Newport

Escapism is the appeal here. Just try walking by the Bellevue Avenue mansions without daydreaming about living in Rhode Island’s historical playground for the rich. “It takes you away,” says Christine Ellingwood, owner of Warwick-based Planned to Perfection.

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Photograph by Kristin Spencer

LOCATION TO BOOK

Belle Mer’s four-season Water Salon offers breathtaking panoramas of Narragansett Bay—and two romantic fireplaces perfect for autumn and winter celebrations.

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Photograph Courtesy of Rentals Unlimited

MUST-HIRE VENDOR

Set your tables in splendor with linens (silk tablecloths with organza overlays, anyone?), fine china, and crystal candlesticks from Rentals Unlimited.

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Photograph Courtesy of the Preservation Society of Newport County

GUEST EXCURSION

A tour of the Gilded Age abodes on Bellevue Avenue always enchants. The Breakers, the Elms, and Marble House—open through January—are even decked out with poinsettias, pine wreaths, and evergreens for the holidays.

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Photograph by iStockphoto

GATHERING SPOT

Treat ’maids to Southeast Asia-inspired treatments at Hotel Viking’s SpaTerre. Flower girls and ring bearers can even tag along—the facility offers “prince” and “princess” massages and manicures for little ones.

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Photograph by Ryan Scott Johnson Photography

LOCAL FAVOR

Ocean Staters talk about Del’s frozen lemonade with religious fervor. Slip mix packets into gift bags to give guests a little taste of summer, no matter the season.


Check out more of this month’s wedding getaways in “Destination Ahead.”

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