OceanCliff Hotel in Newport, RI, was the enchanting backdrop for an unforgettable evening as we hosted the book launch and cocktail party for “The Wedding People” on August 7th. This bestselling book, which draws inspiration from the timeless elegance and charm of our very own venue, brought together guests for a night of celebration, conversation, and literary delight.
The event took place on the Upper Deck at OceanCliff, offering breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the conversation between the author, Alison Espach and fellow author, Beatriz Williams. Attendees were captivated as she shared insights into the inspiration behind the novel, revealing how the grandeur and history of OceanCliff served as the perfect muse for her story.
As the evening came to a close, guests left with signed copies of the book, a deeper connection to the story, and memories of a beautiful night spent at OceanCliff. We were thrilled to have hosted such a wonderful event and look forward to many more evenings where literature, history, and hospitality come together to create something truly special.
OceanCliff has long been a place where stories unfold, and on this magical August evening, “The Wedding People” became a part of our own story. Here’s to many more chapters to come!
In case you need an excuse to enjoy a midweek outing, we’ve got you covered! Join us on the Safari Room lawn at OceanCliff on Wednesdays all summer long for our Whispering Wednesdays series, featuring Whispering Angel rosé.
Bring your friends and soak in the views overlooking the Narragansett Bay from the comfort of our Adirondack chairs. You won’t find a better way to beat the summer heat than sitting under the shade of our pink umbrellas with the salty sea breeze blowing off the bay!
For a classic experience, enjoy a “Bucket of Roses” (a team favorite!), which includes four mini bottles of Whispering Angel rosé. If you’re looking for something a little stronger, we’re also serving up specialty rosé cocktails featured only on Wednesdays or take our Sales Manager, Susanne Day’s, advice and “ask the Safari bartenders to make a ‘Tequila Cosmo.’ It’s pink for Whispering Wednesdays and a favorite for summer 2024 in Newport.”
Our Lite Bites menu is available all day and our full menu starts at 4pm. You’ll find plenty of delicious pairing options from raw bar and small plates to our signature charcuterie board and lobster roll.
You can’t miss this quintessential summer activity – so grab a friend, snag a seat, and join us on the lawn where we’ll be pouring rosé all Wednesday long!
Rhode Island author Alison Espach presents her new novel THE WEDDING PEOPLE, set at a fictional seaside Newport hotel. Where better to celebrate than with a cocktail reception at the venue that inspired the book?
August 7, 2024 4-6 PM
Tickets are $75 and include admission to the reception, a signed copy of the book, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. The Safari Room Restaurant will be open for dinner after the event.
Join us for an unforgettable summer evening at OceanCliff with Alison Espach!
Stay close to home and enjoy the beauty of Rhode Island with a staycation at Stone House Inn!
Located in the quaint, seaside community of Little Compton, Stone House Inn is the perfect destination for a cozy getaway. You’ll love the comfort of our elegant guest rooms, complete with soaking tubs and gas fireplaces.
Enjoy 20% offyour stay April 1st – May 15th. Package also includes a bottle of wine upon check-in, evening lite bites and continental breakfast the next morning.
Take a stroll around the nearby historic sites and attractions, including Little Compton Commons, South Shore Beach and nearby hiking trails. Or spend the day wine tasting at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard and relax at the outdoor fire pit in the evening.
Enjoy a memorable staycation at Stone House Inn and explore the best of Rhode Island.
Call 401-635-2222 and mention CODE: STAY 24 to book your getaway today!
While winter is traditionally a slower season for nuptials, a winter wedding at OceanCliff is truly magical! With our roaring fireplaces and romantic architecture, OceanCliff provides the perfect romantic setting for your special day. Your wedding party can get cozy in our 24 guestrooms and dance the night away in our gorgeous ballroom overlooking Narragansett Bay.
Planning a winter wedding in Newport, RI can have many benefits, such as:
Off-season weddings are typically less expensive. If you’re on a budget you’ll get the most bang for your buck from December–February or even early March.
