Summer Elopement in Historic Newport, RI | Elope to Rhode Island

Jess & Jesse’s Lovely Newport, RI Elopement

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER / NEWPORT, RI & BEYOND

Jess and Jesse’s stunning Newport elopement was picture perfect and complete with water views, historic forts, and evening sailing. I always encourage couples to do something that is special to them and really encompasses who they are as a couple on their wedding day, and for Jess and Jesse that was going sailing on the water.

The ceremony took place at Fort Adams State Park and with just immediate family in attendance, the setup made for the cutest little ceremony spot. Water views and the iconic Newport bridge loomed in the distance, the perfect backdrop for an intimate ceremony like theirs. A lovely touch from their family was blowing bubbles during the recessional, which was a perfect Leave No Trace solution that I like so much better than throwing rice or confetti.

After the ceremony, we explored more of the fort, and then headed over to Brenton Point for a little more coastal exploration. We were hoping the kites would be out in full force, but the weather that day kept most of the kiters away. Nonetheless, we explored the incredible rocky coastline there and then headed back to the marina for the celebration. Jess LOVES sailboats and Americana, so Newport in the summer was the perfect aesthetic for their dreamy elopement.

These two had been together a long time at this point, so getting to witness them exchange vows and capture this part of their story together was truly special. Jess was such a joyful smiling ball of energy the entire time and clearly took in every single moment and loved the process. Watching Jesse’s face absolutely light up when Jess was walking down the “aisle” was one of the highlights of the day. He completely transformed seeing her for the first time during their ceremony. It was important to both of them not to do a “first look” but instead to see each other for the first time while Jess was walking down the “aisle”. It’s always such a special moment when couples choose to do this and the genuine joy on their faces is always priceless.

Jess and Jesse’s day is a testament that even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can still have a beautiful and joyful day. They were amazing enduring strangely chilly temps in July, and a constant threat of rain. Their great attitudes and love for each other won the day and in the end, they made some more incredible memories together.

The Best Small Wedding Venues in RI in 2023

Top Small Wedding Venues in Rhode Island

SWELL & STONE /Elopement Photographer / New England & Beyond

Rhode Island is one of the best places in New England and in the U.S. to hold a small outdoor wedding. If you love coastline, wildlife, insane sunrise and sunset views, and a variety of great small wedding venues then Rhode Island should be on the top of your wedding list. There are a ton of spots with epic views, and the great thing about this tiny state is that it has over 400 miles of coastline that faces north, east, west, and south. So unlike other east coast locations, there are a variety of sunset view locations, of course, many sunrise spots as well, but also many scenic spots to watch the stars come out and the milky way rise over the ocean. So if you’re a beach bum, forest fanatic, or a fan of lakes, ponds, and rivers, Rhode Island has some of the best scenery you can imagine.

If you only have around 10-15 people or fewer in your group and you’re looking for places to elope on public lands with just the two of you or a very small group, check out my recommendations for the Best Places to Elope in Rhode Island. If you’d like to spread your search a little wider here’s my New England elopement guide. Check out these articles if you’re looking for Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, or Upstate NY.

When your group is larger than 15 people, but you still want those gorgeous outdoor adventure wedding vibes, it makes sense to rent a private space that has that feel, but can accommodate your guests with comfortable chairs, facilities, and a gorgeous spot to celebrate after the ceremony. That doesn’t mean we can’t sneak away for an hour and shoot couple’s portraits at a lighthouse, but it makes things logistically easier with a larger crowd. Here are a few of my favorite small wedding venues in Rhode Island.

1. The Preserve RI, Richmond

   Although this is a non-waterfront location it’s one of my favorites because this spot has magical forest and rolling hill vibes instead. So if you’re into a more remote feeling small wedding, this might be what you’re looking for. I particularly recommend this location in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. I mean how incredible would it be to have your getting ready photos done at their amazing treehouse retreat. Are you a fan of Lord of the Rings? How about hosting your cocktail hour at the incredible Maker’s Mark Hobbit House? Plus they have so many things for you and your guests to do from canoeing and kayaking to ziplining and rock climbing. Fill your weekend with adventure, fun, and beautiful experiences!

