Reception: Event Planning, Caterers, Venues, Wineries & Vineyards

Planning your wedding reception or any other event on the North Fork can be fun and easy. There is a host of choices: wineries, catering halls, private properties, public properties, and restaurants. North Fork Weddings showcases the finest professionals here in wine country so we hope you take time to browse our site! Of course, if you prefer, North Fork Weddings provides in house consultations and full event planning services. We welcome you to see all that North Fork Weddings can do to make your event attain the vision you have.

North Fork Event Planning
North Fork and Hamptons Caterers
North Fork Venues
North Fork Wineries & Vineyards

North Fork Event Planning

North Fork Weddings is not an event planning service, but we can help you find one. While it can be fun to plan your own event, having a true professional can make all the difference. Not only are they adept at handling the myriad of details that are inherent in any large event, but they can also help select the service providers most suited to your needs. Many property owners are more comfortable allowing the use of their premises when an event planner is in charge and often properties are only available through the event planner. If you are planning an event from a distance, it is imperative that you utilize an event planner. If you are planning a corporate event, you need to know that your event is professionally handled so as to reflect positively on your company. Brides should enjoy their weddings as should their families and friends.

While North Fork Weddings does not plan events, we do respond to all e-mail inquiries and will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Please e-mail us at info@northforkweddings.com.

Uncompromising excellence and unparalleled grace define this full-service catering firm inspired and directed by Simon Sheridan. Originally from England, Simon is an intuitive designer who balances all facets of a wedding exquisitely; food, location, flowers, music and more. All menus are customized to your personal tastes and Mr. Sheridan's remarkable culinary expertise ensures that the highest quality of food is always delivered, no matter how large the affair. Indeed, he is so dedicated to perfection and committed to excellence that he personally attends every wedding he caters. He always listens carefully to each and every client, and his entire staff demonstrates the utmost discretion and privacy. The emphasis at Exquisite Food is to make every bride's unique vision a distinct reality.

Corinne has been in the event and wedding business for over twenty years and has earned her reputation as a true professional. She offers not only her organizational skills and deep reservoir of vendors and contacts, but also the eye of an artist. (Her hand painted silk chuppas are displayed in museums, and serves as lasting tangible memories for bridal couples.) When she shared with me some of the comments past clients have written to her, I laughed aloud when one described her as "human valium." Indeed, she does have a calm persona and maintains such an aura of confidence and serenity that she can smooth over not just ripples, but big waves too! What I think is particularly wonderful about Corinne is her understanding that each situation requires different services. If you wish to make all your arrangements yourself, Corinne offers "on site management" just for the day. If you want her assistance in the total planning a one day event, a destination wedding, or corporate event, she has the experience and talent necessary. She is available in The Hamptons, The North Fork, and New York City.

As one of the Hamptons' leading wedding planners, Jill Gordon creates chic, personalized events with a sense of high style and cutting-edge sophistication. Clients rave about her expertise and ability to bring a stress-free atmosphere to the planning process. She pays close attention to the couple's vision and helps them create a wedding that truly reflects their style while still paying attention to logistics, budget, flow and the comfort of wedding guests. Known for her at-home tented events, she is also in high demand for weddings at vineyards, beaches and other local locations. Regardless of venue, she is famous for hitting the right tone of beach elegance. This boutique firm offers an array of services for any budget. With twenty-plus years in the business, Jill Gordon is often the planner of choice for style-conscious Hampton couples.

Christopher Michael
Exclusive Caterers of the Jamesport Country Kitchen
P.O. Box 614
Laurel, NY 11948
(631) 722-3537
www.northfork.com/catering/

With over twelve years of catering service in private homes, wineries, and estates, Matthew Kar has earned top ratings on the East End as a trusted and talented provider of services.  He has gathered together a superior staff which supports his credo of personal attention and superior food served with style.  Having attended numerous events catered by Christopher Michael, from small private gatherings to large elegant weddings, I can personally attest to his excellence.  Matthew Kar invites you to visit his showplace at Jamesport Manor Inn on Manor Lane for menu options and other guest services.

