The Wedding Planner
Connecticut Renaissance Faire
Interview by Grace Sydney
Photos courtesy Eric Tetreault

Considering a Renaissance wedding? Recently we interviewed Maggie Appleton, Wedding Coordinator for the Connecticut Renaissance Faire, held every September and October, for her tips on brides who want to celebrate their special day at one of the faires.

What do you feel is the appeal of a Renaissance faire wedding?

Many children dream of a "Fairy Tale Wedding" and a Renaissance Faire is a perfect place to re-enact some of those earliest wedding fantasies.

The Renaissance Faire is romantic and playful. This appeals to many couples. It also takes a lot of the hassle out of planning a Renaissance theme wedding anywhere else, as the entertainment and ambience is already provided. It is considered a unique venue which is also appealing to many couples.

Where on the grounds of The Connecticut Renaissance Faire are weddings held? How can the bridal party contribute to the Old World atmosphere?

We currently have a wonderfully scenic area set aside within the Faire for weddings. This includes a reception tent which can double as wedding area in inclement weather.

We can easily accommodate up to 50 guests and can expand beyond if necessary. The area is already decorated but can be customized to the wedding party colors as well as personalized by either the couple themselves or us. The bride and groom can also contribute to the overall atmosphere, starting with encouraging the guests to arrive in renaissance garb or informing them that there are costume rental vendors on site. Also, including information sheets with their invitations so the guests know what to expect can be useful as well. Our wedding coordinators are happy to advise the couple on how they can make their special day more interactive and immersive.

Are weddings at the faire private affairs, or are they typically enjoyed by visitors to the festival?

The wedding area is generally roped off for invited guests of the Bride and Groom unless they request to open it to the faire patrons, otherwise visitors to the Faire can and do watch from the sidelines and enjoy.

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