2. Castle Hill, Newport

   When I think of Castle Hill, I think of one of the most iconic and picturesque lighthouses in the whole state of Rhode Island. Their grounds are stunning, the sunset views are amazing, and you can choose from lantern-lit gardens and white sandy beaches, ideal for warm-weather Newport, RI weddings. They have this whole getting married thing down and they can assist you with the catering, flowers, and other details you might need help with. That’s right they have their own personal in-house wedding planners to make all your dreams come true for your intimate seaside sunset wedding.

3. Lavender Waves Farm, South Kingstown

   Imagine your stunning day surrounded by intensely purple lavender with the incredible smell wafting through the air. Lavender Waves Farm is a private farm you can rent for your small outdoor wedding. Located in South Kingstown it’s close to a number of other incredible spots that are great for couple’s portraits, like Point Judith and East Beach. Bonus- there’s no need for a florist when you hold your wedding at a lavender farm!

4. Various Venues, Block Island

   Block Island is a stunning wedding site with out-of-this-world ocean views, lighthouses, dunes, shockingly gorgeous beaches, and lots of beautiful pockets to explore. There are a lot of great venues and vendors on the island. So take the ferry over from the mainland, rent some scooters, explore the island for photos, and genuinely enjoy the hell out of your magical wedding day.

5. Private VRBO’s that Allow Events

   This is one of my favorite suggestions because you can come up with places you never dreamed you could hold your wedding at, and you have a place to stay as well! When searching for a place to hold your small outdoor wedding, make sure you go into their filters and check “Event’s Allowed” to filter to only the locations that allow events. You can also add other filters like “Pets Allowed” or “Waterfront” to really customize your amazing experience. I’ve found incredible treehouses, stunning beachfront property with private beach access, so if you want to include a clambake reception, make sure you check this out as an option. Check out this gallery.

6. Cove Cabin, Mount Hope Farm, Bristol

   This site is one of my favorites because it has a truly “in the middle of nature” vibe. Your entire guest list can stay here with you, giving it the summer camp wedding feeling. Cove Cabin sits on the water’s edge of Mount Hope Bay, with unreal views of Seal Island, the Mount Hope Bridge, and Narragansett Bay. It was built in the 1940s as an Adirondack-style family retreat, the area and its adjacent lawn offer breathtaking views of the Bays. The Cabin can host up to 60 guests. Sunsets are spectacular and on a clear day, the Mount Hope Bridge frames the Newport Bridge at the opposite end of Narragansett Bay. Plus there are lush forests and lots of greenery on the property giving a truly unique aesthetic.

7. Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI

   Naturally, an iconic Rhode Island view is the Newport Bridge. So you may as well host your small wedding here. They have a ton of ceremony spots to choose from, parking is easy, and sunsets are incredible from this spot. They help orchestrate your day and have a variety of vetted vendors to choose from. This is a quintessential RI experience, so if you’re looking for iconic Rhode Island views, this might be your spot. Check out a gallery from this spot HERE.

8. Harbor Lights, Warwick

   They have incredibly gorgeous setups that can include a harborview ceremony overlooking the Narragansett Bay. Want to add more adventure to your day? They have the option to do a sunset cruise on the water. And they face west so the sunsets at this spot are unreal. They can help you figure out the catering, decor, and all the little details that will make your micro-wedding your dream day.

9. Ocean House, Westerly

   Another stunning waterfront location where the possibilities are endless. You can set up your intimate reception table on the private beach or hold your ceremony on the lawn. They have tents if the weather turns, and can generally match whatever feel you’d like to bring to your day from casual and laid back to high-end and elegant.

