Essex Conference Center and Retreat

Set within the natural beauty of seaside Cape Ann, Massachusetts, the Essex Conference Center and Retreat is tucked amidst 18 acres of white pines and oak. Less than a mile from the ocean and surrounded by 250 acres of conservation land, its beautifully landscaped gardens are punctuated by sculptures, as well as a waterfall, and lily covered pond. Most of the wedding packages include: exclusivity of the center’s 18 acres, private bridal suite, attentive staff and wedding coordinator, wedding ceremony site, lighted reception tent for up to 160 guests, linen, tables, chairs and dinnerware, overnight accommodations for up to 42 guests, options to host rehearsal dinner, and brunch or other events on-site.

There are several different wedding options at the Essex Conference Center including The Nature’s Paradise Wedding Package. Imagine the joy of gathering your most important friends along with your family on Cape Ann for the weekend. The Center is your “home” from Friday at 4:00 pm until Sunday at 11:00 am. The plans have been made for the Rehearsal Dinner on Friday featuring a New England Lobster bake or BBQ held outside in Nature’s Paradise. The Fire Circle is lit in honor of the wedding and the life the happy couple will share. Everyone gathers after dinner to listen to music or tell stories about the bride and groom. On the morning of the wedding, the hot tub may be enjoyed by special guests. There is plenty of time to take a walk on the trails, meander to Conomo Point to the Bay, or visit one of Cape Ann’s attractions or beaches. This dream wedding can be yours by reserving the Center for your Two Night Weekend Destination Wedding.

Family and friends can call the Center home for the evening under the Garden Wedding Package. This includes exclusivity of the Center from 1:00pm until 11:00am the following day. Exchange vows surrounded by alluring gardens punctuated by sculptures and artistic treasures. Celebrate into the evening under our lighted reception tent, tucked amidst tall pines and oak.
Enjoy S’mores around the camp fire late into the night. Awake the next morning to share memories with guests and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Weddings at the Center are as unique as the couples hosting their special day. We encourage you to define your own style and give you the freedom to create a celebration as your personal expression.

The Sunday Wedding package allows guests to enjoy the Center and beautiful gardens with guests for a full day. When a 4 hour wedding reception just isn’t enough, spend the special day celebrating at the Center. Use of the Center is permitted from 12:00pm until 11:00pm on Sunday. Our wedding packages are designed for your convenience and are a wonderful starting point to plan one’s wedding day, however we welcome and encourage you to create your own unique event.

All of the wedding packages will feature delicious appetizers and a sumptuous meal, all perfectly prepared by the Executive Chef and culinary team. The Centers Chef specializes in beautifully presented, innovative reception menus served either plated or buffet style.

Travelling to or from the Essex Conference Center and Retreat? For business or leisure? Need a ride to or from the Essex Conference Center and Retreat? We provide Essex Conference Center and Retreat Minibus Transportation, Essex Conference Center and Retreat Limobus Transportation, Essex Conference Center and Retreat Car Service, Essex Conference Center and Retreat Limo Service and just about any other service you can think of!