Saying 'I Do' to Unique Local Wedding Spots in the Hamptons

Your friends are getting married at vineyards and on beaches. They’ve rented out beautiful manor houses, historic hotels and five–star restaurants for the occasion. You want your special day to be unlike any other, but, how? If you’re a quirky couple looking for a wedding unlike any other, here are a few unique options for you to consider.

Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center
Does the water hold a special place in your heart? Have you always wanted your very own Enchantment Under the Sea dance? For one night only, you can reign as Mr. and Mrs. Poseidon. Catering to one wedding at a time, the Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center can host anywhere from 20 to 650 guests, with many locations to choose from. More traditional receptions are held in the Sea Star Ballroom, overlooking the Peconic River. For a nautical atmosphere, couples can choose the Coliseum Room, a venue with walls of tropical tanks. Daring couples will love the shark dive wedding ceremony, where the bride and groom slip into wetsuits and face masks and take the plunge in a shark cage. Surrounded by predators of the deep, the couple can then exchange vows, which are broadcast to the wedding guests through a sound system and are visible through the observation windows.

There are currently three wedding packages available, each of which includes a cocktail hour with glass globes and ambient lighting, Champagne toast, white-glove service and a complete gourmet menu. Seafood, anyone?

Located right beside Hyatt Place East End, this particular location is ideal for large families and out-of-towners, as the proximity to downtown Riverhead and all its offerings can turn the entire event into a weekend getaway. Visit atlanticbanquetandevents.com to find out more.

Country Fair Entertainment Park
Are you a fun–loving couple looking for a good time…and laser tag? Your ideal special day could very well take place at County Fair Entertainment Park in Medford. The amusement park includes mini golf, arcade games and go-karts, which your guests can enjoy following a beautiful outdoor ceremony on the lawn.

Want to throw some family bonding into the mix? Everyone can take a run around the park’s Laser Frontier, an outdoor laser tag field equipped for up to 20 players per game. Receptions are held beneath a wedding tent, decorated to suit any theme. For venue details and pricing, call 631-732-0579 or visit countryfairpark.com.

On a Boat
While it’s a myth that boat captains can all officiate at weddings, that doesn’t mean you have to give up your boat wedding fantasy. Why not take advantage of our gorgeous surrounding waters by chartering one of the many boats out of the Lake Montauk marinas? You can bring an ordained minister and create your very own maritime nuptials. You’ll have a view of the Montauk Lighthouse unlike any other, and sail off into the sunset.

Suffolk Theater
For the couple craving drama, Suffolk Theater provides a reception space that will take your back in time. The art deco theater in Riverhead, built in 1933, is a registered landmark. It features a full working stage, cabaret style seating, and an atmosphere of a bygone era. The space can accommodate upwards of 300 guests. The in-house restaurant can customize a menu to your specific taste. “This is not a catering hall. You’re not choosing package A, B or C,” says Director of Events Nicole Evers. “Everything from designing the wedding to the menu to the music and lighting is creating a 100% unique experience. I strongly encourage people to be creative in such a unique space.” The features of Suffolk Theater have lead to some exceptional wedding experiences, including speakeasies, flash mobs and even a wedding ceremony in the style of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Bonus: Your names in lights across the iconic Suffolk Theater marquee. Visit suffolktheater.com or call 631-727-4343 for more information.