10. The Boathouse, Tiverton

    The Boathouse hosts small weddings with up to 48 people total on their stunning property on Sakonnet River with brilliant panoramic views. You can get married on the private dock, so literally over the water, or on the lawn, and they also cater the celebration after. It’s a great option for couples who want a gorgeous one-stop option that is also incredibly beautiful. Check out a gallery from this spot HERE.

11. Shepherd’s Run, South Kingstown

    Shepherd’s run is a new event venue and winery. It is full-service, so if you want to not worry about any of your wedding day decisions, let them take care of that for you. Wedding ceremonies can be held in the Beatrix Farrand designed walled garden, and there are 36 acres total to choose from.

12. Blueberry Cove Inn, Narragansett

    The adorable bed and breakfast helps you with all the little details. The innkeeper also serves as an officiant, and they take care of the flowers, cake, and champagne toasts as well. They have a beautiful lawn and they are very close to a lot of scenic spots for great couples portraits on the coast.

13. South County Museum, Narragansett

    The Museum is a seven-acre campus located on the 174-acre Canonchet Farm Park, two miles off US 1 in Narragansett. It’s just a five-minute walk from Narragansett Town Beach. They only host weddings are hosted from May through October and you can choose from the lawn or in the ivy-covered stable ruins. It is a more DIY setup and you arrange for tents & rental equipment. There is plenty of parking, but no heating or air conditioning.

Okay, that was a lot of info, but there are a ton of great spots in Rhode Island for an outdoor adventurous small wedding. Remember, it’s your day, so you can go canoeing, and then get married later in the day. Your wedding day should include exactly what you want it to include and nothing that you don’t. If you’re looking for a photographer to capture your unique and adventurous small outdoor wedding, that’s where I come in! I’ve been doing this for a long time, and can’t help guide you through the process. Get in touch using the button below, and start planning the small outdoor wedding of your dreams.

Unbelievable Block Island Elopement

Maddie & Michael’s Sublime Rhode Island Elopement with Seal Guests

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / RHODE ISLAND & BEYOND

It’s hard to think of a day more spontaneous, adventurous, and full of joy than Maddie & Michael’s Block Island elopement. They started the day at a spot super near and dear to their hearts, Black Point in Narragansett on mainland Rhode Island. As we hiked out for a cloudy sunrise they recalled different memories of points in their lives that they spent together on Black Point. It was so awesome to do their ceremony in a place with so many amazing memories, and add another epic memory to the pile.

But we had a 9 am ferry to Block Island to catch, so we wrapped things up and headed to the nearby ferry terminal. The short ferry journey was beautiful, and in a moment of serendipity I heard someone call my name on the roof top overlook. It was Katie & Adam whose Maine elopement I shot the previous month!

We arrived on Block Island, dropped the cake off at the hotel and headed to our first location, South Light. The views were beautiful and endless, and it is right next door to Mohegan Bluffs, which is one of the most scenic spots on the island. We waited for most people to go to lunch people we started down the steps! I’m not sure how many steps there are total, but it’s enough to feel like a workout. The views are unreal and honestly reminiscent of the La Jolla coastline in San Diego (fun fact: I lived in San Diego for many years before moving to Rhode Island).

Next we headed over to the Hodge Family Wildlife Preserve where the blooming flowers made for shots of endless fields of orange and yellow! Finally, a couple hours before sunset we started our hike out to North Light. It’s about a mile or so to the sand spit at the end, but we found a nice spot in the sand where Maddie and Michael could spread out a blanket and cut their cake. It started to drizzle on us a bit, so we took the umbrellas out and walked down to the shoreline where we had a surprise waiting for us- a sea lion popping it’s head up to see who was walking along the beach. We went down a little further and their were about 30 sea lions resting on the sand spit, swimming around, and honking at us! It’s was an unbelievable sight to beyond and Maddie and Michael were jumping up and down with joy. They couldn’t believe the experience of their day, so unexpected, adventurous, and everything they hoped for plus more. It was one of my most memorable days as well, and I’m so happy we all have the photos of their day to look back on year after year and remember how truly epic it was!

