Sound the alarm, there is a BRAND NEW small wedding venue in Connecticut. Located in Centerbrook, CT it’s bound to get you excited for planning your own wedding. Connecticut is widely known and loved for banquet halls and barn venues, but Shannon Dolan saw the opportunity to bring something fresh and different to the wedding scene and we are excited as heck to welcome Station 97 on Main to the list of incredible options available in Connecticut.
Shannon is no stranger to the wedding industry. She is a mobile bar pioneer, operating the shiny red converted horse trailer Mix and Mingle Mobile Bar since 2019. When I sat down with Shannon last weekend, she told me how Station 97 on Main came to be. How her entrepreneurial spirit was born, the trials that she endured to secure the space, and the heart she has to provide an amazing experience to couples looking for an industrial wedding venue in CT. It was an absolute honor to be amongst the first of many talented photographers in this historical space.
This small wedding venue in Connecticut is located directly next to the Essex Steam Train at 6 Main Street in the historical E.E. Dickinson Witch Hazel factory. One of the unique draws of this building is the old machinery still preserved through out the building. The entire building and complex grounds is available for taking portraits that guarantee an exclusive element. You won’t find anything like this anywhere else!
The venue has its own entrance, but shares the complex with other businesses. On your wedding morning, grab coffee and breakfast from Deep River Roasters and consider your rehearsal dinner at Surfridge Brewing Company East before heading out to enjoy the quintessential New England vibes the town of Essex has.
The venue is perfect for those with a more intimate guest count, holding up to 100 guests. It is truly a blank canvas for you to design your wedding anyway you’d like. There are multiple options for a ceremony space, including inside the main area, outdoors on the patio, or even on the lawn.
For your reception be prepared to be wowed as you walk into the main room with floor to ceiling windows and a gorgeous textured brick backdrop with polished concrete flooring.
Station 97 on Main is the very definition of small, but mighty. For getting ready spaces, there is a stunning bridal suite with four stations that have mirrors and excellent lighting for hair and makeup to take place. The space is beautifully designed with a couch, chairs, larger than life mirror, and mini fridge. It’s a great place for you and your best gals to get ready before the big moment. There is plenty of space here for you, your girls, and your glam squad to set up in here comfortably and enjoy the morning.
Alternatively, there are stunning AirBnb options nearby if you’d like to sleep close by and get ready off site. This
Alternatively, there are stunning AirBnb options nearby if you’d like to sleep close by and get ready off site. This Downtown Essex Apartment, Ideal Historic Home, and Home in Essex with a large yard (perfect for photos!) are great options.
Currently there is no place for grooms to get ready, but Shannon and I did talk about her plans for making that happen for future couples.
I can’t say enough good things about Station 97 on Main. I’m beyond thrilled to welcome them and recommend the space to all my couples seeking a unique and wonderful option for their best day ever. They are READY for you. Not just for your wedding, but for all events. Birthday parties, baby showers, and more! To inquire, contact Shannon. She is currently booking for 2023 and 2024 events.
Venue: Station 97 on Main
Dress: Love me Forever Bridal
Hair: MCS Hairstyles
Makeup: Makeup by Jocelyn
Florals: Three Roots Floral Design
Photography: Wild Arrow Photography
All of the above mentioned vendors are preferred vendors with Wild Arrow Photography. I take special care in getting to know and work with trusted partners to bring you the best wedding experience you can have. These women owned business take immense pride in their art and it shows. They go above and beyond for their clients and care deeply about the experience they provide. Click their links to inquire with them for all your wedding needs.