2025s Fairmont Copley Plaza Wedding Planning Guide
A complete guide to planning your wedding at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. Explore ceremony spots, catering, nearby churches, accommodations, and photo locations.
2025s Fairmont Copley Plaza Wedding Planning Guide
The Fairmont Copley Plaza is a premier luxury hotel in Boston, offering an array of elegant options for couples planning their dream wedding. From the grandeur of the Grand Ballroom to the timeless beauty of the Oval Room, this venue can accommodate both intimate gatherings and large-scale celebrations with ease.
With exceptional catering led by Executive Chef Zaid Khan, guests are treated to a curated culinary experience that highlights the best of Boston's flavors. From exquisite food to perfectly paired wines, every detail contributes to an unforgettable celebration at one of the best Boston wedding venues.
The Fairmont Copley Plaza also offers numerous stunning photo locations, making your wedding photography effortless. Its historic charm, elegant architecture, and versatile spaces provide countless backdrops for portraits, first looks, and family photos. Over the years, couples who marry at the Fairmont Copley Plaza have been drawn to my documentary wedding photography style. In fact, I’ve had the privilege of photographing more weddings here than at any other venue in Boston.
In this article, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about the Fairmont Copley Plaza during my time photographing weddings and help you plan your Boston wedding.
Wedding Ceremonies at The Fairmont Copley Plaza
The Fairmont Copley Plaza is a historic hotel in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, and a sought-after wedding venue in Boston. The hotel offers two stunning options for your wedding ceremony: the Oval Room and the Grand Ballroom.
The Oval Room features an enchanting atmosphere with sparkling crystal chandeliers, intricate hand-carved molding, elegant French doors, and a breathtaking ceiling mural. On the other hand, the Grand Ballroom is the largest ceremony space at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, offering a state-of-the-art audio-visual system, stunning gold-accented design, and an impressive 6,090 square feet of space.
The Oval Room:
If you love the idea of exchanging your vows in a room filled with crystal chandeliers, the Oval Room at the Fairmont Copley Plaza might be perfect for you. This stunning room can seat over 320 people and offers a romantic and elegant ambiance. The Oval Room is ideal for capturing beautiful wedding photos with its high ceilings, ceiling mural, and French doors and windows. You'll feel like you're in a fairytale as you dance with your partner under the sparkling atmosphere. The hand-carved molding and classic architecture add to the timeless charm of the space, creating a truly unforgettable wedding ceremony.
The Grand Ballroom:
The Grand Ballroom at the Fairmont Copley Plaza is a versatile and stunning location for exchanging your wedding vows. The room is the most prominent ceremony location available and offers state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, allowing you to create a personalized wedding experience. The room's gold accents and stunning design create a luxurious atmosphere, making it the perfect location for a grand wedding ceremony. With 6,090 square feet of space, the Grand Ballroom can accommodate even the largest wedding parties. If you're looking for a beautiful location to exchange your wedding vows, the Grand Ballroom at the Fairmont Copley Plaza is a great option.
These are just some of the features of the Oval Room and Grand Ballroom. The venue's wedding planners will help you decide which location is best and give you ceremony tips to ensure a stress-free ceremony.
Cocktail Hour at Fairmont Copley Plaza Weddings
Cocktail hour is one of my favorite parts of the day to photograph. The energy between the couple and their friends and family is exciting. At Fairmont Copley Plaza, cocktail hour is hosted in one of two rooms, depending on your reception location.
When I photographed weddings in the Oval Room, the cocktail hour was in the Venetian Room. This room is located on the first floor and is connected to the Oval. It is 2,068 square feet and features beautiful Venetian glass chandeliers. The room's luxurious decor sets the tone for a sophisticated cocktail hour experience.
On the other hand, you are having your wedding reception in the Grand Ballroom, while the cocktail hour is hosted in the Ballroom Foyer. The foyer, which is 2,068 square feet and adjacent to the Grand Ballroom, makes a convenient and seamless transition for guests. It features stunning marble floors, soaring ceilings, and a beautiful fountain that adds an element of grandeur to the cocktail hour ambiance.
Wedding Receptions at The Fairmont Copley Plaza
Wedding Receptions in The Oval Room at The Fairmont Copley Plaza
The Oval Room at the Fairmont Copley Plaza is one option for a wedding reception. Its elegant ambiance and exquisite décor make it a romantic setting for any reception. Its hand-carved molding, French doors and windows, and stunning ceiling mural provide a luxurious backdrop for your special day. The room can accommodate up to 320 guests, making it perfect for more significant celebrations.