I feel like they can summarize their love better themselves, when I asked them when they knew they were first in love Maddie said, “There was a specific moment for me, we had only been dating about a month when Mike came home from work on the 4th of July after hanging with his coworkers for a little while. He got home and curled up on the couch and put his head on my lap and started to sleep and said I love you (I didn’t tell him for months that he did it 😂) but it was such a calm moment and that’s when I knew he was the one.”

And Michael said, “I fell in love with Maddie because of her amazing personality. She accepted me for exactly who I was. She makes me feel like the only person in a room when she looks at me. My fiancé is the most incredible person I have ever met. I do not know how I got so lucky.”

“My husband and I could not be happier after working with Kat! She made the whole planning process easy and very straightforward, if we had a question about anything we could reach out and she was always happy to help. Our whole day was perfect, she was very relaxed and easy going and made us both feel comfortable in front of the camera and our pictures definitely show that. We didn’t have to worry about anything, she had back up plans for any weather we could get (including a quick rain shower) but because she was prepared for it we were still able to get awesome pictures during it! We received our full gallery in three weeks as well, about three weeks than earlier than expected. We honestly only have good things to say about our experience and if any couples are considering an adventure elopement to definitely reach out to her!”

— Maddie & Michael

Stunning Rhode Island Lighthouse Elopement

Samantha & Victor’s Canoeing and Sunset Lighthouse Elopement

SWELL & STONE / Adventure Elopement Photographer / Rhode Island & Beyond

Samantha and Victor reached out to me about 3 weeks before they wanted to elope in Rhode Island. It was the summer and Coronavirus had been taking over the news cycle. They wanted something simple and beautiful, and their 4 year-old daughter was going to join in on the adventure. I proposed a number of locations around the state in my Rhode Island elopement packages, and they ultimately chose canoeing on Wyoming Pond (part of the Wood River) because they knew their daughter would love it, and then enjoying a sunset ceremony and celebration at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown.

Both Samantha and I mentioned that the week before their elopement we looked at the weather forecast, and there was nothing but sunny skies, except of course for the day they had chosen for their elopement. There was one lone lighting bolt lingering on their elopement day weather forecast. But as the weather does in the summer, things changed and we had pretty much the perfect day for canoeing on the river and we watched an incredible sunset at Beavertail.

Samantha and Victor have one of the cutest, and longest-standing, love stories I’ve had the privilege of hearing so far. They met in the 5th grade. “Our teacher had to move our desks because we talked too much, but even that didn’t stop us. We started ‘dating’ in middle school and went our separate ways in high school but we always remained friends. In 2015 we decided the timing was right and we picked up where we left off and we’ve been together ever since,” said Samantha.

“No matter how much we tried to stay away from each other the universe always pulled us together! In 2015, we spent that year getting to really know each other. Walks on the beach, climbing a mountain, visiting waterfalls, and taking mini trips to NYC and Chicago. We even bought a decent DSLR camera and documented almost every adventure big and small.” Like magnets they were drawn to one another, and when you see them together, you completely understand why.

The only thing that was more obvious than their love for each other was their love for their sweet daughter, Annabella. And they were right, she did LOVE canoeing! She wanted to jump in the entire time. She was a fearless and adventurous little explorer, and honestly she made my job getting candid shots so easy because she was constantly running around, playing and having an absolute blast.

After the canoeing we headed over to Beavertail State Park on the southern end of Jamestown. It took us a minute to find a more secluded ceremony spot, but when we did they each read their vows. Victor wrote several pages, and stopped short of reading all of them because Annabella was wiggling in her mom’s arms ready to run again. Samantha mentioned that she most certainly would have cried had he kept going. It was Samantha’s turn, and Annabella held still long enough for her parents to finish their words and exchange rings, which was quite a feat while holding her. But the part Annabella was most looking forward to was cake, and that time was finally here.

