At The Newport Experience, we specialize in turning dream events into reality at our stunning oceanfront venues, rich with Newport’s sailing legacy and New England charm. From weddings to corporate functions, our dedicated team ensures every event is unforgettable. Beyond hosting events, we’re proud to give back to the community by donating private charters on our 101’ Schooner Aurora to local charitable organizations. Led by a talented team of professionals, we’re committed to excellence and always looking ahead to elevate our brand and enhance guest experiences. Read more about our journey and vision for 2025, featured in HeyRhody.
The much-anticipated YachtDoc Bash Friendraiser, held at OceanCliff on March 1, celebrated a special milestone—newportFILM’s 15th anniversary—while raising an impressive $50,000 to support its year-round documentary programming. The celebration blended style, music, and good vibes, all while supporting an amazing cause.
Kicking Things Off in Style | The night kicked off with stunning views of Narragansett Bay as guests arrived in their best yacht rock-inspired attire—think oversized sunglasses, flowy blazers, and retro vibes. The festive atmosphere set the stage for dancing, cocktails, and an unforgettable time.
The Yacht Rock Theme Was On Point | Inspired by the YACHT ROCK: A DOCUMENTARY screening from newportFILM’s November 2024 lineup, the event fully embraced the chill yet stylish essence of yacht rock. Guests went all-in with their outfits, channeling the best of the ‘70s and ‘80s, adding a playful throwback vibe to the night.
Good Food, Good Drinks, and Even Better Vibes | Of course, the YachtDoc Bash wasn’t just about the theme—it was about great food, yummy cocktails, and a non-stop party. Guests were treated to delicious bites, refreshing signature drinks, and live music that had everyone up and dancing.
The raffle was also a big hit, offering everything from exclusive experiences to luxury goodies. It added an extra layer of fun and kept the crowd engaged throughout the event.
Supporting a Cause That Matters | The YachtDoc Bash was not only a celebration but also a fundraiser for newportFILM, with proceeds supporting their year-round programming, including the summer Outdoors series and educational initiatives. We’re proud to support such an important cause that enriches the Newport community.
Huge Thanks to Our Partners | A big shoutout to our amazing event partners, Ryan Designs and Gold’s Wine and Spirits, whose contributions helped make the night even more special. Their creativity and support really elevated the event and brought the entire vision to life.
A Night to Remember | As the night wrapped up, it was clear the YachtDoc Bash was a major hit. Guests left with smiles, memories, and a sense of pride knowing they’d supported an incredible cause. At OceanCliff, we love hosting events that bring people together, and this was a perfect example of combining fun, culture, and philanthropy into one unforgettable night.
We can’t wait for more events like this and are excited to see what’s next for newportFILM.
We had an absolute blast participating in the seventh annual Mac & Cheese Smackdown during the Newport Winter Festival! The event was held at the Newport Marriott, and the atmosphere was electric as foodies flooded in, ready to sample and vote for the best mac-n-cheese. The competition was real, with a total of twelve incredible local restaurants competing for the top spot, and we were thrilled to be part of it all.
The day was filled with endless flavors—it was no small task to choose the best among so many creative and delicious takes on mac-n-cheese. Our dish—a rich four-cheese mac (gouda, gruyere, parmesan, and extra sharp cheddar)—was topped off with brown butter parmesan toasted breadcrumbs, which we proudly presented to the crowd.
The competition began with Wharf Southern Kitchen and their Guinness cheese sauce mac, followed by Safari Room showcasing our signature four-cheese blend. From there, the tasting journey continued with everything from brisket-loaded macs to lobster Florentine creations. Despite the amazing variety of dishes, the response to our mac-n-cheese was fantastic, with many voters praising its creamy texture and savory breadcrumbs. We loved hearing feedback and seeing how each unique take sparked different opinions. Some even suggested that the competition needed categories like “Best Classic” and “Most Creative,” and we couldn’t agree more—it was such a fun, dynamic event!
At 3:30pm, the winners were announced. We were absolutely thrilled to take home third place—and even more excited to be recognized for having the best décor of the event! The entire experience was a fantastic reminder of the amazing talent and creativity within our community. The winners from Rising Tide Barbeque—an impressive first-year contender—deservedly took the first-place spot, and Skiff Bar came in second, with everyone celebrating the spirit of the competition.
