April 1, 2023
As a wedding photographer, I have captured countless beautiful moments at various venues, but there is something truly special about Station 97. This historic wedding venue has industrial charm that sets it apart from the rest. Built in 1897, Station 97 was once the Witch Hazel Factory that operated for a century before being converted into a one-of-a-kind industrial wedding venue it is today.
The original brick building has been lovingly restored and repurposed, providing a stunning backdrop for your wedding. And the reception area, which was once the old boiler room, still with it’s original coal bucket trolley, now a spacious and elegant wedding venue space perfect for your reception or ceremony holding up to 100 guests.
Station 97 offers tables, chairs, and linens included in the rental, it’s easy to customize the space to your vision. And with being a full DIY space, you can bring in any vendors you choose (with proper insurance, of course) to make your day truly your own.
As you make your way through the Station 97 venue, you will be particularly impressed with the wedding suite. The mini-fridge is available to keep your beverages of choice chill and well-lit mirrors make it the perfect spot for preparing for the big day.
When it comes to catering prep, the kitchenette at Station 97 is also a standout feature. Whether you’re using it for just catering prep, lounge, or photo booth area, the space is fully equipped and can be set up in a variety of ways to suit your needs.
Located just past the restrooms and vanity area is the elevator hallway. This unique spot at Station 97 is perfect for portraits and has a industrial feel. It’s also interesting to note that it houses the deepest well in Connecticut, making for a fun fact to share with your guests.
At Station 97, you’ll have the full building at your disposal for photos. There are many indoor areas that are absolutely fantastic for industrial and creative wedding photos.
But it’s not just the indoor spaces that make Station 97 such a special venue. Outdoors, you’ll find a charming patio and a picturesque field across the street that’s perfect for an outdoor ceremony. And with plenty of old factory history scattered about the grounds from its factory heydays providing a fascinating glimpse into the past, there are endless opportunities for unique and creative wedding photos.
But Station 97 is more than just a great industrial wedding venue – it’s also situated in a charming area with plenty nearby features. The Deep River Roasters is just a quick elevator ride away, offering the perfect pick-me-up for your wedding day. And the Surff Ridge Brewery, located in the same lot as the venue, is a great spot for a rehearsal dinner.
Need a local place for you or your wedding party to stay? Look no further than the Silent Rose Farmhouse, a stunning home located right next door. And if you’re looking to incorporate a little train action into your wedding day, the Essex Steam Train is just a stone’s throw away.
Your venue rental at Station 97 is for 6 hours with a hard stop at 11 pm. That said, you can access the venue up to 6 hours prior for setting up. This goes for both you as well as your vendors. The venue is also food truck friendly. If you are worried about losing power during your wedding celebration, dont! Station 97 has a generator backup.
All the bathrooms are also handicap accessible. When it’s time to clean up, Station 97 makes it easy. While events must be broken down on the same day, Shannon (the owner) is always willing to work with couples to ensure that their needs are accommodated.
In short, Station 97 is a truly amazing industrial wedding venue that offers the perfect blend of history, charm, and modern amenities. As a photographer, I can’t recommend it enough – with endless photo opportunities and the attention to detail, Station 97 makes for a truly unforgettable wedding day.
While you are here, have you thought about the most important part of your wedding day? Who will document all the moments that mean the most to you?
Hello there…I’m Thaddeus. Your tattooed Wookiee linguist, stalker of light, and coffee connoisseur with a set of chops that make Wolverine cry. I believe that your wedding photography should be as epic as a lightsaber battle between Jedi and Sith and as unforgettable as the moment you first locked eyes.
Your wedding day is not just about the photos, it’s about your journey together and the moments that led you here. I’m passionate about getting to know you, understanding your vision, and bringing it to life in a way that feels authentic and true to who you are with an approach that is both candid and intentional ensuring moments that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
If this all sounds like your jam, let’s have a quick chat and find out if I am the right photographer for you.
Connecticut-based wedding photographer TJ Ladzinski is your adventure catalyst. With infectious enthusiasm and an easygoing spirit, he transforms every moment into cherished memories.
A storyteller at heart, TJ's work has been awarded and featured in several wedding publications. His dedication to capturing authentic moments and creating a joyful atmosphere for his couples is evident in the photographs and experience he produces.
Forget long impersonal forms! Shoot me a message about your favorite games, hangouts, or adventures. Next, we'll jump on a call or video to learn all about you and your wedding to see if we vibe. As a heads up, I only book 20 weddings a year. So let’s connect soon!
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