The East End has changed over the past twenty five years, and to be sure, it has a slightly different face than our grandparent's first saw. At its core, however, it is a seaside community with a style found only in this corner of the world. Since 1982 The ClamMan has been operating a seafood market providing catering for parties and events from The Hamptons to Manhattan. Though it offers a wide diversity of catering options, it is probably most famous for its, you guessed it, fabulous clambakes! Want beaches? The ClamMan knows where they are from Montauk to Westhampton and from Riverhead to Orient AND they know how to access them for you. Naturally, there is always a Plan B in place in the event of inclement weather. If you love the taste of the sea, but prefer to indulge at your city digs, The ClamMan is very experienced in bringing the shore to the city. (In case you didn't catch it, the name came from people saying "Let's call the clam man!" Sounds like a great idea, doesn't it?)

Uncompromising excellence and unparalleled grace define this full-service catering firm inspired and directed by Simon Sheridan. Originally from England, Simon is an intuitive designer who balances all facets of a wedding exquisitely; food, location, flowers, music and more. All menus are customized to your personal tastes and Mr. Sheridan's remarkable culinary expertise ensures that the highest quality of food is always delivered, no matter how large the affair. Indeed, he is so dedicated to perfection and committed to excellence that he personally attends every wedding he caters. He always listens carefully to each and every client, and his entire staff demonstrates the utmost discretion and privacy. The emphasis at Exquisite Food is to make every bride's unique vision a distinct reality.

Award winning chefs, first class servers, incredible flexibility, and supreme professionalism place this Southampton based caterer at the top of the heap. A lifetime of Hampton living ensures that this family owned caterer is in touch with the wants and needs of its clients. This year Four Seasons Caterer has added an exclusive Kosher kitchen used only for glatt kosher cooking with rabbinical supervision to their recently opened private venue. An historic venerable home in Southampton, the property can accommodate up to 250 guests in a bright and flowing space and has wonderful terraced gardens, perfect for weddings, bar mitzvahs, and anniversary parties. The food is sophisticated and eclectic, and whether a client wants buffet, a sit down dinner, or passed hors d'oeuvres, or whether the event is on the beach, by a pool, or at Four Seasons' own location, this caterer is up to the task. Its sensitivity to the importance of a wedding day is apparent in its willingness to make the day happen "in any place close to your heart." Ultimately, Four Seasons Caterer is indeed a caterer for all seasons... of the year and of your life.

Indian Island Catering has its home at Indian Island Clubhouse located at Indian Island Golf Course in Riverhead. This fabulous location is fully described in our "venue" section, but you may be interested to know that this catering company headed by Russ Moran also offers off premise catering. If you are lucky enough to have a home overlooking the water, (or even one with a great back yard!), this caterer is capable of delivering a delicious and well presented meal for your guests. There choices vary from tea sandwiches to sit down dinner entrees, and all are outlined on their site. Russ Moran is easy to talk to and will give you the benefit of his experience and professionalism. Of course, once you are at Indian Island, you may very well decide to hold your affair right there. (See also: Venues, Restaurants, Activities)

If you can't get to the river, don't worry; the river can come to you!  Having built a fabulous reputation as an extraordinary caterer at Indian Island Golf Course and Country Club located on the Peconic River, Russ Moran is now offering off premise catering anywhere in Suffolk County, especially the East End, where he is so well known.  Sample menus are posted along with comments from some happy clients.  To celebrate this new endeavor, Russ Moran has a special wedding package offer that will certainly answer the prayers of many brides and grooms.  Ask around and you'll hear great things about Russ and be sure to look at his website.

An awesomely unique multi cultural approach towards food and its presentation make Scrimshaw Catering a top player in the wedding and event industry on the East End of Long Island, including both the Hamptons and North Fork Wine Country. While all menus are custom designed to the client's needs with the guidance and assistance of chef de cuisine Dean Caselnovo, the selections are likely to tempt anyone to pick "just one more" item. Butlered hors d'oeuvres for a cocktail party might be shrimp "martinis" with green sauce, Smoked trout Waldorf on potato crisps, crisp curried crescents, wild mushroom wontons, and foie gras terrine on brioche. Chef owner Rosa de Carvahlo-Ross and Dean Caselnovo are masters at matching great wines with gourmet entrees to create elegant dinners for any number of guests and sometimes can be persuaded to do cooking demonstrations. You can taste their food at the restaurant on the wharf in Greenport and if you are lucky, you might even be able to book a night to hold a rehearsal dinner or private event.

