excitement, which was the perfect way to start my wedding day. She was even thoughtful enough to put together a touch-up kit for me to have for the rest of the day. We partied hard-y and my makeup looked flawless all night! Anne and her team were so incredible to me and my wedding party and my family, and I am so thankful we found them for our big day!
Katie Hutchings (., a year ago
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Everlasting Affairs, LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (28 reviews)
  • Planner
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $5,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Everlasting Affairs was born out of a driving passion for the event industry and the ability to mold our clients dreams into reality. Since our inception, we’ve committed ourselves to creating impactful and one of a kind experiences for our clients and their guests, no matter the size of the event. Our team strives to meet and exceed the needs of each and every one of our clients. This is because we understand the importance of working with (not just for) our clients in order to make their events unforgettable, forging memories that last long after the last guest leaves.

Awarded Best of Zola
I can’t recommend Victoria enough! I reached out to her nearly two years ago with what I thought was a “laundry list” of questions, and I’ll be honest—I was skeptical at first about hiring a wedding planner. I wasn’t sure if it would be worth the investment. But Victoria immediately put my worries to rest with her detailed, thoughtful responses. From that very first interaction, I knew she was the right choice. I initially booked her vendor package, where she scheduled and coordinated all of our vendors, but eventually upgraded to include decor and other little details because, honestly, wedding planning can get overwhelming! Victoria was my rock throughout the entire process—especially in the week leading up to our big day. As someone who tends to overthink, having her there to guide me, reassure me, and manage the details was priceless. On our wedding day, everything went off without a hitch. Victoria’s attention to detail and calm presence ensured that the day was as perfect as we had imagined. My only regret? Not snapping a photo with her amidst all the excitement! If you’re considering a wedding planner, Victoria is worth every penny. She doesn’t just plan weddings—she creates an experience that allows you to truly enjoy your day without stress
Nana, 10 months ago
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Terrence Irving Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (26 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Serves Essex, CT

Black Connecticut wedding photographer, purveyor of the artistically-engineered photography experience. That's a crafty way of saying, I'm a computer nerd who's pretty good at photography and believes in great service! Digital image gallery, print rights, and beautiful, physical prints included with every package. My work focuses on telling my couples’ wedding day love stories through the pictures I capture. Artwork is the goal, whether it’s a highly-stylized posed photo or a moment where a loved one is emoting.

Awarded Best of Zola
Working with Terrence is easily one of the BEST decisions my wife and I made when planning our wedding! In a sea of vendors and options, Terrence stood out not only for his creative vision, but his genuine care and inclusive nature.
Erin and M., a year ago
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Chad Whelan 
Rating: 5.0 (26 reviews)
  • Videographer
  • Documentary style
  • Starts at $2,200
  • Serves Essex, CT

Upbeat storytelling. Free-form and candid! I have been full-time in the wedding industry for over 20 years specializing in short form wedding films and classic full length documentary edits. I have a true journalistic shooting style which means I will never be directing you or posing shots. I want you to be as natural as possible around me and want those moments to reflect in your final edit. You will find my short form videos to be much more on the upbeat side than most without the extensive use of voice narration throughout the entire video.

Awarded Best of Zola
Chad was absolutely amazing!! Not only was he extremely responsive and adorable, but his work is incredible. My husband and I cried so many happy tears relieving the memories he capture for us! Book him!!
Samantha D., 4 months ago
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Chelsea Rush Photography 
Rating: 4.9 (20 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $2,415
  • Serves Essex, CT

📸 Hi, I'm Chelsea, a wedding photographer with a love for capturing joy! With 6 years of professional experience (many more years as a hobbyist), my style mixes classic elegance with candid moments. I believe in creating a relaxed, fun environment, ensuring your special day is beautifully immortalized. Let's capture your love story! 💌

Awarded Best of Zola
I cannot recommend Chelsea enough!!! From the moment we first inquired with her, to our engagement shoot, to the planning process leading up to our wedding and to the absolutely amazing work she did capturing our wedding, Chelsea is so so incredible. She exceeded our expectations and more. She is thorough, prompt and really pays attention to detail. Chelsea is very timely with emails and messages, and can answer any question or challenge you bring to her. She is very organized and was a huge piece to how our wedding stayed on time and on track. Chelsea captured all of my inspo pics as well as all the photo combinations we wanted at our wedding. The turnaround time of when she gets our pictures back to us is insane!! Chelsea is one in a million and we cannot wait to work with her again in the future!!!
Lexi, a year ago
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Smudge 
Rating: 5.0 (20 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 9
  • Starts at $700
  • Serves Essex, CT

