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  • Writer's pictureSTP Weddings

A visit to Shadowbrook in Shrewsbury, NJ


In August we will be doing our first wedding at Shadowbrook- a venue we have heard so much about but hadn't gotten the opportunity to visit. So, we decided it was time to see what it was all about! Our visit to Shadowbrook located in Shrewsbury, NJ was everything we hoped it would be. The driveway leading up to the estate is lined with greenery and maple trees and your first glimpse of the mansion may make you say “wow.”

A little history about how Shadowbrook came to be dates back to the 1900s when Dr. Fahnestock, a surgeon from New York City, purchased the 115 acre farm in Shrewsbury from the George W. Stillwell estate and named the property Shadow Brook Farm. He decided to design a Georgian style mansion and the construction was completed in the summer of 1910. Dr. Fahnestock turned a working crop farm into a gentleman’s country estate.

In the years following the estate was sold to different owners that transitioned it into a hotel and nightclub and then a restaurant. During these years, it has been said that the guest list at Shadowbrook has included such notables as Frank Sinatra, Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones, rock star Bruce Springsteen and Robert Kennedy. All of its rich history has transformed it into one of New Jersey’s most prestigious and sought after wedding and event venues.

There are many things that couples look for when searching for a wedding venue so here are a few we think are very unique and special to Shadowbrook that may make you want to visit too!

Photo via Shadowbrook

  • The estate is magnificent at first site with its unique and historical architecture

  • As you enter through the grand entrance you are greeted by white glove champagne service and escorted out to the gorgeous garden and courtyard

  • The ceremony is held in the courtyard in front of a lavish fountain with guests seated in white padded chairs surrounded by greenery and beautiful flowers

  • Cocktail hour offers cold and hot displays that encompass the outdoor garden where guests can enjoy the scenery and mingle easily

  • Once the reception begins guests are escorted into the elaborate ballroom that shows its history and can seat up to 250 guests

  • The horseshoe bar is the focal point of the Regency Room and the large staircase in the entrance is even more beautiful with a golden 32-light chandelier rescued from the main ballroom of New York’s Biltmore Hotel.

  • Fireplaces are located in almost every room of the residence

  • In the event of inclement weather there is no better place for a back up plan. In case you and your guests can not enjoy the courtyard the ceremony will take place in the ballroom and the cocktail hour will occur in the Oak Room which is a gorgeous option with ample room and beautiful decor.

  • The bridal suite is a beautiful place for the bride and her bridesmaids to get ready and relax

  • The estate and its landscape is lovely in every season. The weddings taking place in spring and summer get to enjoy the fresh flowers and bright greenery. Fall weddings experience the fall foliage that will line the driveway and the courtyard in auburn and orange. For couples that enjoy winter the estate is decorated in gorgeous and chic decor that would put anyone in the holiday spirit. With a fireplace located in almost every room guests will stay warm and the ballroom will look beautiful. The outdoors will look even better on a snow day!

Shadowbrook is one of New Jersey’s best venues and a must see for all of those newly engaged couples!

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