Stuart's Seafood Catering
41 Oak Lane
PO Box 1859
Amagansett, NY 11830
(631) 267-6700
www.stuartsseafood.com

Stuart's Seafood Catering takes great pride not just in their delicious fare, but also in their professional service and sense of fun they bring to your event! With over 25 years of experience, catering directors Karl and Carolyn Vanston stay calm, cool and collected in the face of any challenge. Stuart's offers full service clambakes, barbeques, luaus and custom menus for any occasion. You may want to visit their website to read the New York Times profile on their pig roasts!

Trumpets truly is an East End Pearl: of nature, of sea, and of perfection. The cedar shake "Hampton Cottage" design of this waterfront property offers understated elegance, glorious views of the bay, and an intimate soft décor. Guests wandering out onto the bayside decks, sailing into one of the slips, or just enjoying the views through the crystal clear windows experience the feeling of a private estate. White glove treatment prevails for weddings, private parties, and corporate affairs. The food is as superb as you would expect from a Hampton estate with a personal chef, deliciously fresh and beautifully presented.

If you love the idea of being married in wine country, but really do want an elegant facility with all the amenities, Vineyard Caterers is the place for you. The building is lovely, with a grand staircase leading down to a formal foyer, spacious and beautifully decorated reception areas, and one of the most beautiful outdoor decks on the east end. The second floor holds the bridal suites which can be used to dress, primp, or just relax before your event, the only one held at the given time. A full service facility, Vineyard Caterers combines professionalism with personal attention and your event receives their undivided attention.

To find caterers located on the South Fork, please visit Hamptons Caterers & Event Planners!

North Fork Venues

Weddings on the North Fork are as unique as this corner of the world. Properties that were once only privately viewed are now being happily shared with celebrants of special events. There are casual "beachy" hotels, elegant manors, lawns bordered by hydrangeas or sweeping down to LI Sound, inlets, old barns, and catering hall/restaurants with sunset views over LI Sound and back yards filled with grape vines! Vineyards put the area on the map but the beauty here is not new, just undiscovered.

One soft and lovely tradition of days gone by is perhaps the "at home" wedding. Most just don't own suitable houses, but you're in luck! Blue Iris is first and foremost a gracious home, with acres of lawn and gardens dotted with vignettes of charm. A large deck overlooks the gardens and is accessible from French doors leading into a lovely family room with fireplace and a full kitchen with granite counters. A gorgeous dining room and living room with piano flank the wide entrance hall with a staircase built for a bride's photos. Upstairs are three luxurious rooms, each with private bath and downstairs is a studio like apartment with two bedrooms and efficiency appliances. The best part is you will have all the sentiment and intimacy of an "at home" wedding thanks to the graciousness of hosts Jerry and Lorry Siani. Naturally, there are many things you'll want to know, so be sure to give them a call and make an appointment to visit "home."

For all of you folks who have been looking for a place on the water to hold that pre-wedding clambake, or a large joyous wedding, or maybe just a great party, you have found it here at Dreamer's Cove Inn.  A 16 room one story building, all rooms look out onto Peconic Bay and the inlet and have little decks out onto the lawn.  And speaking of lawns!  This one is large enough to hold a tent for 200 people and remember, the lawn is waterview.  There is a private beach, kayaks, and spectacular skies.  What makes it even better is that there is no charge for using the lawn for guests and if your group takes up all the rooms, you can have your wedding there without paying a land rental fee.  Manager Chris Owadally will gladly help you work things out with caterers and rental companies.  This is a casual beachy sort of place, and the natural beauty of Peconic Bay is unrivaled.  Rooms are pleasant and comfortable also so your guests never have to leave the property!  (See Lodging)

It's not often that reality matches fantasy, but that's what you'll experience at Driftwood Farms, a new venue for weddings and events. Located in Orient on the tip of Long Island, this is an actual farm for horses and privets but it feels like a country manor on the coast of Ireland, with vistas, and beauty usually the stuff of dreams: 140 acres of lush green lawn sweeping right up to 600' of bluff on Long Island Sound, expansive views of sky and sea, horses grazing behind fenced lined paddocks, and two enormous barns that are so perfect, anyone would love to live in them, nonetheless party in them. The barns can easily accommodate a gathering of over 450 guests. This little bit of magic in Orient is made available by owners Steven and Gretchen Mezynieski who live on the property and are thrilled to share the land's beauty with others.