It was a day filled with delicious mac, camaraderie, and friendly competition. Thank you to everyone who voted for our dish and made this such a memorable experience for all of us at Safari Room! We’ll definitely be back next year, ready to cook up more cheesy goodness and bring even more fun to the festival!
Exciting news from the historic Stone House Inn! We were recently featured in The Bay magazine for something truly special—our collaboration with the incredibly talented artist, Occipital (a.k.a. Giana Sacco). If you haven’t checked out the full article yet, grab a coffee, get cozy, and dive in here
Giana Sacco, better known in the art world as Occipital, is making waves with her stark, expressive human figures that seem to dance across the canvas. Inspired by motion and emotion, her elongated black-and-white figures have drawn comparisons to Picasso sketches and Giacometti sculptures. And guess what? You don’t have to travel to a big-city gallery to see them—you can experience them right here at Stone House Inn!
These works, ranging from 20×30-inch to 36×72-inch canvases, are part of Occipital’s Form, Perspective, and Fluidity collections. Each piece brings its own story, whether it’s a reflection of the fast-paced energy of New York City or a quiet exploration of movement and space. Nestled amongst the inn’s fireplaces, deep-soaking tubs, and serene coastal atmosphere, these artworks create a one-of-a-kind experience for our guests.
We’re beyond thrilled to have Occipital’s art as part of the Stone House Inn aesthetic and can’t wait for more visitors to appreciate her work in person. So whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a wedding, or just passing through, make sure to take a moment to soak in the creativity that now graces our walls.
Want to learn more about Occipital and her work? Visit OccipitalNYC.com and be sure to follow along for more exciting artistic collaborations at Stone House Inn!
Big news, friends! Our beloved OceanCliff Hotel has been featured in Style Me Pretty, and we couldn’t be more excited! If you haven’t seen it yet, stop what you’re doing (okay, maybe finish reading this first) and check out the full article here.
This wedding was an absolute chef’s kiss of elegance, romance, and straight-up Mediterranean magic. Imagine soft ocean breezes, sun-kissed stone terraces, and an aesthetic that screams “Santorini meets Newport.” The couple, inspired by their love for all things coastal and European, transformed our waterfront venue into a dreamy escape worthy of a destination wedding—without the hassle of a passport!
From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted with crisp whites and ocean blues, lush greenery, and candle-lit ambiance that made the whole evening feel like a scene from a romantic movie. And let’s talk about the food—because, let’s be honest, no Mediterranean-inspired wedding is complete without a feast. We’re talking fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and olive-oil-drizzled everything. Bellissimo!
The ceremony took place on our picturesque lawn, overlooking Narragansett Bay, where the couple exchanged vows with the Atlantic as their witness. (Cue the collective aww from all of us.) The reception? A lively celebration with dancing under the stars, breathtaking views, and a whole lot of love.
It’s always an honor to be part of such special moments, and we’re thrilled that Style Me Pretty recognized the magic of this day. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like an effortless European getaway without leaving the U.S., OceanCliff is calling your name.
Check out the full feature and get inspired—your dream wedding could be next!
In case you need an excuse to enjoy a midweek outing, we’ve got you covered! Join us on the Safari Room lawn at OceanCliff on Wednesdays all summer long for our Whispering Wednesdays series, featuring Whispering Angel rosé.
Bring your friends and soak in the views overlooking the Narragansett Bay from the comfort of our Adirondack chairs. You won’t find a better way to beat the summer heat than sitting under the shade of our pink umbrellas with the salty sea breeze blowing off the bay!
For a classic experience, enjoy a “Bucket of Roses” (a team favorite!), which includes four mini bottles of Whispering Angel rosé. If you’re looking for something a little stronger, we’re also serving up specialty rosé cocktails featured only on Wednesdays or take our Sales Manager, Susanne Day’s, advice and “ask the Safari bartenders to make a ‘Tequila Cosmo.’ It’s pink for Whispering Wednesdays and a favorite for summer 2024 in Newport.”
Our Lite Bites menu is available all day and our full menu starts at 4pm. You’ll find plenty of delicious pairing options from raw bar and small plates to our signature charcuterie board and lobster roll.
You can’t miss this quintessential summer activity – so grab a friend, snag a seat, and join us on the lawn where we’ll be pouring rosé all Wednesday long!