My name is Amber, and I'm the owner of Smudge. I have been in the industry for 10 years working weddings, editorial, and film. Weddings have been a constant throughout my career and styling brides has been my favorite type of make-up. I love being a part of someone's special day and creating a look that makes them feel like the best version of themselves. In 2018 I started Smudge, a team of on-site hair and makeup artists based in South Eastern CT, specializing in weddings. We're an onsite team that serves all of Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Massachusetts, and beyond. Booking minimum is per service. *Now booking 2026 and 2027*

Awarded Best of Zola
Amber and Kristy did a great job on the makeup and hair for myself and my bridesmaids, and makeup for my mom. They were fun, friendly, and informative, and everyone looked beautiful. They listened to my feedback from my trial, and everything came out even better on the day. I felt so beautiful all day, and never worried once about my hair or makeup staying in place, even through SO many tears (even when the wind decided to take my veil, it popped easily back into place)! And everything was so comfortable for how durable it proved to be - no drying products or pulling on my hair. Amber and Kristy's work is a great value, and they fit right in with my bridal party, making the start to the day that much more fun. My only critique was the timeline - I was working without a coordinator, so I trusted the professionals to lay out a timeline that they were comfortable with. Ultimately it just wasn't enough time, and despite my mother-in-law dropping out of the lineup (for unrelated reasons), my makeup still finished late. I understand this stuff happens, but I felt like the only one concerned about continuing to fall behind, and we would have had no issue getting started earlier if asked. So I would recommend some buffer in your timeline, particularly if you are DIYing it, but they did a great job!
Emily S., a month ago
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First and Last Productions LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (20 reviews)
  • Videographer
  • Cinematic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, CT

WHOLEHEARTED WEDDING FILMS -- I have filmed & produced over 350 weddings to date and enjoy capturing all of the beauty and magic of a wedding day. My style ranges from cinematic to classic to documentary so what I offer is a bit of everything for your viewing pleasure. Go to my website and read my reviews from my couples... it will tell you everything you need to know about me and my business. I look forward to possibly filming your big day!

Awarded Best of Zola
To know Julius is to appreciate his kindness and creative brilliance. When we began our wedding vendor search in 2021, I felt overwhelmed, but Julius came highly recommended. After seeing his work, we knew he had to be part of our special day. From our first conversation, he was responsive and made planning easier. On our wedding day, he captured every moment flawlessly, leaving a lasting impression on everyone. Post-wedding, he kept us updated on the video editing process, providing quick trailers and all the raw footage. Julius even sent us physical drives and a video moment book, making the experience feel personal and special. Reliving those moments has been a joy. If you’re considering a videographer, trust me: "do the video."
Melissa L., 2 years ago
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Evergreen Farms 
Rating: 5.0 (19 reviews)
Dayville, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $3,000

Are you envisioning a wedding surrounded by the warmth of a modern barn, the charm of rustic details, and the natural beauty of a 5-acre tree farm? Look no further than Evergreen Farms, nestled in the heart of Dayville, CT, the perfect canvas for your love story. Our venue seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern sophistication, providing a timeless backdrop for your celebration. Picture-perfect settings await as you explore our expansive tree farm, a serene escape for breathtaking photo opportunities. Elevate your celebration with customizable catering options starting as low as $20 per person, ensuring a delightful experience for you and your guests. We would LOVE to hear from you!! At Evergreen Farms, we're not just a venue; we're the beginning of your forever. Let us be the canvas for your love story.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Allows pets

