The Best Historic Estate & Mansion Wedding Venues in Short Hills, NJ

The Best Historic Estate & Mansion Wedding Venues in Short Hills, NJ

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5 Wedding Venues in Short Hills, NJ

Historic estates, mansions
150-200 guests
Available on May 30, 2026
Quick responder
Crystal Plaza 

5.0

Livingston, NJ
  • Up to 350 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $40,000

Before it became our beloved event venue, the historic Crystal Plaza was originally a residential mansion. The initial Livingston, New Jersey-based residence was built in the late 1800s by famed architect Stanford White, who was responsible for designing the Tiffany building on Fifth Avenue, the original Madison Square Garden complex among other landmark structures. While the restored building has since been reincarnated as one of the leading wedding and event spaces in the tri-state area, it still maintains the feeling of its 19th century grandeur. Our impeccable, white-glove service begins the moment you arrive. Crystal Plaza hosts only one event at a time, ensuring that our dedicated team focuses singularly on you and your every need. From the elegant Grand Ballroom boasting numerous chandeliers (how the Crystal Plaza name came to be) to the lush gardens that change beautifully with the seasons, there are myriad backdrops to complement your wedding, social affair or corporate event.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Allows pets
  • Combines timeless elegance with history
  • Provides setup and cleanup

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
We had an amazing wedding at the Crystal Plaza! They did absolutely everything to make sure the day went smoothly. They were professional, organized, and very accommodating to every request. We had the ceremony set up outside, and when it started to rain they quickly started to set up inside. Then when the rain passed, they reset up everything outside! The venue was beautiful, the gardens were lovely, and the rooms to get ready in very pretty and spacious. All of the attendants were very friendly and helpful, constantly checking in with us to make sure we were all set. Special shout out the Mikheil for coordinating everything!
Lyndsey S., a year ago
Quick responder
Liberty Hall Estate 

4.7

Union, NJ
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $1,500

Our historic house was built and finished in 1774 and was the home of New Jersey's first elected Governor William Livingston. Throughout time the house was purchased to the Kean family where they resided until the last resident passed away in 1995. Our 23 acres grounds are full of beautiful gardens. You may chose to get married in our gardens which can be found throughout the whole property. Guests will love exploring and walking around the grounds during some off periods of the event. A first floor house tour is also an option so you and your guests get to see the beauty of Liberty Hall Museum.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Combines timeless elegance with history
  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Does not have a dance floor
  • Does not allow pets
  • No free parking
There were quite a bit of rules and miscommunications along the way. This made the experience, especially during the end of the engagement season and the actual wedding day a bit dramatic and exhausting. However, this could be avoided if every single detail is ironed out from the very beginning and you are giving consistent reminders of what you're anticipating your day to be like. Overall, the venue is gorgeous and every single area of it is grounds for awesome photo-ops. On a gorgeous day, you will absolutely not regret choosing this location. Not only is it super affordable, but they also give you the freedom to pick your other vendors to create your ideal wedding (as almost everything else is kind of "a la carte"). A bonus is that you get the whole grounds on your wedding day, so that's exciting for you and your guests!
Adalberto S., 2 years ago
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Birchwood Manor 

5.0

Whippany, NJ
  • Up to 800 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $30,000

Birchwood Manor has a total of 10 event spaces available. Guests will immediately be greeted by a dramatic spiral staircase in the venue’s lobby. The Jefferson Ballroom is perfect for your reception. Hosting up to 300 guests, it offers an elegant setting for an extravagant affair. The room features one-of-a-kind, hand-painted frescos, a beveled mirror wall, tall bay windows and 11-foot ceilings. The Grand Ballroom is the largest room available. Accommodating up to 800 guests, the space is breathtaking with its four magnificent crystal chandeliers and large dance floor. Outside the venue, couples can take advantage of the picturesque grounds for their ceremony, including a gazebo, fountains and enchanting gardens.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers full-service amenities
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Lighting and sound are not included
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No on-premises lodging options
My daughter had her quinceañera there. It was beautiful!!!! They did a terrific job and the food was great too.
Nicole A., a month ago
Quick responder
Nanina's In The Park 

5.0

Belleville, NJ
  • Up to 400 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor

Nanina’s In the Park is a New Jersey Landmark nestled in the cherry blossoms. You are invited to view the beautiful picturesque setting within a historical park which creates a picture perfect ambiance for both intimate weddings to large corporate events. Nanina’s in the Park has been hosting weddings for over 65 years and provides an experience that is second to none. The lavishly manicured grounds and traditional architecture provide the perfect scenery for an outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour. Our famous cherry gardens and Tuscan style villa will create the perfect backdrop which you must see-to-believe, and together with our exceptional cuisine and service will make your event unforgettable.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Offers a sense of luxury

