PLANNING

Effortlessly Plan Your Dream Event

Let us make the planning process simple and enjoyable. Discover décor, menu options, and more. Start by downloading our Quick Guide, packed with essential policies, reminders, and tips for your big day.

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Décor Options to Match Your Style

LINEN COLORS

Enhance your wedding’s elegance with a curated selection of tablecloth and napkin hues, perfectly complementing your color palette and theme.

LINEN COLORS
DÉCOR UPGRADES

DÉCOR UPGRADES

Enhance your event atmosphere with our exclusive decor upgrades. Discover unique accents and premium styling options to perfectly personalize your celebration.

DÉCOR UPGRADES

Craft your dream wedding

Download our Wedding Package to explore all the elegant details that make Waterview the perfect setting for your celebration, and discover our Custom Stations Menu for a dining experience that adds a unique touch to your special day.

FLOORPLANS AND SEATING CHARTS

WEST BALLROOM

Explore the floor plan and seating layout for a classic celebration of up to 170 guests.

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EAST BALLROOM

Explore the floor plan and seating layout for a large gathering of up to 170 guests.

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GRAND BALLROOM

Explore the floor plan and seating layout for a grand celebration of up to 450 guests.

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OUR RECOMMENDED VENDORS

Our recommended vendors have been carefully selected for their exceptional service and experience at The Candlewood Inn. You’re also welcome to bring in your own trusted professionals to complete your celebration.

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Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the wedding package?

Our wedding packages include the use of the venue, tables, chairs, linens, culinary service, professional staff, and planning support from our experienced team. Your coordinator will guide you through all details leading up to your wedding day.

What payment methods do you accept?

After booking The Candlewood Inn for your Wedding Celebration, your next step is to secure your vendors, such as a florist, photographer, and a DJ/Band. You may reference our recommended vendor list as a helpful starting point.

We accept cash, certified or bank checks, and wire transfers. We do not accept credit or debit cards.

After booking The Candlewood Inn for your Wedding Celebration, your next step is to secure your vendors, such as a florist, photographer, and a DJ/Band. You may reference our recommended vendor list as a helpful starting point.

When is final payment due?

Your final invoice is issued two weeks before your wedding, once final guest counts are confirmed. Final payment is due one week prior to your event.

What is the operational charge?

Our 20% operational charge is not a gratuity. It covers planning services, venue use, staffing, linens, and property maintenance. This fee is taxable under Connecticut law.

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not included in our per-person pricing. If you would like guidance, our General Manager is happy to assist.

Is there a guest minimum?

Your contracted guest minimum is outlined in your signed agreement. Please reach out with any questions, we’re happy to clarify.

When can we arrive on our wedding day?

Couples have access to the wedding suite beginning two hours prior to their event start time. Additional time may be arranged in advance, based on availability.

Is parking available for guests?

Yes. The Waterview offers ample onsite parking for guests, and we also accommodate shuttle transportation when needed.

Is the venue handicap accessible?

Yes. We offer ramp access at the main entrance, elevators to access the lower level, and accessible restroom facilities.

Can shuttle buses remain onsite during the reception?

Yes. Shuttles may park in designated areas. Please note Connecticut law prohibits vehicle idling beyond three minutes.

Can we use vendors not on your recommended list?

Yes. All vendors must provide proof of $1,000,000 general liability insurance naming The Waterview as additionally insured at least one month prior to the event.

When can vendors arrive?

Vendors may arrive two hours before event start time.

Are vendors permitted to drink alcohol?

No. Vendors may not consume alcohol during your event.

Do vendors need to be seated with guests?

No. We provide vendor meals and seating separately.

Do you offer menu tastings?

We host a complimentary annual tasting showcase for booked couples featuring a wide selection of offerings. Individual entrée tastings are not provided.

When is our décor drop-off appointment?

Drop-off appointments are scheduled midweek prior to your wedding and typically last 30–60 minutes.

Can we schedule a walkthrough before the wedding?

Absolutely. Weekday walkthroughs are available for booked couples.

Can we host both our ceremony and reception at The Waterview?

Yes. Many couples choose to host their entire wedding day with us. Our lakefront ceremony spaces and elegant reception areas allow for a seamless transition from ceremony to cocktail hour to reception.

What makes your ceremony space unique?

Our outdoor ceremony spaces overlook Lake Zoar and provide a beautiful natural backdrop for your vows, creating a memorable experience for both you and your guests.