We grabbed the cake and blanket and headed over to the lighthouse. Annabella dug right in, and they enjoyed the cake with out cutting pieces, because let’s be honest- cake really is better that way. When I stole her parents for portraits for a few minutes she placed her entire hand on top of the cake and exclaimed, “You guys! Come feel this- it’s so squishy!”

Before we knew it the sun was low on the horizon and we managed a few more photos before Annabella started getting sleepy. The crescent moon came out, and colors lingered in the sky forever. The perfect ending to a fun-filled adventure elopement day.

Inexpensive Wedding Venue Ideas for Elopements

Free (or Nearly Free) Wedding and Elopement Ceremony Locations

SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE Wedding & ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER / United States AND BEYOND

Wedding venues can be pricey, but what if you can find a free or inexpensive venue for your wedding or elopment? Game-changer, right! There are parts of your wedding that you certainly don’t want to skimp on, but if you’re the outdoorsy type, one place you can certainly save money is by eloping or having a small, outdoor wedding in the great outdoors. There are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to using public lands for your wedding or elopement. Public lands sometimes require a permit and it’s best to check with the nearest ranger station. Also keep in mind people you know with a gorgeous backyard, or private land with a view. Here are a few options for finding a free or inexpensive venue for your outdoor wedding.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land

Bureau of Land Management or BLM land is technically owned by all of us. You own it, I own it, anyone who pays his or her taxes owns it. There are over 247 million acres of wilderness preserved in BLM land, and it makes up and eighth of the total landmass in the United States. That offers a lot of options of beautiful and secluded locations to have your dream wedding!

I lived in my truck for two years roaming and photographing the western parts of North America, and when I set out to find a camping spot for the evening I always looked for BLM or National Forest land because they often have free dispersed camping options. Each BLM area is different and some of them are busier than others and require camping or day use fees. Some sites can be completely free for weddings. It’s best to check in at the ranger station or do your research online before heading out to each specific location.

For example, the BLM land near “the wave” in northern Arizona has surged in popularity in recent years. The ranger station holds a hyper-competitive lottery each morning. However, there are a ton of beautiful spots in the same area that do not require a permit to explore. When I begin helping a couple plan an elopement or small outdoor wedding one of the first things I do is email or call the ranger station in charge of the land they want to have their ceremony on. Once I receive a response we are free to move forward with planning, and we can begin completing any necessary paperwork.

Find out more info about permits and permissions on BLM land here.

National Forest Land

In the U.S. there are 155 National Forests totaling about 190 million acres, roughly the size of Texas. There are so many gorgeous spots that aren’t designated national parks, and one of the huge bonuses of choosing to elope on these lands is the seclusion they provide.

Recently, I photographed a couple on National Forest land in Vermont. Not only did the rangers approve the elopement time and date completely for FREE they also sent the couple their best wishes. This couple brought along a cake and a picnic lunch to enjoy. Other couples choose to paddleboard or go for a hike on their elopement day. The possibilities are endless when you choose to get married on public lands.

Again, whether or not you will need a permit differs from location to location, so the best way to find out if you need one for your desired location is to contact the local ranger station.

Find out more info about permits and permissions on National Forest land here.

National Park Elopements

The National Park system in the United States holds vast and varied landscapes from the gorgeous seashore and ancient granite peaks of Acadia National Park in Maine to the otherworldly desert of Joshua Tree National Park. There are 61 national parks covering over 52 million acres of land. Another amazing perk of getting married on public lands is that you save money on decor because the landscape is stunning. Some couples choose to use freestanding arches to designate their ceremony site while others create confetti out of native dried brush or flowers, although neither are necessary to have a wildly different and beautiful wedding.

In most National Parks couples will need permits to hold their elopement or small outdoor wedding. Most permits range from $100-$400, and can be obtained by filling out a form on the park’s website or sending a paper form to a specified address. Each park has its own rules are regulations on what kinds of decorations, guest limits, and activities can take place during the ceremony. Some parks allow pets and others do not.

