I first met Adrian and Paige in South Carolina when they booked what Paige thought was a couples session at the lake where The Notebook was filmed. She didn’t know Adrian was about to propose. From that moment, we got along easily, and working with them felt natural.

When they reached out again to have me photograph their wedding in Massachusetts, I was excited to document it. Paige wanted to get married in the church she grew up in, and after the ceremony, they held their reception at Inn on Boltwood. The venue’s historic charm and well-designed event spaces made it a great choice for both their celebration and photography.

This post will cover what to expect when planning a wedding at Inn on Boltwood, including ceremony and reception spaces, catering options, and things to do inAmherst for guests. If you’re considering this venue, this guide will help you understand what it offers.

About Inn on Boltwood

Inn on Boltwood is a historic hotel and event venue located in Amherst, Massachusetts. Established in 1926, the inn offers a blend of classic New England architecture and modern amenities. It is situated in the heart of downtown Amherst, making it a convenient option for weddings with guests traveling from different areas.

The venue features both indoor and outdoor event spaces, on-site catering, and overnight accommodations. With a focus on high-quality service and attention to detail, Inn on Boltwood is a well-regarded choice for weddings of various sizes. Its location near Amherst College and local attractions makes it a practical option for couples looking for a wedding venue in Western Massachusetts.

Wedding Ceremony & Reception Spaces

Inn on Boltwood offers multiple event spaces for ceremonies and receptions, accommodating both small and mid-sized weddings. Each space has a unique layout and capacity:

• The Tent – A climate-controlled tent with clear side panels, providing an outdoor feel with weather protection. It can accommodate up to 180 guests for a seated reception.
• The Ballroom – An indoor space with a classic design, featuring large windows and a neutral color palette. It has a capacity of 130 guests for a seated dinner.
• The Rooftop Terrace – A semi-outdoor space with scenic views, often used for cocktail hours or small ceremonies. Best suited for intimate gatherings.
• The Garden Area – An outdoor option surrounded by greenery, primarily used for ceremonies. It works well for small to mid-sized groups.

Each space can be customized with décor, and the venue provides tables, chairs, and other essential setup items. Indoor and outdoor options allow for flexibility in planning, regardless of weather conditions.

Catering & Dining Options

Inn on Boltwood provides farm-to-table catering, sourcing seasonal ingredients from local farms. The in-house culinary team offers customizable menus, including traditional New England dishes, vegetarian and vegan options, and accommodations for dietary needs. Bar services include beer, wine, and craft cocktails with flexible package options. Couples can bring in a wedding cake from a preferred bakery or choose from the venue’s dessert selections. All catering services, including setup and cleanup, are handled by the venue. Outside catering is not allowed, but the team works with couples to create a tailored dining experience.

Things to do in Amherst

For guests staying at Inn on Boltwood for the wedding weekend, Amherst offers plenty of activities to enjoy before and after the celebration.

• Explore Amherst College & The Emily Dickinson Museum – Walk through the historic campus or visit the home of poet Emily Dickinson.
• Enjoy Local Dining & Breweries – Try farm-to-table restaurants, cozy cafes, or craft beer at Amherst Brewing.
• Outdoor Activities – Hike at Mount Norwottuck or visit The Notch for scenic trails.
• Shop in Downtown Amherst – Browse local boutiques, bookstores, and markets for unique finds.

We absolutely loved getting married at Inn on Boltwood. We wanted a traditional wedding, but at a place that felt homey and welcoming, surrounded by our friends and family. The vibe of the venue was a quiet and serene atmosphere, which also mimicked the “era” we wanted it to. We wanted it to be similar to the Notebook vibe, and we got just that. I loved the style of the old building and how well it photographed and displayed a classic and timeless feeling and moment for us. The soft greens against the white building were comforting and relaxing, and the inside had a classic and historic look to it. It was very much a vibe and matched perfectly to exactly what we wanted it to - Paige, the Bride