Choose from a wider selection of available dates. Since winter isn’t exactly wedding prime time, your venue and vendors should have more availability on their calendars. Which means you’ll have a better chance of securing the date of your dreams with your favorite venue + vendor team.
Avoid the summer crowds and traffic, and have more availability and flexibility for your preferred date and time.
Your guests won’t be slammed with wedding invites. Or travel plans! Which means more of them will be eager to attend your event. Just be aware that winter’s got a lot of holidays, so plan your date accordingly.
Enjoy the cozy and romantic atmosphere of Newport’s historic hotels, mansions and fireplaces, which can create a magical backdrop for your special day.
Available 2024 Winter Dates:
Friday, December 20th Sunday, December 22nd Friday, December 27th Available 2025 Winter Dates:
Sunday, January 5th Sunday, January 19th Friday, January 24th Sunday, January 26th Friday, January 31st
Sunday, February 2nd
Friday, February 7th
Sunday, February 9th
Sunday, March 2nd
Sunday, March 16th
SNOWFLAKE PACKAGE AT OCEANCLIFF
Valid Fridays and Sundays December-March 2024 & 2025. Average cost $184/per person (based with 75 guests).
Package includes:
Complimentary Luxury Guest Room for Wedding Night Stay
20% off additional guestrooms
One hour of open bar – beer and wine
Four passed hors d’oeuvres, choice of two entrees, champagne toast
Complimentary Ceremony Package
Complimentary parking for all guests
Start planning your dream winter wedding today! Call 401.619.7924 or submit an inquiry here.
Check out these Winter Weddings at OceanCliff and our Pinterest boards for more ideas and inspiration!
Every year, Pantone sets the tone for design and fashion with its Color of the Year. In 2024, the spotlight is on the enchanting and sophisticated Peach Fuzz. This warm and inviting hue is a perfect choice for weddings, bringing a touch of romance and timeless elegance to your special day. In this blog post, we’ll explore creative ways to incorporate Peach Fuzz into various aspects of your wedding, from bridesmaid dresses and florals to linens and signature drinks.
Bridesmaid Dresses: The bridesmaids’ attire sets the tone for the entire wedding color palette. Peach Fuzz is a versatile color that complements a variety of skin tones, making it an excellent choice for bridesmaid dresses. Consider dressing your bridal party in flowing Peach Fuzz gowns for a soft and ethereal look. Whether you choose floor-length or knee-length dresses, the color will add a touch of sophistication to your wedding party.
Florals: Bring the beauty of Peach Fuzz into your floral arrangements to create a cohesive and visually stunning atmosphere. Incorporate blooms such as peonies, roses, and dahlias in shades of peach, coral, and ivory for a harmonious blend. Bouquets, centerpieces, and aisle decorations in this warm hue will create a romantic and inviting atmosphere. Adding lush greenery will provide a natural balance, creating a dreamy and romantic ambiance that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Linens and Decor: Elevate your wedding decor with Peach Fuzz linens and table settings. From tablecloths and napkins to chair covers, this color adds a subtle yet impactful touch. Combine Peach Fuzz with complementary colors like ivory, gold, or sage green for a sophisticated and harmonious aesthetic. Consider adding Peach Fuzz accent pieces, such as candles or napkin rings, to tie everything together seamlessly.
Invitations and Stationery: Set the tone for your wedding with Peach Fuzz-themed invitations, save-the-dates, and programs. Use the color for accents and details, creating a cohesive and visually appealing stationery suite. Embellish your invitations with Peach Fuzz ribbons or wax seals for an extra touch of elegance.
Signature Drinks: Incorporate Peach Fuzz into your signature drinks for a delightful and visually pleasing touch. From peach-infused cocktails to fruity mocktails, there are endless possibilities. Consider offering a refreshing Peach Fuzz Bellini or a custom-named drink that pays homage to your chosen color.
