The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1369261
The dazzling romance of the venue is particularly evident in how River House uses its outdoor spaces. While the reception and the cocktail hour will always remain inside, a riverfront outdoor ceremony is a possibility and, with the soothing song of the Delaware and free blowing breezes, is certainly sure to be a memorable experience. When talking to Ostrander, she described one such ceremony that took place outside, in view of the water. They lined the ceremony space with velvet couches near a giant, weeping willow that sat in front of where the two canals merged, "it couldn't have been more symbolic of a union." Even while indoors, the freedom of fresh air is still preserved. The full glass walls that line the cocktail hour and reception space, also known as nanowalls, pull back into the sides, allowing a complete immersion into the charming riverside evening breeze. Couples who book with River House are able to capture that ever-desirable open-air atmosphere, all the while knowing they are covered when it comes to the elements. This serves to heighten that sense of liberation that permeates the space-- there is freedom to move about and adapt, but there is also no need to worry about a storm rolling through. This adaptability is at the heart of every River House event. Their experienced team of professional planners and creative culinarians work alongside couples to tailor each aspect of a wedding to the needs of the individuals. Since all food and drink goes through the River House team, there is a complete elimination of the stress regarding caterers and food vendors, and the Food and Beverage Director at Odette's will work alongside couples to ensure that every detail accommodates specifications, tastes, and styles. All the little touches that define River House echo throughout the property. Passion is the root of their work and all of the company's aesthetics carry through to each of their various displays. It is why the chef will sit for twenty- minutes to explain the raw bar and it is why food tastings are almost like receptions within themselves. "They don't want couples to come in and just try a couple of food items, they want you to come in and see the room fully decorated by all of their favorite florists, with entertainment on-site, perhaps a roaming V U E N J .C O M 141