Here is the wedding info for a few of the most popular parks couples elope in:

Zion National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Yosemite National Park

North Cascades National Park

Crater Lake National Park

Acadia National Park

Cape Cod National Seashore

If you would like more info on the parks listed or others not listed here, please fill out my contact form and I can help you start planning your dream outdoor wedding or elopement.

State or City Parks

Some state or city parks have incredible views and sometimes fewer restrictions for wedding parties. Often these areas also have groups of cabins that can be rented for family and guests, making logistics and planning easier for everyone. I photographed a wedding at Deception Pass State Park in Washington and the entire guest list stayed on site in a bunch of small cabins. The couple was able to get married in the backyard of the lodge with a view of the ocean and activities like canoeing and hiking were available on site. Obviously renting out an entire area of cabins is not free, and may not be considered as inexpensive. However, if you compare renting the same amount of hotel rooms for your guests in a city it is guaranteed to be cheaper, and overall a more adventurous experience.

Options like this are great if you plan on having more than 15 guests as some state parks have more facilities in place for large groups and less demand than large national parks.

Private Land Owned by Family or Friends of Family

Sometimes the most inexpensive and easiest option might be in your own backyard. If you have a beautiful backyard or know someone who does it might be worth seeing if you can make it work. Some properties back up to wilderness preserves and boast great views and ample parking for attendees. Look around the area where you live, and if land isn’t designated under one of the public land categories, check and see if you know who owns it.

Planning a wedding is a labor of love, and if everyone pitches in to make it happen you can stay on budget and have the incredible outdoor elopement or wedding of your dreams.

If you need a photographer to help make public lands adventure wedding dream images come true, get in touch today.

Serene Anniversary Adventure Session at Castle Hill Lighthouse

Newport, RI Lighthouse and Cliff Explorations- Makeda & Tej

Swell & Stone / New England Elopement Photographer

Makeda and Tej where visiting Newport, RI from New Jersey for the their 10 Anniversary. Makeda reached out and said she wanted to take photos on the cliffs, and if possible, with a classic New England lighthouse in the background. Of course, my first thought was Castle Hill! This is such a cool, historic, lighthouse with beautiful cliffs, and we were super lucky with timing, because the day before was nothing but rain. The trail was still a bit muddy, but we made due, and we were able to capture her vision, and so much more. Neither of them had ever been there before, and they were in for a treat! We had the lighthouse nearly to ourselves, and I had some of the most beautiful light to capture their love. All of us were excited about the views, and going on a micro adventure on a gorgeous spring evening in March.

The two of them were so sweet together, supporting each other over the rocky terrain, not the easiest place to walk with nice shoes on. Another thing that is hard to tell in the photos is how chilly it was this day. We were lucky to have beautiful sunshine and a gorgeous sunset, but in between Makeda and Tej were putting on their jackets to stay warm. They were both blown away by the beauty of the Rhode Island Cliffs, and couldn’t wait to see more.

After Castle Hill lighthouse we headed over to Fort Adams State Park for more photos, including sunset shots with the Newport Bridge in the background. Because it was cold outside, we walked down the pier first, and captured some of classic New England scenery in the background, and then took at warm up break. These two where champs for lasting as long as they did. I was so honored to be the photographer they chose to celebrate 10 years together. Congrats Makeda & Tej!

“Kat was awesome! We wanted 10 year anniversary photos that captured the beauty of Rhode Island and she gave us just that. Lighthouse, ocean, bridges and cliffs... it was wonderful. And even better was seeing the photos when they came through. They were wonderful!! Still can’t stop looking at the photos and showing them to everyone!”

— Makeda & Tej

If you’d like to have a wildly different wedding experience or adventure session in Rhode Island, get in touch today. I live in Pawtucket, RI, so although I travel a lot for my work I can usually work our a session close to home. Click the button below to get in touch!