Enchanting Wedding at Roger Sherman Inn, New Canaan, CT: Celebrating Love
Why Roger Sherman Inn Is a Dream Wedding Venue
A Fusion of Historic Charm and Modern Luxury
Picture this: a stately historic inn with warm hardwood floors, original moldings, and a soft breeze carrying the scent of fresh-cut flowers through its sun-drenched halls. That’s the essence of Roger Sherman Inn in New Canaan, Connecticut. This 18th-century landmark flawlessly fuses the elegance of Old World architecture with the comforts of modern hospitality, making it an unforgettable place to say “I do.”
The beauty of the inn lies in its versatility. Want a timeless candlelit dinner reception? Done. Prefer a garden ceremony under the golden rays of a Connecticut summer? They’ve got you covered. The venue offers multiple spaces, both indoors and outdoors, that can be tailored to your vision, whether you’re dreaming of vintage romance or minimalist chic.
Plus, there’s something about the inn’s antique charm that sets the tone for a wedding steeped in love and authenticity. Every corner feels like it has a story—each brick, beam, and window frame whispering elegance.
Personal Story: How This Venue Captured My Heart
I first visited the Roger Sherman Inn as a guest at my cousin’s wedding. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to be floored—but from the moment I walked into the candlelit parlor with jazz gently playing in the background, I knew this place was different.
The ceremony took place beneath a canopy of trees in the garden. Afterward, guests sipped lavender lemonade on the patio while a harpist played under the twinkling lights. The reception was held in the main dining room, where antique chandeliers and warm wood paneling created a cozy, timeless ambiance.
It was elegant without being stuffy, intimate without feeling cramped. I remember thinking, If I ever get married, this is the kind of place I want—something that feels like home, but better.
Exclusive and Intimate: Tailor-Made for Romantic Gatherings
Not every couple wants a 300-person blowout—and that’s where Roger Sherman Inn shines. With its intentionally limited capacity, the venue offers an atmosphere of closeness. You’re not sharing the space with other events, and every element of the day is focused on you.
Whether you're hosting 50 guests or planning a micro-wedding for 20, the inn offers flexible options that feel custom-built. This is the kind of place where you can walk in and know your guests are going to be well taken care of—because the staff actually remembers their names.
It’s perfect for couples who want their wedding to be personal, warm, and grounded in genuine connection.
The Unforgettable Atmosphere of New Canaan, Connecticut
New Canaan’s Small-Town Magic
New Canaan isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of the magic. With its classic New England charm, tree-lined streets, and elegant boutiques, this Connecticut town sets the tone for a wedding weekend filled with sophistication and heart.
Guests can enjoy local cafés, walk the historic village, or explore Waveny Park’s lush greenery before or after the big day. The town has that perfect balance of upscale and inviting—a rare gem that makes your celebration feel exclusive but accessible.
Out-of-towners often leave raving about the entire weekend, not just the ceremony. That’s the kind of atmosphere Roger Sherman Inn taps into—it doesn’t just host weddings, it hosts experiences.
Seasonal Beauty and Local Touches
Depending on the time of year, New Canaan blooms in different ways. Spring brings dogwoods and magnolias; summer offers lush green backdrops and mild nights; autumn dazzles with fiery leaves and cozy sunsets; and winter? It’s straight out of a snow globe.
Couples can incorporate local, seasonal elements into their décor. Imagine fall arrangements with crisp apples, winter weddings with pine and berries, or spring centerpieces with lilac and peony. It’s easy to align your wedding theme with the natural charm of the town and venue.
Local Wedding Regulations and Vendor Accessibility
Here’s the good news—New Canaan is a wedding-friendly town with plenty of top-tier vendors nearby. You’ll find floral designers, makeup artists, bakers, and musicians all accustomed to working with Roger Sherman Inn and its layout.
As for legal logistics, Connecticut’s marriage license process is simple. Apply in person at the New Canaan Town Clerk’s Office, and you’re good to go—no long waits or bureaucratic red tape. This smooth process makes wedding planning that much less stressful.
Inside the Roger Sherman Inn: Details That Dazzle
Interior Elegance: Lighting, Décor, and Layout
Walk through the doors of the Roger Sherman Inn, and you’re instantly greeted by timeless sophistication. The interior speaks volumes without being loud—it's not dripping in crystal or gold, but rather dressed in understated elegance. Antique mirrors, period fireplaces, and warm wood accents complement plush furnishings and soft lighting, giving the entire venue a golden glow that’s nothing short of enchanting.
Couples have the option to host both their ceremony and reception indoors. The layout flows beautifully: from the entrance hall for guest greetings and welcome cocktails to the intimate dining areas that transform into stunning dinner spaces. The lighting is customizable—whether you're after romantic candlelit vibes or a brighter, modern setup for dancing.
