The summer is the perfect time to get married in New York. The weather is warm, the flowers are blooming and everyone is looking for THE PARTY. This blog will tell you everything you need to know about planning your dreamy summer wedding. We'll cover the best reasons to have your wedding in the summer, the timing of events, choosing your venue, and our very own summer recap.

First, allow us to introduce ourselves if you are new here. We are the Preston Barn, located in Dover Plains NY on the property of the historic Old Drovers Inn. We host wedding weekends from the rehearsal to the send-off brunch, have cozy accommodations on-site and nearby, and options to suit the needs of any couple looking for a fun and memorable experience for them and their guests. In the summer, there are exciting activities and places to explore for a perfect wedding weekend. You can find more info about our weddings here and book a tour or get pricing here.

So let's start with some of the many reasons to choose a summer wedding in the Hudson Valley:

- Summer weddings are beautiful with lush flowers and warm sunny days. Our property looks so pretty with flowers in every area, tall and lush green trees, and well-maintained lawns.

- You can plan for a summer wedding without worrying about the frequent spring rains or fall chilliness! Not to say you can't get rain, but it's less likely. Luckily here at the Preston Barn, we have plenty of indoor or tented space to use no matter the weather!

-Locally grown fruits and veggies are at their finest! The food will be amazing... especially if it's made by our chefs, just saying.

-Your traveling guests will have an easier time traveling with cheaper pricing and the ability to take time off (especially if they have school-aged kids)

-There's more to do! If you are planning a full weekend wedding getaway, summer is the time to do it. The Hudson Valley is loaded with great outdoor activities. In/Near Dover Plains you can enjoy:

• Visit local trails and gorgeous views (Dover Stone Church, Appalachian Trail, Innisfree Garden, Kent Waterfalls, Mid-Hudson Rail Trails, Nellie Hill Preserve)

• Visit local Wineries and Distilleries (Millbrook Vineyard, Cascade Mountain Winery, Clinton Corners Winery, Taconic Distillery, Hillrock Distillery, Tenmile Distillery)

• Visit Wings Castle, Crown Maple Syrup Estate, Soukup Farmers Market, Millbrook Farmers Market, Millbrook Antique Mall

• Four Brothers Inn and Drive-In Movie Theatre

• Mini Golf and Ice Cream at Kelly's Creamery (they also have a tented area with fire pits and seats. A great spot to hang out after rehearsal dinner!)

• Trevor Zoo at Millbrook School

• Local Carnivals and Fairs

Ok, now let's talk about timing.

The days are longer in the summer! This means you can start the ceremony a little later in the day and still have daylight as it starts to cool down for the cocktail hour and photos. You can get those "golden hour" sunset photos without having to rush the timing.

If your venue has a fire pit (we do!), those cool or slightly warm summer nights are perfect for enjoying fireside chats and s'mores! (And cigars, in this case)

Choosing your venue.

Okay, obviously we'd love for you to consider the Preston Barn… but we know there are great venues of all different styles and you need to find one that suits your needs and your vision. So let's help you with that...

If you are planning a summer wedding, there are a few things you need to look for:

• The backup plan for rain ... although that's any time of year really.

• Temperature control (many barns don't have AC but WE DO!)

• Find out what the grounds are like after it has been very hot and/or rainy.

• Do they serve/allow welcome drinks as guests arrive? Sometimes there is a little bit of a walk to the ceremony or it starts a little later and your guests should be hydrated.

• What is the bug situation? (We definitely recommend having bug spray around in the summertime. Again, nature.)

• Is there shade or trees for your guests to enjoy during the ceremony or reception?

• What about bathrooms - are they inside, outside (with no bathroom), etc.?

We definitely take pride in the quality and success of summer weddings here at the Preston Barn (and FYI we have indoor bathrooms and lots of shaded space). Check out some of the celebrations of love we have hosted this year!

Additional tips for planning a summer wedding:

• Dress for the weather. A heavy tux, long-sleeved dresses, and long dresses for the bridesmaids may not be the best options.

• Prepare for the elements. Provide guests with things like bug spray, fans, handkerchiefs... anything to help keep them comfortable.

• Understand that there is a risk of uncomfortable and risky weather conditions in every season. Just prepare and enjoy the many advantages of getting married in a beautiful NY summer!

Thinking of having a summer wedding in the Hudson Valley? Come take a tour with us! We have dates still available for 2022 and booking into 2023. Contact us today for pricing and a tour before the calendar is full!

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