Wedding Receptions in The Grand Ballroom at The Fairmont Copley Plaza
The Grand Ballroom is the other option for a wedding reception at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. With a state-of-the-art audio-visual system and stunning design, the Grand Ballroom is a versatile space that can be customized to suit any style or theme. Its gold accents and grand chandeliers create a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for an unforgettable reception. With 6,090 square feet of space, the Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 550 guests, making it ideal for large-scale celebrations. Weddings at the Fairmont Copley Plaza end around 11:00 - 11:30 pm.
Fairmont Copley Plaza Catering
The catering at Fairmont Copley Plaza is a culinary experience to remember. Executive Chef Zaid Khan has created curated menus focusing on local ingredients that highlight the flavors of New England. From seasonal ingredients hand-picked at the Copley Square Farmers Market to honey sourced from their rooftop bee hives, the Fairmont promises an authentic culinary journey. With 110 years of experience, delectable food, wine, and exemplary service have been central to the mission of Fairmont Copley Plaza. Chef Zaid Khan's appreciation for unpretentious and simple flavors shines through in every dish, making the catering at the Fairmont Copley Plaza an unforgettable experience for guests.
Wedding Photo Locations at Fairmont Copley Plaza
Over the years, I have found The Fairmont Copley Plaza offers endless Boston wedding photo locations perfect for portraits during golden hour, first looks, and family photos. The hotel is across the street from the iconic Boston Plaza Square, has stunning architecture, and offers excellent light during golden hour. The Fairmont Copley Hallway is another excellent location for a wedding portrait with its elegant decor and intricate details.
Consider the deck next to the hotel's gym if you're looking for a unique outdoor photo location. This spot offers beautiful city views and is perfect if you have planned a first look at your wedding timeline. I like this photo location because it provides a private and quiet area for you during your first look.
For easy family photos, we recommend taking pictures in the exact location where your wedding ceremony will take place.
For large group photos, I like to photograph them in the lobby of the Fairmont Copley Plaza, which provides enough room for wedding parties or extended family photos. The lobby has a rich history and beautiful architecture, and the Fairmont Copley Plaza will provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. This is also a great option if you need a rain plan for your wedding party and family photos.
A Wedding Day Timeline at the Fairmont Copley Plaza
Planning a wedding at the Fairmont Copley Plaza requires thoughtful coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly. Below is a timeline from a recent celebration I photographed at this Boston wedding venue, highlighting the day's seamless flow and the vendors' exceptional contributions.
Vendor Team Credits
Hair and Makeup // Charlotte Phinney
Entertainment // Ripcord Band
Floral // Petals, Inc.
Calligraphy // Emily Gallardo Calligraphy
Lighting Design // Frost Productions
Day of Wedding Coordination // With Out a Hitch
Photography & Videography // Mark Davidson Photography
Morning: Getting Ready
9:00 AM: The bride and bridal party began hair and makeup with Charlotte Phinney and her team in one of the luxurious suites at the Fairmont Copley Plaza. The groom and groomsmen got ready in a separate suite and were dressed in elegant attire from J. Hilburn.
12:00 PM: Lunch was served to the wedding party.
12:30 PM: The floral team from Petals, Inc. arrived to deliver stunning arrangements for the ceremony and reception spaces.
1:00 PM: The Ripcord Band, began setting up sound systems for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
A sweet and emotional first look in the Singleton Room at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, setting the tone for a beautiful day..
Afternoon: First Look and Group Photos
1:30 PM: I, Mark Davidson Photography, arrived with my team to capture getting-ready moments, detail shots, and candid moments leading up to the ceremony.
2:30 PM: The couple had a private first look in the Singleton Room, sharing heartfelt vows before starting their photo session. We took the group portraits, like the wedding party and family photos, in the holiday-decorated lobby of Fairmont. Then, the couple and I took a few pictures around the hotel.
The bride and groom share a heartfelt moment, laughing and smiling as they walk up the aisle in the Grand Ballroom at the Fairmont Copley Plaza.
Late Afternoon Ceremony
4:00 PM: Guests began arriving at the Grand Ballroom. Ushers handed out programs designed by Emily Gallardo Calligraphy, and background music set the mood.
4:35 PM: The ceremony began. The ballroom, adorned with floral installations by Petals, Inc., created a romantic ambiance. The band provided ceremony music and audio equipment, and the Fairmont staff ensured every detail, from the microphone to the reserved seating, was executed perfectly.