Wedding Cake: The wedding cake is a focal point of any reception, and Peach Fuzz can play a significant role in enhancing its beauty. Consult with your cake designer to incorporate the color into the frosting, floral decorations, or even as a subtle ombre effect. A Peach Fuzz cake is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Pantone’s Color of the Year, Peach Fuzz, offers a sophisticated and timeless palette for your dream wedding. From bridesmaid dresses to florals, linens, and beyond, incorporating this enchanting hue into various aspects of your celebration will create a cohesive and elegant atmosphere. Embrace the warmth and romance of Peach Fuzz to make your wedding a truly memorable and visually stunning experience.
Why we love midweek weddings and why you should consider hosting one too!
In the world of wedding planning, Saturdays have long been hailed as the prime day for tying the knot. However, a new trend is emerging, and couples are discovering the hidden gems of midweek weddings. If you’re contemplating the perfect day for your celebration, consider the advantages of hosting a midweek wedding.
In this post, we’ll explore the all of the benefits that make midweek weddings an increasingly popular choice for couples seeking a unique and memorable experience.
So who hosts midweek weddings and why? Here’s the inside scoop revealed!
Specific Dates: Sometimes it’s a special anniversary like a first date or engagement date or grandparent’s anniversary or loved one’s birthday that has passed. Some cultures have auspicious dates that are more preferred. If it lands in midweek–don’t rule it out!
Venue Availability & Flexibility: Midweek weddings often provide greater availability and flexibility when it comes to securing your dream venue. Popular venues tend to book up quickly on weekends, but you may find more open dates and favorable pricing options for a Wednesday celebration.
Cost Savings: Hosting your wedding on a Wednesday can be a savvy financial move. Many vendors offer midweek discounts, allowing you to allocate your budget more efficiently. From venue rental fees to catering costs, you might find that your dream wedding is more affordable on a weekday.
Travel and Accommodations: Midweek weddings can be more convenient for out-of-town guests. Flights and accommodations are often more affordable midweek, making it easier for loved ones to attend and share in your joy.
Extended Celebration: While weekend weddings are limited to a day or a weekend, a midweek celebration allows for an extended wedding experience. You can plan pre-wedding activities, post-wedding brunches, and more, turning your special day into a week-long celebration.
Local Couples: If the venue is within a short drive from their home guests can attend the wedding and drive home after—or just spend one night without a multi-night stay required by the hotel (example: Friday-Saturday). Hotels usually offer lower pricing Monday-Thursday too!
Short Engagement: Some couples don’t want to wait. They want to start family planning, travel, buy a home, or have lots of weddings in the next year. They prefer a short planning window as it helps to make decisions faster. While the average length of engagements is 16 months—this is the average—some couples are engaged for 30 days and some for 10yrs—there is no timeline on your personal planning.
Vendor Availability: Securing your preferred vendors is often easier during the middle of the week. If the most important thing is a specific photographer, videographer, band or DJ and they only have certain dates open you may choose your venue and wedding date around their schedule. From photographers to florists, you’ll likely have more options and a better chance of booking your first choices for all the essential wedding services.
Unique Experiences: Some packages are only offered midweek and for smaller guest counts. At Regatta Place in Newport, RI the Schooner Aurora is a 68-passenger antique sailing yacht and can be used for a special ceremony at sea followed by dockside reception with dinner and dancing. At OceanCliff Hotel, we offer a Snowflake Winter Wedding Package that includes a complimentary ceremony, discounted guest rooms and more!
Guest Counts: It’s a great way to cut the list. The people that matter the most will always attend. We mostly see 10-20% drop off from invited to actual guest attendance.
Work Schedules: Lots of people don’t have Monday-Friday 9-5 schedules like wedding pros, hospitality pros, service providers so midweek works for them and their friends so they can work the weekends!