It’s also worth noting the acoustics—live music or a curated playlist sounds incredible in the inn’s main rooms, which is a big win if you're planning speeches, string quartets, or a DJ set.
Outdoor Garden Ceremonies and Photo Opportunities
Let’s talk outdoor magic. One of the standout features of the Roger Sherman Inn is its private garden—a green haven that feels secluded yet completely accessible. The garden can be styled with floral arches, vintage chairs, or hanging lights, depending on your theme. Whether you're going for secret garden whimsy or polished countryside chic, the space adapts beautifully.
Golden hour in the garden? Absolutely breathtaking. I've seen couples time their vows perfectly as the sun dips behind the inn, casting that dreamy, cinematic light photographers go wild for.
And the photo ops? Endless. From ivy-covered stone walls and blooming perennials to the classic colonial facade of the inn itself—every angle is picturesque. There’s even an old tree that has become something of a signature photo spot for many newlyweds.
Guest Comfort and Exceptional Amenities
While the couple is often the focus, guest comfort plays a huge role in how the day is remembered. Thankfully, the Roger Sherman Inn scores big here too. The rooms are cozy and classy, perfect for out-of-town guests who want to stay right on-site.
On-site dining is a major perk. The inn is known for its culinary excellence—think locally sourced ingredients, artfully plated entrées, and desserts that’ll leave your guests speechless (in the best way). You can customize the menu entirely or select from curated seasonal options.
There’s also ample parking, easy access to local transportation, and a team of seasoned hospitality professionals on hand for every detail—from setting up the reception to helping Grandma find her seat with ease.
Customizing Your Wedding at the Inn
Personalized Menus and Local Cuisine
One of the most memorable elements of any wedding is the food, and Roger Sherman Inn takes this very seriously. The culinary team works closely with couples to craft menus that not only reflect their personal tastes but also take advantage of Connecticut’s seasonal bounty.
Imagine starting your reception with passed hors d'oeuvres like lobster crostini or mini beef wellingtons, followed by a plated entrée of roasted duck with blueberry reduction or wild mushroom risotto. Don’t forget the desserts—think lavender panna cotta, dark chocolate tortes, or even a custom cake baked in-house.
One couple I worked with was passionate about farm-to-table fare. The chef created a completely local menu—right down to the cheeses from nearby farms and fresh herbs from the inn’s garden. Guests are still talking about that dinner.
Custom Decor Themes and Table Settings
From modern minimalist to vintage glam, the inn provides a neutral yet elegant canvas for nearly any wedding theme. Whether you envision floral runners down long tables, tall centerpieces dripping with orchids, or boho-chic pampas grass arrangements, the décor options are endless.
Their team allows full creative freedom and even encourages couples to bring in personal touches like family heirlooms, framed photos, or customized signage. Add in candlelight, linen napkins in your chosen palette, and locally crafted favors, and you’ve got a tablescape that’s as memorable as the vows.
Table layout flexibility is also a win. You can go with traditional round tables, long banquet-style arrangements, or a mix of both to reflect your reception vibe.
Working with In-House and Local Wedding Planners
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but Roger Sherman Inn eases that pressure with in-house coordination support and strong relationships with some of the best wedding planners in the area. Whether you need full planning services or just day-of coordination, there’s a pro ready to help.
Local planners who are familiar with the inn know how to use every nook and cranny to your advantage. They’ve worked with Arugula Tango, local musicians, rental companies, and even local artisan bakeries to bring wedding visions to life. It’s a seamless process because everyone’s speaking the same “wedding language”—and they’ve done it here dozens of times before.
Floral Magic by Arugula Tango
Transformative Florals Tailored to Your Vision
No wedding is complete without flowers—and the floral artistry provided by Arugula Tango is nothing short of extraordinary. Known for blending modern sensibility with a touch of wild elegance, Arugula Tango brings every corner of the Roger Sherman Inn to life with blooms that feel like love letters.
Whether you’re dreaming of cascading greenery from chandeliers, a dramatic floral arch for your vows, or a soft, garden-style bouquet of blush peonies and eucalyptus, their team translates ideas into unforgettable arrangements. Every stem is handpicked, every color harmonized to enhance the venue’s natural charm.
Signature Bouquets and Ceremony Installations
Arugula Tango doesn’t just “do flowers”—they tell stories through petals. Their signature bridal bouquets are works of art, crafted to reflect your personality, style, and mood. Whether you’re elegant and refined or whimsical and bold, the team takes your vision and creates something truly one-of-a-kind.
One unforgettable ceremony setup included a circular floral altar of white hydrangeas, cream roses, and silver dollar eucalyptus—right in the garden’s center. Guests were completely enchanted, and the bride described it as “stepping into a dream.”