Venue considerations

  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
Awarded Best of Zola
Evergreen Farms was the perfect wedding venue for our special day. From the moment we first reached out, Jess and Mike were incredibly responsive, helpful, and detailed in their communication. They were flexible and accommodating, even opening the venue early to ensure our vendors had enough time to set up. The venue itself was spacious, with a beautiful rustic charm that provided a creative backdrop for our celebration. All of our guests were amazed by the stunning space, especially the large dance floor that kept the party going all night long. Jess and Mike went above and beyond to help us create the wedding of our dreams. We are so grateful for their exceptional service and highly recommend Evergreen Farms to any couple looking for a truly special venue.
Maria P., 2 years ago
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Shakeup Makeup LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (19 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 1
  • Serves Essex, CT

Bridal beauty with your bridal bestie, that's me! Your wedding day is ALL about feeling gorgeous, confident, and totally YOU—and I’m here to make sure of it! From the moment we start getting ready, I’m not just your bridal makeup artist—I’m your hype girl, personal beauty expert, and biggest cheerleader! Whether you need someone to keep the energy high, make sure you feel amazing before your first look, or bring all the positive vibes to your bridal party, I’ve got you covered.

Awarded Best of Zola
I can't recommend Marisa enough! I first met Marisa about a year ago while attending her fitness classes, and shortly after, I found out she did bridal hair and makeup. I immediately booked a trial, and fell in love with how it turned out! From that moment, I knew she was the one I wanted to do my wedding makeup! Marisa also brings such amazing energy to the process—she’s your biggest cheerleader and makes you feel like the best version of yourself, inside and out. She recently did makeup for me, my mom, and my bridal party for my wedding this fall, and I am still getting compliments! It was 85 degrees and humid that day, but everyone’s makeup stayed flawless from start to finish. If you want a makeup artist who will make you feel beautiful, confident, and like the most special version of yourself on your big day—Marisa is your girl!
Jen S., 8 months ago
HairstylesCo. 
Rating: 4.7 (19 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Starts at $150
  • Serves Essex, CT

One can hardly describe the magic of a wedding morning. The soft hum of anticipation, the laughter tucked between moments, and the memories that will linger long after. Together with your stylist, your look is planned in careful detail, harmonizing with your dress, your vision, and the vibe you are creating. On the day, we arrive prepared with artistry and expertise, letting the morning unfold effortlessly. Every look is created to feel timeless in photographs, yet as natural as it is refined.

Meg's work speaks for itself - she is so talented at what she does! She was amazing to work with from the first time I reached out to her to the big day. I sent over some ideas prior to my hair trial and after sharing a picture of my dress, she helped me pick the perfect style to match it. It made the trail so easy and minimal changes had to be made to achieve the perfect look. On the big day, she was on time, professional, and so much fun to work with. My hair tends to get frizzy very easily when it's down (in this case half down), but she made sure it stayed looking amazing all night long, despite lots of dancing and even some rain in the evening. I cannot say enough good things about her! She's so talented and made me feel so beautiful on my wedding day. I highly recommend her to everyone and anyone looking for a hairstylist for their wedding!
Kat B., 2 years ago
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Rudbeckia Florals 
Rating: 5.0 (18 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

There’s a reason we’re drawn to flowers. It’s the same reason we’re drawn to the mountains, the sea and everything in between. Hi! I'm Rebecca, owner of Rudbeckia Florals. With a lifelong admiration for nature, Rudbeckia florals is an ode to this. Designs give into the will of each stem and petal to create arrangements lead by shape and texture.

Awarded Best of Zola
By the time I reached out to Rudbeckia Florals I was feeling overwhelmed by wedding planning. Our wedding had a celestial theme so I was debating if I even wanted flowers. Rebecca emailed me a mockup with a thoughtful, detailed description of all of the elements and how they could tie into the theme. I was so impressed with the effort and creativity. Then she the quote and it was within our budget! The bouquets turned out beautiful and I got a lot of compliments on them. Rebecca was so easy to work with. I don't know much about flowers so I put a lot of trust in her creative vision and expertise- it completely paid off!
Ally O., a year ago
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AVENTZ Co. 
Rating: 4.8 (17 reviews)
  • Planner
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $2,700
  • Serves Essex, CT

AVENTZ Co. - curating eclectic, eccentric, and elegant event experiences for all, while celebrating individuality and creativity. Abby your planner has over 10 years in the event industry and has worked in every aspect of the event industry before becoming an event specialist. At AVENTZ Co., we genuinely care about you, your event, and your guests. Our goal is to ensure that your special day is not only fun and memorable but also safe and stress-free.

