Over the past 15 years, barn weddings have become increasingly popular. The only issue is that rustic settings aren’t exactly synonymous with luxury. This can lead to you feeling like you have to compromise on accommodations if you want your romantic barn environment. Luckily for you, Kent Island Resort has you covered! As a Maryland wedding photographer, I get the chance to get a backstage peek at all the best venues in the state. If you’re looking for the best spot for your barn wedding, I would love to tell you all about the Kent Island Resort wedding venue in Stevensville so you can decide whether this is the spot for you.
500 Kent Manor Drive, Stevensville, Maryland 21666
Kent Island Resort is a gorgeous hotel on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. It is quiet and secluded, with over 220 acres to explore. The hotel itself is located in a historic manor that dates back to 1820. The original inn was closed in 1911, and within decades, it was all but forgotten. When entrepreneur Fred Williams purchased the estate in 1986, people urged him to level it to the ground.
Williams, however, was always up for an adventure and decided to restore it. He added on a new wing, seeking to use the utmost historical accuracy whenever he could. The result was a manor as beautiful as it is impressive. Today, the hotel features expansive gardens, waterfront lawns, and a new barn built for comfort. Between the tranquil setting and the top-notch accommodations, the spot has become an award-winning spot for couples to plan their wedding.
Whether you prefer to have your wedding inside or outdoors, overlooking the Chesapeake, Kent Island Resort has the ideal spot for you. Indoor weddings can be set up in The Farmstead. This large, open space has off-white walls, rustic barn doors, and a cathedral ceiling with wooden rafters. There is a wooden parquet floor, and you can breathe extra life into this space with your decorations.
For couples who want the feeling of being outdoors but want to maintain climate control, check out the Pavilion. This space is covered and features a white draped ceiling. You can choose to either enclose the area completely or leave the sides open for an open-air venue. Finally, the exterior gives you several spaces for your wedding ceremony. The gazebo tends to be a beloved space for this portion of your day. The location is near a wooded area and gives you an open field for your ceremony. You can work with the venue to find additional options for your outdoor wedding.
For those wanting an outdoor reception, the Pavilion is your best option. This will let the cool summer breeze waft through the area and ensure your guests stay dry no matter what the forecast looks like! The Farmstead is a great option for an indoor reception. The open floor plan will let your guests mingle and dance late into the evening. Finally, the Garden House is ideal for more intimate events. This bright and airy room features a large pavilion in the center where you can have your first dance.
The porch around the Farmstead gives you the ideal spot for your cocktail hour. Your guests will have a covered space where they can enjoy signature drinks and look out at the stunning property.
The venue has a designated bridal suite where you can get ready prior to the ceremony. You will have a sunny space where you can do any touch-ups and toast to the upcoming day.
Kent Island Resort will work with you to find the ideal spot for your party. Their venue can accommodate up to 300 guests.
This venue is full of tiny details that will elevate your wedding. While the Farmstead is a newer space, the decor makes it feel storied and rustic. The interior has a balcony as well as chandeliers that will keep the space well-lit. The Pavilion has wooden beams across the ceiling with white draping along the walls. There are also chandeliers in this space. The Garden House has white walls, white accents, and plenty of windows to invite natural light.
The resort offers a private dock on the Bay, perfect for couples’ portraits after the ceremony. The front of the manor serves as a grand and historic backdrop for both couples’ portraits and group shots. The fields throughout the resort make it accessible to take family pictures between the ceremony and the reception.
With Kent Island Resort, the venue will ensure you have everything you need for your dream wedding. They provide the catering, and you can work with the team to create your perfect menu. They offer buffet services, seated dinners, and hors d’oeuvres. If you would like, you can use their team for your wedding cake. They will even cut it and serve the slices to your guests. The site fee includes event planning, giving you the chance to work with a professional to iron out all the details.
They will also provide you with tables, chairs, glassware, dinnerware, and linens. You can use their altar or arbor should you need it. The venue is pet-friendly, so your four-legged family member doesn’t have to miss out on the festivities! There is a nearby parking lot, and you can opt for valet services.
At a Kent Island Resort wedding, you’ll have a beautiful space for a barn wedding. Check them out today so you can decide if this is the wedding venue for you! And if you’re looking for someone to help you capture all those details, I would love to chat! I am a Maryland photographer, and I adore working with couples to document their dream day. If you are still searching for your wedding photographer, I would love to have a conversation so you can decide if I’m the one for you. Contact me soon so you can find out more.