Hallockville is unique natural staging area. The only "flash" is a shooting star across the dark night sky; the only "glitz" is the reflection of sunlight on the open fields. As almost all East End locations require, a tent is necessary to accommodate larger groups, but the beautifully restored barn provides indoor space for a cocktail party, band, and dance floor. The open beams and warm woods of the barn's interior are a designer's dream. Although eminently suited to a country design, skillful designers can turn this space into just about anything! The tent can be erected to back up against the barn so that the wide barn doors provide a natural opening between the two structures. The grounds are populated by historic buildings, many of which date from the 1700's. The location is convenient as it is close to the Hamptons, LIE, and is in the heart of Wine Country. If you prefer originals to copies, nature to fake waterfalls, and space to walls, Hallockville will speak to your inner self.

Sweeping lawns, pink, blue, purple and white hydrangeas, weeping willows, apple blossoms, light yellow barns and farmhouse make this property a fantasy location for that country wedding. With extensive property, Hydrangea Farm and Gardens can accommodate tents of any size and still allow plenty of room to view and enjoy the natural beauty of the North Fork. Formal garden weddings with a yesteryear feeling Hydrangea Farms and Gardens is for those who reject the run of the mill for individuality. Prudence Heston will work with your event planner/coordinator to insure that everything is perfect. Do the unexpected and live the exceptional at Hydrangea Farm and Gardens.

(Corporate Events? Veer away from the Golf Outing to offer your clients a truly unique and memorable experience. Click here for more info)

Indian Island Country Club sits right on the banks of Peconic River, a natural estuary leading into Peconic Bay, often graced with swans gliding its surface and serving as home to many of our most beautiful shore birds, it is one of the East End's most spectacular resources. Add to this scene the rolling green hills of the golf course, and you have a truly fabulous location for weddings, corporate events, showers, rehearsal dinners The club house is charming with its homey and graceful proportions and can accommodate smaller weddings inside. However, tent weddings are very popular here and they allow for the full appreciation of the gorgeous location. Another big plus to this venue is its accessibility. If you are having guests who must travel the Long Island Expressway, they will be so delighted to be able to end their journey in Riverhead, only a few minutes from the last exit. Event planning at Indian Island Country Club is provided by experienced Caterer, Russ Moran. Your planning for your day or even your whole weekend is made easy, and affords you the opportunity to make your event as personalized and unique as you yourself are! (See also: Catering, Restaurants, Activities)

The banquet facilities at the Portly Grape encompass the best in ambiance and dining to make your affair one to remember. Celebrate in the simply appointed three-season air conditioned tent situated on 4 acres of manicured grounds. It's a perfect palette to introduce your own personal touches to the setting. The food is grand, the staff is courteous and professional, and the setting is just right for a celebration of any size and style. The main hotel has a wraparound porch, sweeping main staircase in the reception area and the lush lawn, providing a choice of beautiful settings in which to stage your formal photography. It's hard to believe that such a dramatic setting can feel so comfortable and welcoming, but the Portly Grape has managed to find just the right balance to make it so.

Imagine a crescent shaped beach with crystal clear waters. In the distance sail boats pushed by sea breezes glide on calm waters, and the opposite shores are lushly green. The blue sky is broken by a few puffy clouds and an osprey on wing; music and laughter are the only sounds. Thousands of miles from home? Nope! You're only 2 ½ hours from NYC at the incredibly gorgeous Pridwin Hotel on Shelter Island, nestled between North Fork Wine Country and the Hamptons. This complete resort can host up to 250 guests in its glass enclosed banquet room that opens to a huge water view deck. Guests staying in one of the many rooms available can enjoy the pool, tennis courts, and famous crescent beach. Whether for a wedding or corporate event, The Pridwin is perfect. Visit their web site and give their event planner, Alissa, a call.(A little tip: Ask her about rates for the "shoulder season." The island is beautiful in spring and fall).