Awarded Best of Zola
My husband Alex and I got married in June of this year at Eolia Mansion. After nearly two years meticulously planning our big day I just knew that we needed the right person to help us pull it off, and wow did Abby exceed expectations and boy did we wish we had worked with her earlier on. Abby truly went above and beyond for us from helping with our timelines and floor plan, to executing our decor and managing vendors on a VERY short load in/load out window, to instructing our family/friends. To this day our close friends and family continue to say how amazing Abby was and have had nothing but the highest words about what an incredible job she did so that we could all just be in the moment and enjoy our special day!! Just to top it all off at the very end of the evening my husband accidentally left his keys behind and Abby drove out of the way to drop them off at our after party. Thank you Abby for everything!!
Caitlyn and A., 10 months ago
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Evermore Beauty 
Rating: 5.0 (15 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Starts at $400
  • Serves Essex, CT

Evermore Beauty, based in Ellington, Connecticut, is a beauty service that provides on-site wedding day makeup and hair. The company is owned by Eve Grenon, who is a certified makeup artist and has been doing makeup professionally for over 13+years, specializing in bridal. She understands how it's one of the biggest days of your life which is why she specializes in bulletproof bridal makeup. Makeup that will last throughout all emotions and weather. She’s also teamed up with Megan O’Neill, who’s 18+ years behind the chair has provided amazing hair styling, intricate updos and long lasting curls for all types of hair types and weather!!

Awarded Best of Zola
Eve and Megan were incredible to work with!! I HIGHLY recommend Evermore Beauty! From the start, Eve was responsive, organized, and knowledgeable. I don’t use a lot of makeup usually, and she gave me a look that felt glamorous AND natural. I never wanted to take it off after the trial and wedding, I loved it so much! And it stayed on all day without a single worry. Eve gave me a touch up kit that I never even had to use, which was a really sweet touch. My hair was also incredible thanks to the talented Megan! She gave me so much volume, which is hard to do with my hair, and I got so many compliments! Both Eve and Megan are not only talented, but also very kind and fun! You will not regret having Evermore Beauty be a part of your big day :)
Alyssa Z., 2 years ago
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True Colors Productions 
Rating: 5.0 (15 reviews)
  • Videographer
  • Storytelling style
  • Starts at $4,250
  • Serves Essex, CT

My name is Taylor — I’m a husband, father, teacher, ocean lover, and videographer / editor based out of CT and Cape Cod. I’ve been passionate about photography for as long as I can remember, and deep down I’ve always felt that capturing moments was in some way my calling. A few years ago I began to realize that photographs — even the most compelling ones — are not able to tell an entire story. They provide a powerful glimpse, frozen in time, but even the best photographs are unable to preserve memories and emotions the way that films can.

Awarded Best of Zola
I can't say enough great things about Taylor! I knew from our initial call that I wanted him on our vendor team and I couldn't be happier with my decision! His films capture the elegant and timeless vibes I was hoping for and he was an absolute joy to plan and work with. Taylor and my photographer blended seamlessly and teamed up on the big day to work their magic. Our social media reel is my favorite thing to watch now and we're so excited to see the final product! Taylor is truly gifted and I would highly recommend him to any bride!
Lindsay C., 2 years ago
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Sterling Flower Farm 
Rating: 5.0 (13 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Whether you need flowers for a small elopement or an elaborate celebration, we want to make your wedding flowers as special and unique as your love. We hope you will choose to celebrate the environment when you celebrate your special day by choosing our Connecticut-grown flowers. I treat the flowers with preservatives to help them last for your special day, rendering them non-organic.

