Floral Arches
Venue Spotlight
Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa – History, Fun and Farms
One of the biggest pleasures that I have, other than working with awesome couples, is visiting new places.
I love places that have been layered over time. Each element living on its own. Buttermilk Falls in Milton, NY is a place like that.
I was fortunate enough to be given a tour by a lovely gentleman who I will call M. M is the perfect ambassador and was absolutely delightful. He really takes a lot of pride in Buttermilk Falls and rightly so, it’s amazing. Everyone I encountered was pleasant and extremely hospitable. M was kind enough to introduce me to his favorite bird. I didn’t tell him that I am normally afraid of geese, having been chased by them as a child, but this particular gander was just as charming as my host.
The main house was purchased as a country home and as it stands, is a beautiful, historic inn. Built in 1764, and meticulously decorated, the Inn itself feels like the country home of a well traveled uncle. It’s rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated and every one is unique. I don’t think I could pick a favorite, but the bridal suite is outstanding.
Ceremonies can be held on a bluestone patio overlooking the Hudson, in a secluded grotto by a lake surrounded by willow trees, or indoors in a converted barn. Small parties up to 90 people can be held in the barn, and larger parties up to 200 can be held under a custom built tent overlooking the Hudson.
The magic of Buttermilk Falls though, is that it is a true compound. The original barn has been converted to Henry’s Restaurant, which offers an outstanding menu of food grown right on the property. Other amenities include a world class spa, indoor pool, steam room and 75 beautiful acres of gardens in which to roam.
It also hosts 3 Carriage House Suites, and 4 guest cottages accommodating a maximum of 54 guests on the property. Everyone can enjoy breakfast in the spacious sunroom and patio at the main house, and an afternoon tea. Each building has been added over the years, and it’s charm lies in the architecture that represents the periods in which they are built. They have charming names like Riverknoll Downs and Pony’s Pad. Unlike stoic historic places that seem frozen in one period of time, Buttermilk Inn and Spa is a dynamic, living place that feels like anything is possible.
Throughout the property there are magical surprises, each one having a distinct personality and charm. I love the Riverknoll house, a mid century contemporary guest house that would make an excellent place for the parents, or bridal party to stay. It has a private meeting room that can accommodate up to 20 people so it also makes a great home base for a corporate retreat. Rumor has it, there use to be a hot tub on the roof, now, it is a little more austere.
On the path to Millstone Farm, is the nicest chicken house I have seen since Le Petit Trianon at Versaille, Marie Antoinne’s bucolic getaway near the palace. Built in a repurposed guest cottage, it looks like something out of a fairy tale.
Roaming the property are flocks of friendly geese; kind goats, prides of peacocks, sheep, donkeys, llamas and alpacas reside in the livestock barn. It’s a great place to get in touch with nature and slow down. In addition to heirloom vegetables, and fresh eggs, Millstone Farm also has 8 hives which provide honey and help to pollinate the fruits and vegetables.
Just about 80 miles north of New York, Buttermilk is accessible by train or a short drive. There are plenty of things to do in the area; nearby are, local wineries, hiking, and historic homes so if you wanted to make a weekend out of it, your guests will have plenty to do. It also offers unique spaces for rehearsal dinners, weddings, after parties and morning brunch parties so no need to look elsewhere.
Buttermilk Falls also operates as an Inn so it makes a great place for a little mini vacation and use as a home base if you wanted to check out other venues in the Hudson Valley. Once you see it though, I wouldn’t be surprised if you choose to have your wedding there. It’s well worth a visit.
220 North Road
Milton, NY 12547
845-795-1310
Photography by Popography https://popography.org/ where noted
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