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Limited cleanup and setup services
Awarded Best of Zola
Nanina's In The Park was the perfect choice for our wedding venue. From the very beginning, the staff was on top of things, ensuring our planning process was seamless and stress-free. On our wedding day, we truly felt like royalty - the level of service and attention to detail was exceptional. Martha and Kirby, the venue coordinators, made us feel like family throughout the entire celebration. The food, drinks, and overall vibe were all top-notch, creating an unforgettable and joyous atmosphere that our loved ones are still raving about. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect venue to host our special day.
Lauren M., 25 days ago
Quick responder
The Frelinghuysen Arboretum 
Morristown, NJ
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Celebrate your wedding amidst the enchanting beauty of Frelinghuysen Arboretum, where nature and elegance come together to create an unforgettable setting. Exchange vows in one of the stunning garden locations or on the grand lawn of the stately Colonial Revival mansion. Host a charming cocktail hour in a picturesque garden or on one of the scenic lawns, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooms. For an indoor celebration, the Haggerty Building offers a sophisticated atmosphere with soaring cathedral ceilings and a cozy fireplace, providing a warm and elegant backdrop for your special day. The outdoor tent, nestled among meticulously manicured gardens, offers a magical setting for a romantic wedding reception or celebration. Please note that amplified music is not permitted in the outdoor tent. Whether you envision an intimate garden ceremony or a grand reception, Frelinghuysen Arboretum provides the perfect canvas to bring your dream wedding to life.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Exudes old-world charm

Venue considerations

  • No free parking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not allow pets

Location flexible? Discover venues near Short Hills, NJ

About wedding venues in Short Hills, NJ

Why Choose New Jersey for Your Wedding Day?

New Jersey gives you four distinct regions with unique wedding settings and styles to match any vision. September tops the charts for wedding inquiries here, so you'll want to plan ahead if you're eyeing a date during peak season. The varied landscapes mean you can find everything from waterfront elegance to historic charm without traveling far.

What Types of Wedding Venues Can You Find in New Jersey?

The venue scene in New Jersey covers just about every style imaginable. Luxury estates like Park Chateau in East Brunswick offer stunning French-inspired architecture with gorgeous European gardens that make for incredible photo backdrops. If water views are your thing, places like Liberty House showcase breathtaking NYC skyline panoramas right alongside the water. History buffs fall in love with venues like Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange with its historic grounds and Mediterranean gardens. Modern couples gravitate toward industrial spaces such as The Art Factory in Paterson where contemporary design meets character and uniqueness.

How Much Should You Budget for a New Jersey Wedding?

Wedding venues in New Jersey typically run between $8,600 and $10,600, which falls right in line with the national range of $6,500-$12,000. Your overall costs will scale with your guest count. A 50-person celebration averages around $25,059 while stepping up to 100 guests pushes that to $41,588. Mid-sized weddings with 150 guests come in around $57,123 and larger gatherings of 200 reach about $71,002. Going bigger? Expect to invest around $84,881 for 250 guests or $98,761 for 300 guests. These figures help you set realistic expectations as you start planning.

Which Budget Categories Matter Most for New Jersey Celebrations?

Knowing where your money typically goes helps you allocate your budget effectively. Venues take the biggest slice at about 17% of your total budget or $9,599 for a 150-guest wedding. Florals follow at 14% costing around $7,821 while catering represents 13% at approximately $7,679. Bar services run about $6,143 or 11% of your budget. Photography investments average $5,674 (10%) with planning services at $4,622 (8%). Videography accounts for 7% at $4,051 and entertainment like bands or DJs takes 4% at $2,370. Sweet treats like cakes and desserts are surprisingly affordable at just $960 (2%) with hair and makeup coming in at $450 (1%).

ServiceAverage Cost% of Total (150 guests)
Venue$9,59917%
Florists$7,82114%
Catering$7,67913%
Bar Services$6,14311%
Photographers$5,67410%
Planners$4,6228%
Videographers$4,0517%
Bands and DJs$2,3704%
Cakes and desserts$9602%
Hair & Makeup$4501%

Where Can You Find Exceptional Culinary Experiences in New Jersey?

The Manor in West Orange houses one of America's most acclaimed kitchens with multiple ballroom options to match your party size. You'll love Liberty House in Jersey City where farm-to-table cuisine comes with those incredible NYC skyline views we mentioned earlier. Hudson House brings Italian influence through Executive Chef Matteo Limoli's creative menu designs. The Rockleigh adjusts their menus seasonally and can customize dishes to match your personal tastes. Food quality varies dramatically between venues so tastings are essential.

What Options Exist for Accessible Wedding Venues in New Jersey?

The Rockleigh can accommodate massive celebrations with up to 850 guests while offering both grand ballrooms and beautiful outdoor garden settings. Bridgewater Manor features elegant chandeliers a grand staircase and beautifully maintained grounds that photograph wonderfully. Always reach out directly to venues about specific accessibility features you need. Most have wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms but details matter when creating an inclusive celebration for all your guests.

How Can New Jersey Venues Accommodate Remote Guests?

Crystal Springs Resort in Sussex County offers virtual tours that can be adapted for remote guest experiences. Liberty House and Hudson House provide scenic settings that work perfectly with advanced audiovisual systems to bring your ceremony to distant loved ones. Bonnet Island Estate offers unique backdrops that videographers can capture creatively for those who can't attend in person. More venues now offer hybrid options after the pandemic changed how we think about celebrations.

What Makes Your New Jersey Wedding Uniquely Yours?

You'll find your perfect match in New Jersey whether you're drawn to waterfront venues with Manhattan skyline backdrops historic estates with classical architectural details or modern spaces with industrial charm. The state's diverse regions offer venues across many price points and styles. Your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple and New Jersey's venue landscape gives you plenty of options to create that personalized celebration regardless of your budget or aesthetic preferences.

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