Awarded Best of Zola
We had a wonderful experience with Sterling Flower Farm for our wedding! They were extremely responsive, easy to work with, and friendly throughout the entire process. Communication was a breeze - they always got back to us promptly with quotes and were able to answer all of our questions. On the day of our wedding, the flowers arrived on time, fresh and fragrant. The bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces were gorgeous and exactly what we envisioned. Their arrangements really brought the whole wedding together and enhanced the venue beautifully. For the high quality of flowers and customer service, we felt Sterling Flower Farm offered excellent value for our wedding budget. We wholeheartedly recommend them for any special event needing florals!
Jennifer G., 2 years ago
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Chocolate Rose Bakeshop 
Rating: 5.0 (12 reviews)
  • Cakes & desserts
  • Starts at $120
  • Serves Essex, CT

Welcome. When I first started my story, it started out with me as a young adult and starting my adventure down the road of cake artistry. Then I dug a little deeper and gave thought to what probably sparked my interest in cake decorating. Chocolate Rose Bakeshop is Griswold, CT’s fav Custom & Special Occasion Cakeshop. Our creations may look too good to eat, but they taste too good NOT to! At Chocolate Rose we take pride in creating cakes that not only look too good to eat but taste too good NOT to!

Awarded Best of Zola
Chocolate rose bake shop made a delicious three layered cake for my wedding that consisted of chocolate cake and mocha buttercream as a filling, and vanilla cake with chocolate ganache. The cake tasted amazing and the green ombré effect they did to decorate the outside of the cake was beautiful!
Lia D., 2 years ago
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Poquonnock Plains Urban Farm 
Rating: 5.0 (11 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hello! I’m MaryAnn, the designer and founder of Poquonnock Plains Urban Farm. I create seasonal, artful wedding florals for couples who care about beauty, intention, and a deeply personal design experience. Working together, my goal is to make the floral design process feel effortless, joyful, and inspiring. I take the time to understand your style, your priorities, and the story you want your wedding day to tell. Whether it’s an intimate celebration or a grand estate wedding, I approach every detail with creativity, care, and a commitment to excellence.

Awarded Best of Zola
Maryann was incredible to work with. My husband and I put our wedding together in a month and Maryann could not have made the experience more stress free. I am a Capricorn, incredibly controlling when it comes to planning and Maryann made me so comfortable I told her to take the reins. I gave her my vision and it was as though she crawled into my head and executed everything perfectly. Our beach ceremony was followed by our reception at Ocean House where bud vases of her wildflowers danced beautifully down the center of the table with votives and wild greenery. My wildflower, beach wedding would not have been what it was without her. I recommend Maryann for any event. Her positivity radiates through her skill and she adds color to any event!
Sara A., a year ago
Tianna Hauser Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (11 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hi! I'm Tianna, a New England wedding and destination photographer based in Connecticut. My faith is the foundation of everything apart of me. My family, friends, and my business. I wouldn’t be where I am today without God, & I pray that my clients can see the goodness of the Lord through every stage of working with me! My style reflects my photography: a mix of cottage core & country. Outside of photography, l'm a wife, mama, homebody at heart, and a lover of hot cocoa, fresh sourdough, thrifted finds, intentional living, garden shops, & cozy nights in. Inspired by old love letters, barefoot adventures, and celebrating in the in between!

Awarded Best of Zola
If you’re looking for a photographer who is not only incredibly talented but also one of the sweetest, kindest people you’ll ever meet, Tianna is your girl!! From the moment we booked with her through our engagement session, wedding day, and even after the wedding, she has truly cared about us every step of the way. She is so communicative, easy to work with, and genuinely wants your photos to be everything you’ve dreamed of. She’ll go above and beyond to make it happen. Tianna has such an eye for photography and knows exactly how to pose you so everything looks natural and beautiful, even if you’re awkward in front of the camera. :) She photographed both our engagement session and our wedding, and I honestly couldn’t be happier with our experience. On our wedding day, she did so much more than just take photos; she jumped in to help with anything we needed, even things that weren’t part of her job. Having someone like that by your side on such an important day is priceless. I love, love, love Tianna, and I already know she’ll be the one capturing all of our future milestones. I can’t recommend her enough!
Sam, 4 days ago
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Cori Alexandra Hair and Makeup Artistry 
Rating: 5.0 (11 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hi! I’m Cori, a bridal hair & makeup artist with over 11 yrs of experience in the bridal industry. I believe wedding day beauty is about more than how you look; it’s about how you feel in one of the most meaningful moments of your life. My goal is to create an experience where you feel confident, supported, & completely yourself. I work closely with you to design a look that feels timeless and elevated while still feeling authentic to who you are. Trials are held in my private studio where we take the time to refine every detail and ensure you feel fully confident in your vision. Above all, it is an honor to be part of such a special day.

