How to Plan a Fantasy-Inspired Wedding in NJ (Without It Looking Like a Bad Renaissance Fair)
Calling all dreamers, adventurers, and couples who know deep down that “till death do us part” hits harder when it’s whispered in a mossy forest clearing or a candlelit castle hall. If you want a wedding that feels like it stepped out of a Tolkien book, a Studio Ghibli film, or a medieval daydream, welcome to your guide.
Fantasy-inspired weddings in New Jersey can be magical as hell… if you plan them right. Here’s how to make yours feel enchanting, not cringey.
1. Pick a Venue With Natural or Historic Charm
First step? The right setting. You need a backdrop that brings the fantasy vibes without you having to build an entire set from scratch.
Some NJ fantasy-worthy venue ideas:
Waterloo Village (Stanhope): Historic village, old stone buildings, winding paths through trees… basically a quest waiting to happen.
Skylands Manor (Ringwood): Actual castle. Enough said.
The Farm at Glenwood Mountain (Vernon): Rustic, misty, surrounded by forest. Throw in some lanterns and boom… storybook.
The Park Savoy Estate (Florham Park): For a more elegant fairy tale vibe… think ballgown, not chainmail.
Look for gardens, woods, old barns, estates, or anything that feels timeless. Bonus points if there’s fog or ivy involved.
2. Set the Mood With Lighting
This is huge. You want the space to feel like a different world. Forget basic uplighting… go for:
Hanging lanterns and candelabras
Strings of fairy lights wrapped in greenery
Lots of candles (real or flameless… your call)
Colored lighting with warm amber or moody blue tones
Ask your DJ or lighting team to help create a glowing, magical atmosphere after dark. If it feels like you’re walking into Rivendell or the ballroom from Beauty and the Beast, you nailed it.
3. Go Wild With Fashion (Literally or Figuratively)
This is your chance to wear something epic. Forget traditional tuxes and gowns if they don’t speak to your inner elven queen or fantasy knight.
Ideas:
Flowing, ethereal gowns with capes or bell sleeves
Earth tones, jewel tones, velvet, lace, leather details
Crown or circlet instead of a veil (yes, do it)
Embroidered tunics or brocade vests for grooms
Capes. Don’t fight it. Capes are badass.
Tell your guests the dress code is “fantasy chic” or “storybook formal.” If they ask if that means fairy wings or cloaks, the answer is yes.
4. Create Your Own Lore
This is where it gets fun.
Write your own wedding vows as if you’re characters in your own legend
Name your tables after kingdoms, forests, or magical artifacts
Design a custom crest or sigil that represents your relationship
Hire a calligrapher to make scroll-style invites or menus
You can even give your ceremony a narrative… like “This is the joining of two souls from rival houses,” or whatever nerdy twist makes your heart flutter.
5. Get Nerdy With Entertainment & Details
Subtle nods go a long way:
A harpist or string quartet playing instrumental versions of The Legend of Zelda or Game of Thrones
A cake that looks like a castle, enchanted forest, or dragon egg
Signature drinks like “Elven Elixir” or “Potion of Eternal Love”
A ceremony officiated by a friend dressed as a wizard (only slightly joking)
Want to go full-immersion? Add a fire dancer, medieval musicians, or storytelling-style ceremony. If your guests leave feeling like they just stepped out of a fantasy novel, mission accomplished.
6. Don’t Forget the Photos
Your fantasy wedding deserves photography that actually captures the mood. Not stiff posing or Pinterest fluff. You want images that feel cinematic, raw, and magical like they belong in a storybook.
Find a photographer (hi, it’s me) who gets that you're not here for basic. You want moss-covered stone walls, slow dances under string lights, and the wind catching your cape like a damn movie moment. That’s the stuff.
Bonus Tip: NJ Has Some Killer Fantasy-Like Locations for Engagements, Too
While you’re dreaming big, think about doing a fantasy-themed engagement shoot in places like:
Ramapo Valley County Reservation (perfect for moody forest shots… plus hidden castle ruins nearby)
Millbrook Village (for medieval village vibes)
Skylands Botanical Gardens (ethereal fairyland energy)
It’ll set the tone for your whole wedding story.
So… is a fantasy wedding in NJ realistic?
Hell yes. With the right mindset, the right team, and a little creative flair, you can pull off a wedding that feels like it was crafted in another realm—but still grounded enough to make your grandma happy. If you’re planning one and want a photographer who’s absolutely down for elven gowns, moody candlelit portraits, and the occasional dragon reference, reach out. I’m here for it.