Evening: Cocktail Hour
5:00 PM: Cocktail hour took place in the Ballroom Foyer, with stunning lighting by Frost Productions and signature cocktails on the menu. Guests mingled while enjoying live music provided by the Ripcord Band.
5:50 PM: The couple had a private reception space reveal with their wedding planner from the Fairmont Copley. They previewed the transformed Grand Ballroom with Chiavari chairs and elegant centerpieces repurposed from ceremony florals.
Reception
6:20 PM: Guests entered the reception space, guided by escort cards designed by Emily Gallardo Calligraphy. The couple made their grand entrance and shared their first dance to “How Sweet It Is” by Marvin Gaye.
The bride and groom share an unforgettable first dance to 'How Sweet It Is' by Marvin Gaye, with the groom spinning the bride in the Grand Ballroom at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, accompanied by the incredible Ripcord Band.
Dinner and Dancing
6:35 PM: Dinner, catered by the Fairmont Copley Plaza, was served. Guests enjoyed a curated menu featuring fresh, local ingredients. During the first course, the couple visited tables to greet guests.
7:45 PM: Toasts began, including heartfelt speeches from the maid of honor, the groom’s brothers, and a thank-you message from the couple. Guests then indulged in dessert and cake cutting.
8:15 PM: The dance floor opened with the song "September,".
9:00 PM: The bouquet toss took place from the Grand Ballroom balcony during the band's break.
A candid moment as the bride’s mother and brother share a heartfelt and laughter-filled welcome toast during dinner in the Grand Ballroom at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, beautifully lit by Frost Productions."
Late Night: Closing and After-Party
10:20 PM: The evening concluded with a final dance, after which the bar closed, leaving water stations available for guests.
10:30 PM: Guests departed, taking centerpieces as keepsakes. The wedding team from Without A Hitch handled the cleanup and safely transported gifts and personal items to the family’s hotel room.
11:00 PM: The after-party kicked off at Rochambeau, where guests continued the celebration late into the night.
A late-night view from the balcony of the Grand Ballroom at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, with a packed dance floor, the Ripcord Band keeping the energy high, and stunning lighting by Frost Productions.
Rehearsal Dinner Options Near The Fairmont Copley Plaza
The following restaurants are great options for rehearsal dinners near the Fairmont Copley Plaza:
Oak Room and the Oak Bar:
This restaurant is located in the Fairmont Copley Plaza and offers award-winning cuisine and elegant décor. Its 30-foot high vaulted ceiling features intricate plasterwork with detailed cameos, and Waterford crystal chandeliers sparkle throughout the restaurant.
Moxy Hotel Bar:
Located in Boston, MA, this reception venue serves modern cocktails and delectable main courses for weddings in the Bay State. The event space offers a stunning view of the Boston skyline, and the contemporary decor and lighting can truly set the mood. A foosball table provides delightful entertainment, while luxurious seating offers guests a space to enjoy one another’s company in conversation. The restaurant offers a variety of food options, from pepperoni naan and mini crab cakes to pepper-crusted sirloin steak and vanilla bean crème brûlée. They also have an extensive drinks menu, boasting a variety of premium liquors, beers, wines, and prosecco.
Abe and Louies:
This restaurant is located at 793 Boylston Street, Boston, MA. It is the ideal setting for intimate private events, group dining, corporate meetings, or rehearsal dinners, with customized menus to suit your event’s needs. Several fine-dining spaces accommodate private and semi-private parties of 10 to 125 guests within the Greater Boston area.
Yvonne’s:
Located at 2 Winter Place, Boston, MA, Yvonne's is the ideal venue to host your event for any occasion. They redefine the Supper Club dining experience through an exquisite seasonal menu and a beautifully designed space. They offer customized options from a small group to a fully private event. The space contrasts a timeworn backdrop and polished décor with antique crystal chandeliers, overstuffed heather gray tufted sofas, tables enveloped with crisp white linen, and hand-clipped Calacatta marble floors. The Supper Club is ideal for seated group dining, business entertaining, and birthday celebrations.
A beautifully designed wedding cake displayed between the foyer and the Grand Ballroom at the Fairmont Copley Plaza.
Rooms at The Fairmont Copley Plaza
The Fairmont Copley Plaza offers several room types. Making it an ideal location for wedding guests and you to spend your wedding night there. The hotel offers a range of accommodations, including traditional guest rooms, elegant suites, and exclusive Fairmont Gold service. In addition to accessible rooms and assistive devices, your guests can enjoy amenities like in-room coffee and tea, streaming capabilities, and stunning city or park views.