Do you provide sound equipment for the ceremony?

Our ceremony locations do not have a built-in audio system. Your DJ or ceremony musician will provide the sound equipment needed for microphones and music. Power outlets are available at the ceremony site to support their setup.

What happens if it rains?

We always have a beautiful indoor ceremony option prepared so your day can continue smoothly regardless of the weather.

Do you help coordinate the ceremony?

Yes. Our experienced team guides your ceremony processional and ensures everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

Do you offer rehearsals?

We guide your ceremony processional on the day of your wedding, so a rehearsal is typically unnecessary. If you would like to schedule one earlier in the week, a rehearsal may be arranged for an additional fee.

Can guests arrive early?

Guests should arrive at the designated start time. We anticipate arrivals up to 30 minutes prior to ceremony time.

What types of décor are allowed? Not allowed?

Flower petals, floral arrangements, and lanterns are allowed. For your safety and the safety of your guests, we do not allow open flame candles, aisle runners, aisle wraps or confetti.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes! Dogs are welcome to join outdoor ceremonies and photos. For their comfort and safety, we ask that they be taken home from the property immediately afterward.

What is the typical flow of a wedding reception at The Waterview?

Most celebrations begin with an onsite ceremony, which flows directly into cocktail hour, followed by dinner and dancing in our ballroom. Our team works closely with your vendors to ensure the evening flows seamlessly.

What makes receptions at The Waterview unique?

Our lakefront setting, elegant ballroom, and attentive service create a warm and memorable atmosphere for you and your guests.

How long is the reception?

Reception length is determined by your contract, and our team will help guide your timeline so you can make the most of your celebration.

Are fun bridal party entrances allowed?

Absolutely! We love the energy, we simply ask that no shots, confetti, or real petals are involved.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes. Please provide allergy and dietary information when you plan your menu so we can plan accordingly.

Are candles permitted?

Yes, candles must be enclosed in glass. Open-flame candelabras are not permitted.

Are fog machines, sparklers, or confetti allowed?

We do not permit fog machines, CO₂ effects, indoor sparklers, lantern releases, or confetti. Dry ice “cloud effect” machines are permitted through licensed and insured vendors.

Are fireworks allowed?

Fireworks over the lake are allowed through a licensed vendor only, and permits must be secured in advance through the Monroe Fire Marshal.

Will you set up our décor items?

We are happy to set up items delivered in table-ready condition. Additional setup (assembly, design, decorating) is available through your Event Coordinator for an additional fee.

Does the Waterview provide a mailbox for gift envelopes?

Yes, Waterview provides a secure, locked mailbox for collection of guest cards and envelopes. The box will be unlocked by your Coordinator at the end of the event in your presence.

Can guests take leftover food home?

Guests may take home leftovers from their plated meal. Station items may not be packed.

Do you provide a wedding cake?

Yes. A four-tiered wedding cake is included in our package. Our talented culinary team will prepare your wedding cake to your specifications: we offer a variety of cake flavors and fillings as well as design options. Custom requests can also be accommodated, please reach out to your Event Coordinator for pricing.

Do you provide alternatives to wedding cake?

Yes. We offer a variety of dessert options including dessert stations and plated desserts. If you would still like to include a cake cutting moment, we can also provide a small personal cake.

Can we display our cake before dessert service?

Absolutely. Many couples choose to have their cake displayed during the reception as part of their décor and photography moments.

Can we include additional dessert stations?

Yes! Many couples enhance their reception with dessert stations, late-night treats, or sweet tables. Our team can help you design options that complement your menu and timeline.

What type of bar service do you offer?

The Waterview offers full-service bar packages featuring premium spirits, wines, and beers. Our professional bartenders handle all service so you and your guests can relax and enjoy the celebration.

Can we customize the bar menu?

Yes. Many couples choose to create signature cocktails or highlight favorite wines and spirits. Our team is happy to help you curate options that reflect your style.

Do you offer specialty cocktails?

Absolutely. Signature cocktails are a wonderful way to personalize your reception and are a popular addition to cocktail hour or bar service.

What non-alcoholic options are available?

We provide a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails for guests who prefer them.

Can we bring outside alcohol?

Outside alcohol is not permitted. Our licensed bar program ensures safe, professional service throughout your event.

Are shots allowed?

Shots are not permitted for the safety of all guests.

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Your special day can be everything you imagine. Contact us today for more information, availability and to schedule a tour.

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