Final Piece of Advice—don’t rule out a venue because you think it’s outside of your budget. Reach out to your dream venue and tell them your guest count and budget then ask which options are best for you. They may guide you to a different season or day of the week or suggest a lower priced menu/bar combination. It’s also a good idea to start a conversation about what’s really important to you as a couple and as a family before you start your venue search. Firm up the budget and guest count and then determine how flexible you can be overall. Starting off with a wedding planner can also be a smart way to maximize your time and budget as they work with so many venues for local and destination planning.
Conclusion: As you embark on the journey of wedding planning, don’t overlook the advantages of hosting your celebration during the week. From cost savings to a more intimate atmosphere, a midweek wedding can offer a unique and memorable experience for both you and your guests.
To learn more about the advantages of hosting a midweek wedding, check out this podcast from Sara Zarella, of Sara Zarella Photography and our very own Susanne Day, Sales Manager with The Newport Experience.
Indulge in a unique Dine & Stay experience at Stone House Inn in Little Compton, RI.
Nestled in the quaint and picturesque town of Little Compton, Rhode Island, the historic Stone House Inn invites you to embark on a journey of relaxation, culinary delights, and seaside charm with our exclusive Dine & Stay promotion. Immerse yourself in the rich history and coastal beauty of the area while enjoying a memorable overnight stay coupled with a cozy, three-course dinner at our Tap Room Restaurant, a former speakeasy during the Prohibition era.
Beyond the comforts of Stone House Inn, Little Compton beckons with its coastal charm and New England allure. Explore nearby beaches, visit historic landmarks, or take a leisurely stroll through the town’s charming streets. Your Dine & Stay experience extends beyond our doors, allowing you to create cherished moments in this enchanting coastal destination.
Packages:
1 Bedroom Suite + Dinner for Two – $299: Unwind in comfort and style with our charming 1 bedroom suite, offering a perfect retreat for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Revel in the coastal ambiance and savor a delightful three-course dinner for two at our Tap Room Restaurant.
2 Bedroom Suite + Dinner for Four – $490: Ideal for a family or group of friends, our spacious 2 bedroom suite provides a cozy haven for up to four guests. Enjoy the evening with an unforgettable three-course dinner at the Tap Room, creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
Barn Studio + Dinner for Two – $270: Experience rustic elegance in our Barn Studio, a unique and charming accommodation option. This package includes a restful overnight stay for two, complemented by a savory three-course dinner in the historic Tap Room.
Studio Suite + Dinner for Two – $240: Cozy and intimate, our Studio Suite offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway for two. Indulge in a culinary adventure with a three-course dinner in the Tap Room, making your stay truly special.
Important Details:
Additional Costs: Please note that drinks, taxes, and gratuity are additional expenses not included in the package price.
Exclusive Offer: This promotion is available for direct bookings only. Secure your Dine & Stay experience by calling Stone House Inn directly at 401-635-2222.
Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with Stone House Inn’s Dine & Stay promotion. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Little Compton, savor exquisite culinary delights, and create lasting memories in our historic seaside inn. Book your package today and treat yourself to a getaway that seamlessly blends comfort, history, and coastal allure.
As the temperature starts to cool and the leaves begin to change, the Stone House Inn is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Enjoy the fabulous fall foliage and explore the outdoors without all of the crowds.
Now for a limited time, take advantage of our MIDWEEK FALL GETAWAY deal through October!
Reserve a one-night midweek stay and receive the 2nd and/or 3rd nights for only $99* each! *Taxes and amenity fee additional. Valid for Sunday-Thursday stays only through Tuesday, October 31st, 2023. Direct bookings only.
All reservations include:
Bottle of wine at check-in
Continental breakfast including homemade pastries, bagels, yogurt, fresh fruit, cereal, coffee and assorted juices
WiFi, onsite parking, beach access and chairs
Daily small bites buffet
S’mores by the firepit
What to do: Hiking, biking and wine tasting are all available in Little Compton. Visit local farms for pumpkins, hayrides and apple picking.
