We had a whole list of venues to tour, but our first tour was at Riverdale, and we immediately knew we wouldn’t need to go anywhere else. Riverdale checked all of our boxes—afforda...ble, lush, and accommodating. Both the indoor and outdoor venues were gorgeous, so we knew that no matter the weather, we would be able to enjoy beautiful spaces! Our guests were able to spread out and take advantage of many photo spots, including the pavilions, river, patio, and breezeway.
In-house catering through Thyme & Seasons was perfect. We knew we’d need crowd-pleasers for picky eaters, so the station-style dining with pizza, pasta, and grilled meat options was perfect. And the food was GOOD—we particularly enjoyed the chipotle pork and the penne with vodka sauce.
The staff working the event were also very kind, accommodating, and helpful. The servers ensured that allergens were clearly labeled for guests and even brought food and drinks to the sweetheart table for us. The bartenders also did a wonderful job—although we only gave a general concept for the signature drink, the bartenders ensured that it was perfectly mixed, just strong enough, presentable, and (most importantly) delicious.
Our coordinator, Monica, was an absolute gem. She was able to set up all of our wedding favors and decorations, welcome family and wedding party members, and direct folks for the ceremony and everything after. She even set up a small room away from the guests where we could decompress post-ceremony with our party members and parents, complete with food from the cocktail hour and a selection of drinks. Monica also gave us a small gift—an ornament of Riverdale Manor—that will be a treasured addition to our Christmas tree!
Riverdale does have a few quirks—for example, we were only able to use the grounds starting 3 hours before the ceremony, and we had to supply our own alcohol. For some couples, these may be dealbreakers or downsides. For us, it meant we could get ready at our own pace and select the drinks that our guests would most enjoy.
The other great benefit of Riverdale was its affordability. While the “wedding tax” impacts any venue, Riverdale’s costs were very reasonable, and the venue’s flexibility meant we could customize our special day aesthetically and economically.
Rain or shine, summer or winter, I would recommend Riverdale Manor in a heartbeat. We could not have had a more perfect day, and we know that’s because Riverdale Manor made it possible!