Green
Habitat Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary

This 88-acre Shangri-la in Belmont is a prime place for brides and grooms conscious of their ecological footprint. To rent the Habitat, you must become a member of the Massachusetts Audubon Society (a mere $58), which runs the property; so from the start, you’re making a green gesture. During the reception, guests can amble through the wildlife sanctuary, home to deciduous and evergreen forests, meadows, and a vernal pool. Wedding ceremonies are usually held in the formal gardens—or at a brick Georgian house on the grounds, complete with a living room and fireplace, a solarium, and three walls of floor-to-ceiling windows that mean nature is always in view.

Info: 10 Juniper Rd., Belmont, 617-489-5050, massaudubon.org.
Capacity: 100
Fee: $2,800; additional $1,000 for tent rental
Catering: Open to select caterers
Special note: Daytime events only
If it’s booked, try: Artists for Humanity EpiCenter (voted one of the top-10 sustainable buildings in the nation by American Institute of Architects), 100 West Second St., Boston, 617-268-7620, afhboston.com.

Surfside
Steep Hill Beach

Photo by Bryce Photography

If you’re looking for formal tradition and an ocean view, the Great House at Castle Hill in Ipswich is (literally) tops. But if you’d prefer to wriggle your toes in the sand and feel the breeze in your hair while saying your “I do’s,” Steep Hill Beach, located just down the hill from the Great House, offers a casual setting and laid-back ambiance. The property’s private, rolling lawns with giant shade trees are just a pebble’s throw from one of the most picturesque swimming beaches in all of New England. Many couples hold their ceremonies right by the water—and then head up to the lawn for a more traditional reception.

Info: The Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Rd., Ipswich, 978-356-4351, thetrustees.org.
Capacity: 200
Fee: $800–$2,395; additional fees for tent rental
Catering: Exclusive caterers only
Special note: Weddings on the beach must be standing ceremonies, and no alcoholic beverages are permitted by the water
If it’s booked, try: Emerson Inn by the Sea, One Cathedral Ave., Rockport, 800-964-5550, emersoninnbythesea.com.

For an over-the-top reception site and an epicure's choice, go on to the next page...