Intimate
The Herb Lyceum

With its manicured gardens and post-and-beam carriage house, the Lyceum is the antithesis of a wedding factory. Owners Cathy and David Gilson personally work with couples to create unique receptions on their family farm. Although you can gather up to 125 people outdoors, capacity for sit-down meals—for which the Lyceum is famous—is limited to 60 outside and just 30 inside. The menus highlight herbs, of course, with dishes like grilled bruschetta with goat cheese and basil, and Dijon mustard and lavender-encrusted rack of lamb. Many brides incorporate herbs into their receptions in nonculinary ways, too: Potted plants make attractive centerpieces, and herbal posies make good bridesmaids gifts. This is a site for anyone looking for an intimate gathering—and something a little different than a ballroom (and the big price tag that comes with it).
Info: 368 Main St. (Rte. 119), Groton, 978-448-6499, gilsonslyceum.com.

Capacity: 30 (indoors); 125 (outdoors)
Fee: $1,000–$2,500
Catering: In-house
If it’s booked, try: Kelleher Rose Garden, Back Bay Fens (capacity is 50; apply for a permit through the City of Boston), cityofboston.gov/parks/wed dingpolicy.asp.

Exclusive
The Harvard Club of Boston

Usually only Harvard students and grads, their families, and affiliated staff can meet at this exclusive Back Bay gathering place, but weddings are the exception—if you know the right people. The stately club houses the four-story Harvard Hall, with stone fireplaces and three ornate silver chandeliers. Some brides light the hall’s balconies with votive candles, giving the historic locale a soft, romantic touch. Its sister site, the Downtown Harvard Club in the Financial District, is also open to weddings and has panoramic views of the ocean and the Harbor Islands from the 38th floor of One Federal Street. Both clubs offer a custom-tailored menu. But be warned: they book up quickly for the peak fall season.

Info: Harvard Club, 374 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-536-1260; Downtown Harvard Club, One Federal St., Boston, 617-542-2070; harvardclub.com.
Capacity: Main Club holds 285; Downtown Club, 200
Fee: Main Club is $1,800; Downtown Club is $1,500–$2,000, depending on
the season
Catering: In-house
If it’s booked, try: The Algonquin Club, 217 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-266-2400, algonquinclub.com.

Scenic Views
Pier 4 at the Courageous Sailing Center

Haven’t heard of the Courageous Sailing Center? You’re not alone. The nonprofit center usually functions as a family-focused recreational facility, but it also hosts weddings year round. The seaside digs have one of the few unobstructed views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline—from Zakim Bridge to the Boston Custom House— yet somehow, only a handful of couples hold their receptions here each year. During daytime wedding events, guests can earn their sea legs sailing rented boats under the guidance of instructors, while landlubbers play croquet or volleyball on the shore.

Info: Pier 4, One First Ave., Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, 617-242-3821, courageoussailing.org.
Capacity: 1,000
Fee: $3,500 for the pier; tents range from $7,500 to $10,000
Catering: Open to select caterers
If it’s booked, try: Boston Harbor Hotel, 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, 617-439-7000, bhh.com.

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