Wow!  Fit for a billionaire, but you don't have to be one to experience what essentially is this private resort.  This gorgeous waterfront home sits on four private acres surrounded by 100 acres of preserve and sports a heated granite pool, private three hole putting greens, and the most spectacular natural views around.  And that's just the outside!  Inside is a great room with Yamaha player piano, media room, exercise room, gourmet kitchen, and five bedrooms, each with private bath and a master suite perfect for brides and grooms.  The house is owned by a long time North Fork resident so you will get a personalized introduction to the benefits of wine country celebrations.  You can choose to have the entire wedding here (there's ample parking), or just stay here with friends, family or bridal party and have the reception at a local vineyard.  You can not fully investigate weddings on the North Fork without checking out this amazing property.

A narrow lane among acres of grapevines leads for over a quarter mile to an elegant house in the midst of gently sloping lawns and flowering plants.  At the edge of the back lawn is a white split rail fence framing a magnificent view of Long Island Sound.  Peconic Bay Winery owns both the vineyard and the house and now offers them for a private weekend wedding experience.  The fully furnished house is beautifully decorated for the wedding couple to keep to themselves as a bridal suite for the entire weekend.  The winery's wedding coordinator, Valerie Hallock, takes care of arranging for security, valet parking, tenting, dance floors, etc. and will help in the selection of all other services such as caterer, music, and photography and provides the day-of event services.  If they wish, the couple has the option of enjoying a "night before" clambake on the beach or poolside cocktail party with some of their closest friends.  This is a real Vineyard Wedding Experience made all the more perfect by its waterfront location and personal attention.  Wedding packages are available, so be sure to call Valerie for an appointment to view this lovely site and discuss your individual needs and options.

Shorecrest can be made available for your special occasion such as dinner parties; garden parties; pre-event preparation; rehearsal dinners; photographic sessions and almost any occasion that requires a special venue in beautiful surroundings.  Intimate weddings are particularly lovely in this garden environment.  Arrangements can be made as part of a package when the whole house is booked or separately priced based on time and use.

This is one of the nicest spots around. The large "Gold Room" is surrounded by outside decking from which you can view the fabulous sunsets over Long Island Sound. The Soundview Restaurant is family owned and has deep local roots. The food is wonderful, and you couldn't find a nicer person than Rachel, the manager and a member of the family, to help you attend to every detail. It's easy to locate, has adequate parking, and is in the heart of wine country. (See Hotels Motels & Inns and Restaurants)

North Fork Wineries & Long Island Vineyards

With their fields of grapevines, North Fork Wine Country's wineries are lovely locations for any celebration, and are particularly romantic for weddings. If a vineyard wedding is your dream, there are some things that may help you before you start your search.

•	Size of the affair is often limited. Only a few can accommodate really large groups. If your guest list is small, you have more options.
•	Tents and portable sanitation are usually required. Only a few have indoor space sufficient for large groups of people.
•	Most wineries require that the wedding start after closing hours.
•	Be sure to call ahead to make an appointment. Some wineries have their own event planner on staff; others have personnel to show you around.

A narrow lane among acres of grapevines leads for over a quarter mile to an elegant house in the midst of gently sloping lawns and flowering plants.  At the edge of the back lawn is a white split rail fence framing a magnificent view of Long Island Sound.  Peconic Bay Winery owns both the vineyard and the house and now offers them for a private weekend wedding experience.  The fully furnished house is beautifully decorated for the wedding couple to keep to themselves as a bridal suite for the entire weekend.  The winery's wedding coordinator, Valerie Hallock, takes care of arranging for security, valet parking, tenting, dance floors, etc. and will help in the selection of all other services such as caterer, music, and photography and provides the day-of event services.  If they wish, the couple has the option of enjoying a "night before" clambake on the beach or poolside cocktail party with some of their closest friends.  This is a real Vineyard Wedding Experience made all the more perfect by its waterfront location and personal attention.  Wedding packages are available, so be sure to call Valerie for an appointment to view this lovely site and discuss your individual needs and options.