Get Married in Massachusetts

As one of the original colonies and the birthplace of America’s Camelot — by the way of the Kennedy family — the state of Massachusetts has long been a vacation destination for history buffs. Nature lovers also score big in the Bay State thanks to its picturesque mountain region and glittering coastline. Whether you are a city, country or beach bride, this storied location has a destination wedding option for you.

Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club, Cape Cod

Located in the seaside town of Brewster (named for one of the pilgrims) this sprawling resort has all the expected beachy amenities, along with multiple pools, tennis courts, four restaurants and a newly revamped golf course. Accommodations are spread among the property’s historic mansion and three “villages” of one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. Wedding venues are just as varied. There’s the new Linx Pavilion, a transparent structure set on the golf course’s 18th hole. The rambling lawn fronting the mansion can host more than 300 guests; smaller affairs can be celebrated inside the coffered rooms or at the romantic Carriage House. Cosmopolitan brides who desire a sea view can book the chic Ocean Terrace with its panoramic vistas of Cape Cod Bay. Ceremonies can be held throughout the property or on the resort’s beach. Additional sense-of-place touches include traditional lobster bakes and s’mores bonfires on the sand (wedding packages start at $130 per person and include hors d’oeuvres, one-hour open bar, a three-course plated dinner, champagne toast, wedding cake and basic décor. Ceremonies start at $1,250; oceanedge.com).

Photo Credit: Virtual Visit

Seven Hills Inn, the Berkshires

The mountainous region in the state’s western corner has long beckoned travelers in search of fresh air, outdoor pursuits and world-class cultural attractions (most notably Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra). Hotels here reflect the setting and most are housed in historic buildings. The Seven Hills Inn is one such outpost set on 27 acres with a main house that was once a summer mansion of the Gilded Age. Wedding ceremonies at the three-season resort are held on the exquisitely manicured grounds or in the ornate drawing room. Receptions take place in the mansion’s ballroom and windowed music room. All events on the property, which are expertly crafted under the watchful eye of owner Robin Gerson Wong, are personalized and limited to one a day. Guests enjoy a variety of accommodations including 11 antique-filled rooms in the Manor House, 28 basic rooms in the bi-level Motel and 5 rooms with kitchenettes located in the Carriage House. All have views of the rolling grounds and pretty gardens (site fees start at $3,300 and include basic reception set-up and wedding coordinating services. Ceremony site fees are $375 and include basic set-up and décor; sevenhillsinn.com).

Photo Credit: Bryce Vickmark

Photo Credit: Bryce Vickmark

Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center, Boston

In addition to its championship-winning sports teams, Boston is known for its winding cobblestone streets, landmarked buildings and famous port, the site of the Tea Party that incited the Revolutionary War. The upscale Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center is an anchor of the city’s revitalized waterfront district, offering sweeping views from its 813 rooms. Couples here can choose among five grand ballrooms for receptions. The Harborview Room with its adjacent canopied deck affords uninterrupted vistas and can accommodate up to 190 guests. The bi-level Lighthouse Room is a more modern option with a specialized LED-lit wall. If you have an intimate number of guests, consider a private dining room. Or opt for one of the suites, which can hold eight for a formal dinner. For a special treat, ask the concierge to arrange a private cruise and picnic to a small harbor island (wedding packages start at $182 per person and include one-hour open bar, basic décor, wedding planning service, a dance class for the couple, complimentary parking for reception guests and more; seaporthotel.com).

Photo courtesy of Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center

Legally Wedded: Although the fine details may vary from county to county, a marriage license is required to wed in the state of Massachusetts. Couples must apply in person at the local city or town hall and — depending on the county — furnish a birth certificate, Social Security number and photo ID. Some may require a death certificate or divorce decree, if applicable. Fees range from $10 to $50. There is a three-day waiting period and the license is valid for 60 days from issuance.