Fairmont Room: For a chic and sophisticated stay, the Fairmont Room offers modern design with classic touches. These guest rooms feature a large desk, delightful in-room beverage options, and streaming capabilities. The room size ranges from 250 to 300 square feet and comes with a choice of one king, one queen, or two double beds. You can enjoy a city view non-park or interior facade.
Signature Room: With a spacious design and stunning views of Boston's historic Back Bay neighborhood, the Signature Room is the perfect place to relax and admire the city. These rooms feature a small sitting area, one king or two queen or two double beds, and overlook Copley Square park and its architectural landmarks, Boston Public Library, and Trinity Church. Room size is 390 square feet.
Deluxe Room: For even more space, the Deluxe Room offers a full marble bathroom and elegant furnishings, including crown molding and curated art pieces. These classic rooms feature a soothing color scheme and a modern feel with classic influences. The room size is 350 square feet and comes with a choice of one king or two double beds, with a view of the city non-park or interior facade.
Overall, the Fairmont Copley Plaza offers a luxurious and comfortable stay for you and your wedding guests with a range of accommodations and stunning city views.
Activities for Fairmont Copley Plaza Wedding Guests
Boston, Massachusetts, is a city full of history and exciting attractions for wedding guests. While staying at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, there are many nearby activities that guests can participate in during their free time. Here are a few of my top recommendations:
Boston Duck Tour - Explore Boston by land and water on a Boston Duck Tour. These amphibious vehicles take you through the streets of Boston before plunging into the Charles River for a scenic water tour. Learn about the city's history and see famous landmarks like the Massachusetts State House, Boston Common, and Fenway Park.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston - Art lovers won't want to take advantage of a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. This world-class museum features an extensive collection of art worldwide, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt. With over 500,000 objects in the museum's collection, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Shop and eat at Quincy Market - Located in the heart of downtown Boston, Quincy Market is a bustling marketplace filled with food vendors, shops, and street performers. Visitors can sample some of Boston's best seafood, grab a coffee or dessert, and shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. With so much to see and do, Quincy Market is a must-visit destination for any guest staying in Boston.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What is the cost to have a Fairmont Copley Plaza Wedding?
The price varies depending on the package. The ceremony rental fee is about$3,500, the meals range from $200-$350 a person, and there is a service charge of 17%.
2. Where can I take my getting ready photos for my wedding at the Fairmont Copley Plaza?
You are able to stay at the Fairmont Copley Plaza and use one of the gorgeous rooms as a place to get ready for your wedding.
3. Can I have my rehearsal at the Fairmont Copley Plaza?
Yes, there are various spaces available at the Fairmont Copley Plaza..
4. Does a Fairmont Copley Plaza wedding have a curfew?
There is no know curfew for a Fairmont Copley Plaza wedding, but can most likely be answered by your wedding planner.
5. Is onsite parking available for weddings at the Fairmont Copley Plaza?
Yes, there is parking through the St. James Avenue entrance. Overnight valet parking is available for $65 a night.
6. Do I need to hire a wedding planner?
A wedding planner at the Fairmont Copley Plaza will help you plan your weddding.
7. How many people can I have at a Fairmont Copley Plaza wedding?
The amount of people you can have at your wedding depends on the room:
Grand Ballroom: 580 people seated
St. James Room: 120 people seated
Oval Room: 320 people seated
Venetian Room: 220 people seated
Ballroom Foyer: 220 people seated
8. Can I have my wedding ceremony and reception at the Fairmont Copley Plaza?
Yes, you can have your wedding ceremony and reception at the Fairmont Copley Plaza.
9. Does the Fairmont Copley Plaza provide rentals for weddings?
Yes, there are some rentals that are provided.
10. Who is the caterer for the Fairmont Copley Plaza Weddings?
Fairmont Copley Plaza has their own in-house catering for weddings and events.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is a beautiful and historic venue in the heart of Boston, MA, offering an elegant wedding setting. With several options for ceremony and reception locations, as well as on-site catering and accommodation, the Fairmont Copley Plaza provides a comprehensive experience for the wedding party and guests. The nearby churches and photo locations make it easy for couples to plan their entire day in one convenient location. Additionally, the restaurants and activities in Boston offer ample opportunities for wedding guests to explore the city before or after the big event. With its timeless charm and luxurious amenities, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is the perfect location to create unforgettable memories on one of the most important days of your life.
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