Behind the Scenes with Arugula Tango Designers
What sets Arugula Tango apart is their process. They don’t just throw together pretty arrangements—they spend time getting to know you. They ask about your story, your style, your favorite colors, even your dress. They consider the light, the season, and the surroundings. Then, they deliver florals that feel like a physical expression of your love.
You’ll find them on-site early, pinning boutonnieres with care, arranging each table centerpiece by hand, and making last-minute tweaks so everything is flawless.
What Real Couples Are Saying
Testimonials and Wedding Highlights
There’s no better way to gauge the magic of a venue than hearing it directly from those who’ve lived it. Couples who’ve tied the knot at the Roger Sherman Inn often describe their wedding as “storybook perfect,” “effortless elegance,” and “pure enchantment.” The recurring theme in these testimonials? It’s not just about the beautiful backdrop—it’s about how the space made them feel.
One bride wrote, “It felt like we were getting married in a European countryside estate. Everything from the staff to the garden ceremony to the midnight champagne toast was flawless.” Another groom noted, “We looked at over ten venues before stepping into the Roger Sherman Inn. Five minutes inside, and we just knew—this was it.”
These experiences highlight the inn’s ability to go beyond aesthetics and offer a deeply emotional, personal connection that lingers long after the last dance.
Before and After Stories: How the Inn Brought It All Together
Many couples arrive at the planning stage with just a vague idea—colors they love, a Pinterest board, maybe a few magazine cutouts. What makes the Roger Sherman Inn exceptional is how its staff and setting help turn that patchwork of ideas into a cohesive, stunning reality.
One couple envisioned a romantic, candlelit wedding but had no clue how to execute it. The venue team collaborated with Arugula Tango to create a warm, golden atmosphere with floating candles, floral runners, and soft drapery. The result? Pure magic.
Another couple wanted a summer garden wedding but feared rain. The staff seamlessly transitioned their setup to the indoor parlor in under an hour, preserving the floral arch and reconfiguring the seating. Guests barely noticed the shift—and the couple was beyond grateful.
Favorite Moments From the Dance Floor to Dessert
Every wedding has its unforgettable “moments”—and at Roger Sherman Inn, they tend to be plentiful.
The first dance under twinkling patio lights.
Champagne toasts on the wraparound porch.
That moment when the bride walks down the stone path toward the floral arch.
A surprise late-night snack station rolled out after the dance floor heats up.
One bride said, “Our guests still talk about the s’mores bar by the fire pit. It gave the reception this relaxed, family-reunion vibe—and it was the perfect way to close the night.”
Planning Your Day at Roger Sherman Inn
Sample Wedding Day Timeline
A smooth wedding day often hinges on careful planning, and Roger Sherman Inn offers plenty of flexibility. Here’s a sample timeline couples often follow:
10:00 AM – Bridal party arrives, hair & makeup setup in bridal suite
12:00 PM – Groom and groomsmen arrive
2:00 PM – Photographer arrives for getting-ready shots
4:00 PM – Ceremony in the garden
4:30 PM – Cocktail hour on the patio
5:30 PM – Guests move indoors for dinner
6:00 PM – Grand entrance and first dance
6:30 PM – Dinner service begins
7:30 PM – Speeches and toasts
8:00 PM – Cake cutting and dancing
10:00 PM – Late-night bites and outdoor mingling
11:00 PM – Last dance and farewell
This timeline can be adjusted for brunch weddings, micro-ceremonies, or extended receptions.
Vendor Checklist and Local Resources
New Canaan offers an incredible array of vendors—many of whom are familiar with the Roger Sherman Inn and can streamline the setup and tear-down process. Here’s a basic vendor checklist to get started:
Venue (Roger Sherman Inn)
Florals (Arugula Tango)
Photographer/Videographer
Hair and Makeup Artist
DJ or Live Band
Officiant
Cake or Dessert Vendor
Transportation (especially for out-of-town guests)
Rentals (if needed for larger-scale decor)
Many couples find that sticking with local vendors not only simplifies logistics but also supports the local community—something New Canaan couples especially appreciate.
Pro Tips for Seamless Execution
Hire a day-of coordinator: Even with a small wedding, having a point person ensures everything flows smoothly.
Confirm lighting options: The venue has multiple ambient settings. Choose what fits your mood—especially for evening transitions.
Coordinate florals with meal timing: Arugula Tango can adjust arrangements to accommodate tall or low centerpieces, depending on whether you’re serving plated meals or buffet style.
Plan for rain—but hope for sun: The staff can switch plans quickly if weather changes, so don’t stress. They’ve seen it all.
