Long Island couples looking for a distinctive wedding venue will find The Preston Barn at Old Drovers Inn in Dover Plains the perfect choice. Unlike most Long Island wedding venues that only provide a few hours in a ballroom, The Preston Barn gives you the opportunity for a full wedding weekend. Located just 80 miles north of New York City, this rustic wedding venue offers exclusive use of the barn and grounds, as well as on-site lodging for your closest family and friends, making it the perfect destination wedding venue near NYC.
Memorable Weekend Wedding Experience for Long Island Couples
At The Preston Barn, you get more than just a wedding day. Book your wedding and enjoy a full weekend celebration with exclusive access to the venue from 3 PM on Friday through 11 AM on Sunday. Host a rehearsal dinner on Friday, your ceremony and reception on Saturday, and a farewell brunch on Sunday, all without moving between different venues. This format gives you and your guests a relaxed wedding experience and allows you to celebrate in an intimate, stress-free environment.
With on-site coordination, every detail of your wedding is taken care of. From helping you design your floor plan to managing the event timeline, your coordinator ensures that the weekend runs smoothly so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
Barn and Ground Spaces
The Preston Barn, constructed from reclaimed Hudson Valley barns, is a rustic wedding venue that combines historic charm with modern amenities. The space can comfortably accommodate up to 220 guests, providing ample room for a dance floor and live entertainment. The venue features hand-hewn beams, vaulted ceilings, and barnwood floors, adding to the rustic elegance that makes it so popular with couples seeking a wedding venue with character.
Your wedding ceremony takes place on-site, with an arbor, chairs, and a wireless PA system for clear vows. Cocktail hour is typically hosted on the 40x50-foot stone patio, and in case of inclement weather, the tented area provides a comfortable backup. With sliding barn doors and climate control, your guests will be comfortable year-round, enjoying smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
On-site Lodging for Guests
One of the standout features of The Preston Barn is its on-site lodging. Located at Old Drovers Inn, the venue offers six guest rooms, each with a private bath, plus a Bridal Suite for two nights, ensuring the couple has a relaxing stay. The Carriage House, just across the street, has seven bedrooms, and Preston House, only 0.3 miles away, offers four en suite bedrooms for your wedding party.
For seasonal weddings, additional lodging options include the Farm House and the Mountain Cabin, both within a short distance and offering ample space for larger groups. On-site accommodations at Old Drovers Inn and the Carriage House include a complimentary breakfast, making your wedding weekend even more enjoyable.
Customized Catering by Old Drovers Inn
All food and beverage services are provided by Old Drovers Inn, which features an on-site commercial kitchen to ensure fresh, high-quality meals. The chef works closely with you to create a customized menu based on your preferences and dietary needs. Dinner service options include plated, family-style, or buffet, ensuring the meal fits your wedding style.
Your wedding package includes a cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres, a champagne toast, two signature drinks, and a five-hour open bar. Dinner consists of a salad, three entrée options, a chef-selected starch to complement your entrees, seasonal vegetables, and freshly baked cookies for dessert. The on-site kitchen can also accommodate special dietary requests, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options, ensuring every guest is catered to.
Perfect Event Coordination and Amenities
With your wedding at The Preston Barn, you get both beautiful spaces and the help to ensure everything goes as planned. The on-site coordinator will assist with every aspect of your event, from managing the timeline to working with vendors. The venue is equipped with a full audio system for music and toasts, TV screens for presentations, and Wi-Fi to keep everyone connected.
The venue offers a variety of amenities, including tables, chairs with cushions, linens, and all necessary tableware and glassware for up to 220 guests. Whether you’re planning a rustic wedding or a more traditional celebration, The Preston Barn provides everything needed for a memorable day.
Transportation and Parking
Getting to The Preston Barn from Long Island is convenient, with the venue approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away by car, depending on your location. Many couples arrange chartered buses for their guests, ensuring a smooth journey upstate. On-site parking is available for attendants, and a golf cart shuttle is offered for guests with mobility concerns (offered for an additional cost).
Conclusion
If you’re a Long Island couple seeking a wedding venue that feels like a destination but is still close to home, The Preston Barn is the perfect choice for a destination wedding. Schedule a tour to see the beautiful barn, stone patio, and the on-site lodging options. Our team is here to help you create the wedding weekend of your dreams.
Call us at 845-442-3053 or email helene.rosenkranz@olddroversinn.com to learn more and schedule your tour.
FAQs
How many guests can The Preston Barn accommodate?
The Preston Barn can comfortably accommodate up to 220 guests, with space for a dance floor and live entertainment. We provide all necessary tables, chairs, linens, and tableware for your event.
What lodging options are available for our wedding weekend?
On-site lodging includes Old Drovers Inn with six guest rooms and the Bridal Suite, The Carriage House with seven bedrooms, and Preston House, which sleeps eight in four en suite bedrooms. Seasonal options include the Farm House and Mountain Cabin.
Can we bring our own vendors?
Yes, outside vendors are welcome as long as they carry the required insurance. Our on-site coordinator will assist with vendor coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What happens if it rains during our outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour?
In case of rain, your ceremony and cocktail hour can be moved to the covered tent or inside the barn. Your on-site coordinator will help adjust the layout and timeline to accommodate any weather changes.