While winter is traditionally a slower season for nuptials, a winter wedding at OceanCliff is truly magical! With our roaring fireplaces and romantic architecture, OceanCliff provides the perfect romantic setting for your special day. Your wedding party can get cozy in our 24 guestrooms and dance the night away in our gorgeous ballroom overlooking Narragansett Bay.
Planning a winter wedding in Newport, RI can have many benefits, such as:
Off-season weddings are typically less expensive. If you’re on a budget you’ll get the most bang for your buck from December–February or even early March.
Choose from a wider selection of available dates. Since winter isn’t exactly wedding prime time, your venue and vendors should have more availability on their calendars. Which means you’ll have a better chance of securing the date of your dreams with your favorite venue + vendor team.
Avoid the summer crowds and traffic, and have more availability and flexibility for your preferred date and time.
Your guests won’t be slammed with wedding invites. Or travel plans! Which means more of them will be eager to attend your event. Just be aware that winter’s got a lot of holidays, so plan your date accordingly.
Enjoy the cozy and romantic atmosphere of Newport’s historic hotels, mansions and fireplaces, which can create a magical backdrop for your special day.
SNOWFLAKE PACKAGE AT OCEANCLIFF
Valid Fridays and Sundays December-March 2026 & 2027. Average cost $197/per person (based with 75 guests).
Package includes:
Complimentary Luxury Guest Room for Wedding Night Stay
20% off additional guestrooms
One hour of open bar – beer and wine
Four passed hors d’oeuvres, choice of two entrees, champagne toast
Complimentary Ceremony Package
Complimentary parking for all guests
Start planning your dream winter wedding today! Call 401.619.7924 or submit an inquiry here.
Check out these Winter Weddings at OceanCliff and our Pinterest boards for more ideas and inspiration!
Every year, Pantone sets the tone for design and fashion with its Color of the Year. In 2024, the spotlight is on the enchanting and sophisticated Peach Fuzz. This warm and inviting hue is a perfect choice for weddings, bringing a touch of romance and timeless elegance to your special day. In this blog post, we’ll explore creative ways to incorporate Peach Fuzz into various aspects of your wedding, from bridesmaid dresses and florals to linens and signature drinks.
Bridesmaid Dresses: The bridesmaids’ attire sets the tone for the entire wedding color palette. Peach Fuzz is a versatile color that complements a variety of skin tones, making it an excellent choice for bridesmaid dresses. Consider dressing your bridal party in flowing Peach Fuzz gowns for a soft and ethereal look. Whether you choose floor-length or knee-length dresses, the color will add a touch of sophistication to your wedding party.
Florals: Bring the beauty of Peach Fuzz into your floral arrangements to create a cohesive and visually stunning atmosphere. Incorporate blooms such as peonies, roses, and dahlias in shades of peach, coral, and ivory for a harmonious blend. Bouquets, centerpieces, and aisle decorations in this warm hue will create a romantic and inviting atmosphere. Adding lush greenery will provide a natural balance, creating a dreamy and romantic ambiance that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Linens and Decor: Elevate your wedding decor with Peach Fuzz linens and table settings. From tablecloths and napkins to chair covers, this color adds a subtle yet impactful touch. Combine Peach Fuzz with complementary colors like ivory, gold, or sage green for a sophisticated and harmonious aesthetic. Consider adding Peach Fuzz accent pieces, such as candles or napkin rings, to tie everything together seamlessly.
Invitations and Stationery: Set the tone for your wedding with Peach Fuzz-themed invitations, save-the-dates, and programs. Use the color for accents and details, creating a cohesive and visually appealing stationery suite. Embellish your invitations with Peach Fuzz ribbons or wax seals for an extra touch of elegance.
Signature Drinks: Incorporate Peach Fuzz into your signature drinks for a delightful and visually pleasing touch. From peach-infused cocktails to fruity mocktails, there are endless possibilities. Consider offering a refreshing Peach Fuzz Bellini or a custom-named drink that pays homage to your chosen color.
Wedding Cake: The wedding cake is a focal point of any reception, and Peach Fuzz can play a significant role in enhancing its beauty. Consult with your cake designer to incorporate the color into the frosting, floral decorations, or even as a subtle ombre effect. A Peach Fuzz cake is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Pantone’s Color of the Year, Peach Fuzz, offers a sophisticated and timeless palette for your dream wedding. From bridesmaid dresses to florals, linens, and beyond, incorporating this enchanting hue into various aspects of your celebration will create a cohesive and elegant atmosphere. Embrace the warmth and romance of Peach Fuzz to make your wedding a truly memorable and visually stunning experience.
