How to Plan a Destination Wedding in New Hampshire

September 21, 2025

New Hampshire is a great place for a destination wedding that people will remember because of its beautiful scenery and charming small towns. New Hampshire has something special for every couple, whether they like the state's beautiful mountains, charming small towns, or beautiful coastline. To make sure everything goes well on your big day, you need to know a few things about planning a destination wedding here. Let's make the steps clearer.

Choosing the Right Spot

When you think of New Hampshire you might think of the beautiful White Mountains or the calm Lakes Region. Both places would be great for a wedding but which one is best for you? If you and your partner have always wanted to say "I do" in front of beautiful snow capped peaks a venue in the White Mountains like the Where to Plan Your New Hampshire Elopement ameliamariephoto ... might be just what you need. It's a well known place with a lot of history and modern conveniences.

The Lakes Region has many beautiful places to have a ceremony by the lake if you want it to be quiet and peaceful. The Mill Falls at the Lake has views of the lake and will make sure you and your guests have a great time.

There are places along the coast like weddings.com/floral design ideas inspired by the beauty of coastal new england/" target="_blank">Floral Design Ideas Inspired by the Beauty of Coastal New England .... This is the place for you if you want a classy wedding by the sea. It's up to you and your wedding vision to decide where to go since each place has its own vibe and amenities.

Think About the Time of Year

New Hampshire has four seasons that are very different from each other. The fall leaves are beautiful the winters are clean and white the springs are green and the summers are warm. Each season has its own problems and things that are beautiful. This is the time to have your wedding in the fall with bright red and gold colors if you've always wanted to. But you should book your venue a long time in advance because the fall is the busiest time of year for the state because of how pretty the leaves are.

New Hampshire winters can be very romantic for weddings with trees covered in snow and warm fires. But get ready for cold weather and maybe even snowstorms. Make sure your guests know what the weather will be like and what to wear.

Spring is a nice time to visit because the weather is mild and the flowers bloom. It's also a good choice if you want a quieter more private place. Summer is warm and the days are longer so you can have outdoor parties and receptions that go on until late at night. But there are always bugs to think about in the summer so guests might want a place to spray for them.

Knowing the laws about marriage in your area

Getting married in New Hampshire is pretty easy but there are a few things you should know. First both people have to be at least 18 years old. You can get a marriage license in New Hampshire from any city or town clerk's office. Couples from other states don't have to wait which is good. But your license will only be good for three months. Visit the New Hampshire State Government website for more information.

It's a good idea to meet with the town clerk if you can so that you and your spouse can get all the paperwork you need. This could be a driver's license or passport and if you were married before a certified copy of the divorce decree or your ex spouse's death certificate.

Don't forget about the officiant when you plan your destination wedding. In New Hampshire different people can marry couples like justices of the peace ministers and members of the clergy. You could also have a friend or family member get ordained online for a more personal touch. But make sure that the state recognizes their ordination so that you don't have any legal problems on your big day.

Where guests can stay

When guests come from far away it's very important that their accommodations are useful. New Hampshire has a lot of places to stay from nice resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts. If your venue is a hotel or resort ask if they have wedding party room blocks that are cheaper. The Maple Hill Farm Inn & Conference Center is a great option for convenience because it has both venue services and comfortable rooms.

If you want a more country feel you could rent cabins or vacation homes near your venue. This choice often gives guests a more real New Hampshire experience letting them enjoy the state's natural beauty and quiet.

Make sure you know how you'll get around. If the venue is in a rural area you should make sure that guests can easily get to and from it. This worry can be eased by providing shuttle services. Lastly make it personal by giving them a welcome packet with maps information about local attractions and maybe some snacks or treats from the area. This small act can make your guests feel welcome and valued while they are there.

Enjoy the area's food and culture.

One of the best things about having a wedding in a different place is that you and your guests get to see and learn about a new place and culture. One way to do this in New Hampshire is to use things from the area in your wedding. How about serving local seafood like Boston lobster or New Hampshire's famous maple glazed salmon? A cake made with maple syrup or an apple pie for dessert can show that you know how to follow local customs.

Adding local music like a live band that plays New England folk songs can make your reception more fun and give it a regional feel. You could also give your guests unique gifts like small bottles of maple syrup or handmade things from local artists to help them remember the day.

Also don't forget to think about putting local flowers like mountain laurels or lilacs in your decorations. They will bring in smells and colors that are unique to the area. These small details not only improve the experience of your guests but they also make sure that your wedding feels like it is deeply connected to the beauty of New Hampshire.

Planning a destination wedding in New Hampshire might seem hard at first but if you think carefully about the venue the season the legal issues where your guests will stay and the local culture you'll be well on your way to having a beautiful memorable event that really shows who you are as a couple. Keep in mind that the most important thing is to make the plan your own while also enjoying the local culture and quirks. It's a hard job but if you do it right the ceremony and party will be ones you'll never forget.