Budgeting for Your Dream Wedding in New Canaan
Venue Costs and Package Inclusions
One of the perks of hosting your wedding at Roger Sherman Inn is that it offers high-end ambiance without the shocking price tag. While costs can vary depending on the day, time of year, and guest count, most couples find the investment worth every penny for the level of service and charm the venue delivers.
Expect venue rental rates to range between $5,000–$9,000 depending on whether you opt for an indoor-outdoor combination, exclusive use, and specific day-of-the-week rates. This typically includes access to the ceremony and reception spaces, tables and chairs, some basic linens, and the full support of the staff during the event.
Catering, of course, is handled in-house and ranges from $100 to $175 per person based on menu selection and bar packages. A major advantage here is the quality of the food—the chef emphasizes locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that elevate the entire culinary experience.
Where to Save and Where to Splurge
Save On:
Invitations: Go digital or use semi-custom online designs.
Favors: A heartfelt note or locally sourced treat (like New Canaan honey) can go further than a keepsake no one uses.
Desserts: Rather than a three-tier fondant masterpiece, consider a smaller cake for display and sheet cake for serving.
Splurge On:
Photography: You’ll look back on these memories forever—hire someone whose style speaks to you.
Florals: Lush arrangements set the tone and vibe of your entire event.
Live Music: Whether it's a string quartet for the ceremony or a jazz band for cocktails, nothing adds class like live sound.
Stunning Seasonal Styling Ideas
Spring Elegance: Peonies and Garden Colors
Spring weddings at Roger Sherman Inn shine with soft palettes and lush, delicate blooms. Peonies, ranunculus, and tulips take center stage in blush, lilac, and pale peach tones. Dress up the garden ceremony space with floral arches and flowing ribbons for that romantic, garden-party vibe.
Pastel linen, gold-rimmed glassware, and light wood tables complete the look.
Summer Bloom: Bold Florals and Outdoor Bliss
Summer is prime time for bold colors—think fuchsia dahlias, coral roses, sunflowers, and fresh greenery. Outdoor ceremonies under the shade of the inn’s century-old trees are breathtaking. Accent with bright table runners, fresh lemonade stands, and floral centerpieces bursting with energy.
Consider lawn games or a live acoustic set during cocktail hour for extra fun.
Autumn Chic: Rustic Romance with Deep Tones
Fall weddings are magical in New Canaan. The changing leaves create a natural palette of reds, oranges, and deep golds. Complement that with burgundy peonies, dried grasses, and navy linens. Rustic wooden accents, flickering candles, and a warm apple cider bar will seal the cozy autumnal charm.
Winter Wonderland: Candles, Firs, and Magic
If you love twinkle lights, hot drinks, and timeless elegance, winter might be your season. Roger Sherman Inn becomes a glowing haven with evergreen garlands, snowy white florals, and sparkling decor. Think amaryllis, white roses, pinecones, and cranberries.
Offer guests blankets, mulled wine, and a fireplace photo booth for a winter fairytale feel.
Memorable Extras for a Signature Experience
Live Music, Photo Booths, and Specialty Cocktails
Want to wow your guests? Go beyond the basics with experiential elements. Bring in a jazz trio for cocktail hour, or hire a DJ who mixes classics with your personal playlist. Custom cocktails named after your pets or hometowns? Always a hit.
Photo booths with quirky props are crowd favorites—and keep guests entertained while you take portraits.
Local Favors and Guest Welcome Bags
Show off New Canaan’s charm by incorporating local treats into your guest experience. Mini maple syrup bottles, artisan chocolates, or handmade soaps from nearby boutiques make thoughtful and practical favors.
Create welcome bags with a local map, a personalized note, snacks, and a small candle or lavender sachet to thank guests for making the trip.
Creating Instagram-Worthy Moments
From floral installations to neon signs, don’t shy away from those “wow” elements. Whether it’s a champagne tower, a flower wall, or a custom lounge area, these pieces add style and social media buzz to your day.
A couple I worked with recently had a vintage bicycle covered in flowers at the garden entrance. It became the photo of the night.
Conclusion
Weddings at the Roger Sherman Inn aren’t just events—they’re experiences woven with charm, grace, and unforgettable moments. With its elegant atmosphere, exceptional service, and lush surroundings, it’s the kind of place where every love story feels right at home.
Whether you’re saying your vows in the garden at golden hour or dancing under the soft glow of antique chandeliers, this venue wraps your day in a warmth and wonder you—and your guests—will remember forever. Add Arugula Tango’s floral artistry, and you've got magic on every table and in every bouquet.
So if you're dreaming of a wedding that’s as meaningful as it is magical, the Roger Sherman Inn in New Canaan, CT, is waiting to make it real.