The Lyman Estate

The Lyman Estate

The Lyman Estate is a Boston wedding venue located at 185 Lyman Street, Waltham, Massachusetts, 02452. Built-in 1793, the estate boasts gorgeous gardens, lawns, and a grand carriage house that will provide a stunning backdrop for your wedding.

Onsite Wedding Ceremony Location

Wedding ceremonies at the Lyman Estate are hosted on their lawn next to the main house. The lawn provides a beautiful setting for your vows and can accommodate up to 150 guests. The average ceremony lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. The staff at the Lyman Estate will set up the ceremony chairs and provide an arch for you to use. Peak Event Services in Boston is a great option if you are looking for rentals, such as aches, unique chairs, and columns to hold your floral ceremony decor.

Cocktail Hour Location

Following the ceremony, the cocktail hour is typically hosted next to the ceremony site in the back of the estate. The location provides a seamless transition from ceremony to reception and allows your guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You can also choose to have two signature cocktail drinks during the cocktail hour. If the weather isn't ideal, you can have your cocktail hour under a tent or on the wrap-around porches of the main house. One of the best ways to ensure that you and your guests can enjoy the cocktail hour is to take all the formal photos before the ceremony, so you can all relax and enjoy the party.

Reception Location

The reception space at the Lyman Estate can accommodate up to 150 guests, providing a spacious and elegant setting for your celebration. The preferred caterers at the venue are East Meets West and LaBonne Maison, but you're free to choose your own catering. The reception typically lasts for 4-5 hours, but you can add more hours to extend the dancing and party. 

Tent Options

If you would rather have a tented reception for your reception, the Lyman Estate allows you to set up on their front lawn. This is a great option for the warmer months in New England. My favorite type of tent is either a Sperry sailcloth or a clear one because you can see the tent's glow during the evening. You can also rent a tent from Sperry Tents or Peak Event Services to make sure your guests will be protected from the elements if needed.

Photo Locations

The Carriage House, gardens, and grounds of the Lyman Estate provide a variety of beautiful and unique locations for your wedding photos. The Carriage House, with its classic architecture, provides a timeless and elegant backdrop, while the gardens and grounds offer a picturesque setting with a mix of greenery and colorful flowers. The best time for photos is during the golden hour, right before sunset. However, because there are many shaded areas and beautiful backgrounds throughout the estate, you can also take all your family photos before the ceremony to avoid the afternoon light.

Hotels Near The Lyman Estate

If you're looking for a place for the bride and groom and their wedding party to get ready, there are several great options nearby. The Westin Waltham Boston is a luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and a great location, while the Hyatt House Boston/Waltham offers spacious suites with separate living areas. The Four Points by Sheraton Boston Newton and Boston Marriott Newton are also great options, providing comfortable and convenient accommodations for your wedding party.

FAQ 

Q: Can I bring in my own caterer, or do I need to us of the preferred caters at the Lyman Estate?

A: Yes, you can bring in your own caterer. However, the preferred caterers are East Meets West and LaBonne Maison.

Q: How many guests can the Lyman Estate accommodate?

A: The reception space can accommodate up to 150 guests, and the ceremony space can accommodate up to 150 guests.

Q: Are there any restrictions on music or noise levels?

A: There are no specific restrictions on music or noise levels, but we ask that you respect your neighbors of the Estate and keep the volume to a reasonable level.

Q: Is there a time limit for my wedding?

A: The reception at the Lyman Estate typically lasts for 4-5 hours, but you can add more hours to extend the dancing and party if needed. There may be a curfew on music and noise level that you need to respect and discuss with the venue management.

Q: Can I bring in my own vendors, or do I have to use the preferred vendor list?

A: You are welcome to bring in your own vendors, but please note that the Lyman Estate lists preferred vendors, such as caterers, florists, and rentals that they have vetted and worked with.

Q: Are there any additional fees for using the grounds for photos?

A: The rental fee for The Lyman Estate includes access to the grounds for photographs. There are no additional fees for photo shoots.

Q: Is The Lyman Estate wedding venue handicap accessible?

A: The main floor of the Lyman Estate is wheelchair accessible, but please note that the reception space is located on the second floor, which stairs can only access.

Q: Is parking available at The Lyman Estate for my wedding guest?

A: There is ample parking available for guests at the venue. However, please be aware that some parking is located on a lawn and may be affected by wet weather. Have a parking plan for your guests, especially during peak wedding season.

The Cost of a Lyman Estate Wedding

Wedding Rates (May to October)

  • Monday to Friday: $2,800.00

  • Saturdays: $5,800.00

  • Sundays: $3,800.00

Wedding Rates (November to April)

  • Monday to Friday: $1,200.00

  • Saturdays: $2,400.00

  • Sundays: $1,800.00

The rental fee that you are going to pay will be used to support the mission of the Historic New England to maintain and preserve the heritage of New England.

What Is Including With The Site Fee?

You can maximize the use of the entire 37 acres of landscape as well as the historic mansion throughout the entire duration.

  • There is a privately exclusive changing room for the bride and groom.

  • Onsite wedding planner to help you through the planning process. 

  • To keep things on track on the day of the weddings, the Lyman includes a day of wedding planner 

  • 200 folding chairs in white color which are perfect for wedding

  • 20 pieces of 60” round tables that can be occupied by 8 to 10 guests

  • 8 pieces of 48” round tables that can be occupied by 6-8 guests

  • 6 pieces of 36” round tables that can be occupied by 4-5 guests

  • 4 pieces of high cocktail tables

Conclusion

The Lyman Estate in Waltham, MA is a beautiful and historic wedding venue near Boston. With its picturesque lawns, stunning gardens, and elegant carriage house, it provides a variety of gorgeous backdrops for your special day. The staff at the Lyman Estate is dedicated to making your wedding a memorable and stress-free experience, from setting up the ceremony chairs to providing beautiful locations for your photos. With options for indoor and outdoor celebrations, a variety of catering options, and nearby hotels for the wedding party, the Lyman Estate is a fantastic choice for couples looking for a stunning and versatile venue. 


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