Cori is such a talented artist. She worked on my bridal hair and my bridesmaids hair for my wedding. She listened to what I wanted and made sure it was exactly it before leaving. She offered a trial too which was so helpful to have! She is so fun and bubbly and a great addition to our getting ready party!
Kimberly, 5 months ago
Quick responder
Pachaug Cottages 
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)
Griswold, CT
  • Venue
  • Up to 130 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $5,275

Pachaug Cottages hosts a lakeside 40x60ft heavy timber frame pavilion and seasonal cottages to host your wedding! Conveniently located near the Rhode Island / Connecticut border on Pachaug Pond, the property is within driving range of several international airports (Providence, Hartford, Boston). Contact us today to book a tour!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Provides lighting and sound

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • No venue-provided food services
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Awarded Best of Zola
Pachaug Cottages was the perfect venue for our wedding. From our first interaction, the owners, Jeff and Karin, were helpful, and friendly, going out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed. The property itself is truly beautiful, with serene lake views and a ton of beautiful places for photos. Every detail from ample parking to a specific area for catering and a designated bar has been thought of so there’s less to stress about on the big day. This family-owned establishment is unparalleled, and we highly recommend Pachaug Cottages for anyone's wedding, family reunion, or other event.
Katy S., 8 months ago
Quick responder
ALM Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Essex, CT

Hi, I'm Tony, owner of ALM Photography.. I'm a seasoned photographer with over 12 years of wedding experience specializing in true to life, unfiltered wedding photography. With more than 25 years of dedication as an emergency room nurse, I bring a unique perspective and a keen eye for detail to every shot. I photograph weddings with a balance of photojournalistic storytelling and editorial refinement- most of the day is captured as it naturally unfolds with real moments and real emotion-while portraits and key moments are gently guided to create timeless, magazine-worthy images.

Awarded Best of Zola
ALM Photography was an absolute pleasure to work with for our wedding. Their communication was quick, clear, and easy, making the entire process seamless. The quality of their work was excellent - the photos are absolutely beautiful and so professional. They came prepared on the day, knowing exactly what we wanted, and captured all the special moments of our wedding perfectly. We couldn't be happier with the memories they've given us, and highly recommend ALM Photography to any couple looking for an exceptional wedding photographer.
Rachel J., 2 years ago
Quick responder
Kelli's Kitchen 
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)
  • Caterer
  • Starts at $85
  • Serves Essex, CT

It is our mission at Kelli’s Kitchen to provide you with a wow factor through the elegance of our food, and the excellence of our service. Kelli has been cooking for over 20 years teaching her homeschooled children and their friends how to cook a wide array of culinary delights, from simple, tasteful appetizers to mouthwatering entrees. In that time, Kelli found her joy and artistic ability through food. That same creativity and hospitality is emanated through our food and staff to create a personalized, unforgettable experience at your event.

Awarded Best of Zola
We had Kelli’s cater our 150 person wedding. The execution by the staff was exceptional. Her food presentation is beautiful, and the taste is even better. Kelly’s industry experience was a huge plus as she was able to think of the important things for our big day. Our guests raved about the food and their experience. We have even attended two other weddings where Kelli has catered and have seen consistency, continued creativity, and have truly enjoyed how personable and professional the entire staff is.
Amy B., 2 years ago
Brianna Ritoli Photography LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Essex, CT

I was born and raised in the smallest little state, Rhode Island! With that comes a huge appreciation for the coast and a realization that magic can be found in even the smallest of details. Growing up in a small town where time seems to go by slower helped me learn the value of genuine connections which have now become apart of who I am.

Awarded Best of Zola
We are SO glad we worked with Bri! From start to finish she was supportive, communicative, and onboard with our elopement. My husband and I are not comfortable in front of the camera and she made it so easy to get beautiful photos! I let Bri use her artistic vision to get a lot of our photos, and I am so happy I did. Her and Lucas were fabulous - and essential to keeping our elopement as quiet as possible. I will definitely be reaching out to Bri if we ever need any other photos done! Thank you so so much for capturing our day!!
Katelyn H., 2 years ago

Essex, CT reception venues by style

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