Why we love midweek weddings and why you should consider hosting one too!
In the world of wedding planning, Saturdays have long been hailed as the prime day for tying the knot. However, a new trend is emerging, and couples are discovering the hidden gems of midweek weddings. If you’re contemplating the perfect day for your celebration, consider the advantages of hosting a midweek wedding.
In this post, we’ll explore the all of the benefits that make midweek weddings an increasingly popular choice for couples seeking a unique and memorable experience.
So who hosts midweek weddings and why? Here’s the inside scoop revealed!
Specific Dates: Sometimes it’s a special anniversary like a first date or engagement date or grandparent’s anniversary or loved one’s birthday that has passed. Some cultures have auspicious dates that are more preferred. If it lands in midweek–don’t rule it out!
Venue Availability & Flexibility: Midweek weddings often provide greater availability and flexibility when it comes to securing your dream venue. Popular venues tend to book up quickly on weekends, but you may find more open dates and favorable pricing options for a Wednesday celebration.
Cost Savings: Hosting your wedding on a Wednesday can be a savvy financial move. Many vendors offer midweek discounts, allowing you to allocate your budget more efficiently. From venue rental fees to catering costs, you might find that your dream wedding is more affordable on a weekday.
Travel and Accommodations: Midweek weddings can be more convenient for out-of-town guests. Flights and accommodations are often more affordable midweek, making it easier for loved ones to attend and share in your joy.
Extended Celebration: While weekend weddings are limited to a day or a weekend, a midweek celebration allows for an extended wedding experience. You can plan pre-wedding activities, post-wedding brunches, and more, turning your special day into a week-long celebration.
Local Couples: If the venue is within a short drive from their home guests can attend the wedding and drive home after—or just spend one night without a multi-night stay required by the hotel (example: Friday-Saturday). Hotels usually offer lower pricing Monday-Thursday too!
Short Engagement: Some couples don’t want to wait. They want to start family planning, travel, buy a home, or have lots of weddings in the next year. They prefer a short planning window as it helps to make decisions faster. While the average length of engagements is 16 months—this is the average—some couples are engaged for 30 days and some for 10yrs—there is no timeline on your personal planning.
Vendor Availability: Securing your preferred vendors is often easier during the middle of the week. If the most important thing is a specific photographer, videographer, band or DJ and they only have certain dates open you may choose your venue and wedding date around their schedule. From photographers to florists, you’ll likely have more options and a better chance of booking your first choices for all the essential wedding services.
Unique Experiences: Some packages are only offered midweek and for smaller guest counts. At Regatta Place in Newport, RI the Schooner Aurora is a 68-passenger antique sailing yacht and can be used for a special ceremony at sea followed by dockside reception with dinner and dancing. At OceanCliff Hotel, we offer a Snowflake Winter Wedding Package that includes a complimentary ceremony, discounted guest rooms and more!
Guest Counts: It’s a great way to cut the list. The people that matter the most will always attend. We mostly see 10-20% drop off from invited to actual guest attendance.
Work Schedules: Lots of people don’t have Monday-Friday 9-5 schedules like wedding pros, hospitality pros, service providers so midweek works for them and their friends so they can work the weekends!
Final Piece of Advice—don’t rule out a venue because you think it’s outside of your budget. Reach out to your dream venue and tell them your guest count and budget then ask which options are best for you. They may guide you to a different season or day of the week or suggest a lower priced menu/bar combination. It’s also a good idea to start a conversation about what’s really important to you as a couple and as a family before you start your venue search. Firm up the budget and guest count and then determine how flexible you can be overall. Starting off with a wedding planner can also be a smart way to maximize your time and budget as they work with so many venues for local and destination planning.
Conclusion: As you embark on the journey of wedding planning, don’t overlook the advantages of hosting your celebration during the week. From cost savings to a more intimate atmosphere, a midweek wedding can offer a unique and memorable experience for both you and your guests.
To learn more about the advantages of hosting a midweek wedding, check out this podcast from Sara Zarella, of Sara Zarella Photography and our very own Susanne Day, Sales Manager with The Newport Experience.
