A venue filled with character, history, and grace, the Pleasantdale Chateau and Conference Center is well-known for hosting world-class wedding events. As a recipient of many accolades such as, the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award for three years in a row, and being featured in the Knot Hall of Fame, there is no question as to why many celebrities and high-profile clientele visit the property.
Your fairytale wedding starts as soon as you enter the ivy-covered gates and drive through the scenic road leading to the historic estate.
The estate is located in West Orange, an affluent suburban enclave in Northern New Jersey, just outside of New York City. Dating back to 1835, the Pleasantdale Chateau was inspired by French design. It was owned originally by a renowned American industrialist to escape the busyness of city life. After the Knowles family gained possession of the grounds in 1994, they continue to make sure the extraordinary space stays intact.
The chateau’s Norman style of architecture can commonly be found throughout the countryside in Northern France. Once a filming site for numerous TV Shows and movies such as, “The Sopranos” and “Law & Order: SVU,” the Pleasantdale Chateau has authentic architecture and is surrounded by 40 acres of diverse landscapes featuring gardens, woodlands, and meadows.
As you enter the private estate, you’ll notice the one-of-a-kind design right away. 17th-century tile from Spain fills the floors, intricately decorated limestone columns line the halls, and an opulent crystal chandelier glimmers through the entrance. The rest of the mansion is filled with a historic spirit as well.
The Grand Ballroom is described as unique and astonishing. Being self-supported by numerous arches and columns, the octagonal-designed room will astonish your guests. The high ceilings are topped with a glass dome in the center that allows natural light to pour in.
In the grand estate, there are countless rooms for you to explore. A visit to the indoor pool is a must, the room contains lion-head fountains, glass ceilings, and richly colored columns. There is also a Mediterranean-style fountain room and a botanical garden filled with lush greens.
The picturesque spots at the Pleasantdale Chateau are endless, to say the least. Even if you happen to catch a rainy day, you can’t fall short of photo opportunities inside the expansive estate. Being local New Jersey photographers, we have seen our fair share of wedding venues and it is rare to find a property with so many picture spots indoors.
Along with an abundance of beauty inside, the property has manicured gardens that create the ideal setting for romantic shots full of greenery with a pop of color from the exotic flowers. On the lawn, your bridal party photos can feature the estate’s antique architecture in the background, or you can opt for portraits filled with flourishing oak trees. Another special wedding portrait spot is the bridges leading across the pond.
When it’s raining, there are still opportunities to get that natural background. The greenhouse is full of diverse plants with brick tile flooring. The natural lighting illuminates the whole room, making your wedding day portraits even more flattering.
A room we made sure to take advantage of was the indoor pool. The bright greens and blues, the mosaic pillars, and the natural lights coming from the glass ceiling, make it a romantic and unique asset to the venue. In this space, we got to capture one of our client’s first looks before the wedding.
The Pleasantdale Chateau offers a private, tranquil, and enchanting spot for a fairytale wedding day. The space allows for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. An outdoor wedding ceremony can feel magical, surrounded by centuries-old trees in an undisturbed meadow.
Each wedding is different, and the staff at the venue certainly knows this. The Pleasantdale Chateau staff works with you to customize your special day down to the finest details to accommodate any and all needs. All kinds of weddings including same-sex, Asian, Indian, and Jewish can be hosted at the property.
Between the main house and the Petite Chateau, there are 30 lavish guest rooms for overnight stays. Guests can expect to be treated like royalty and be served as if they were in a high-end hotel. Each room is distinctive with authentic interior designs, antique furniture, and fine linens. In-room massages are also available upon request. Especially for wedding after-parties, the Pleasantdale Chateau offers foot massages which are definitely needed after a night full of dancing.
The natural beauty of the estate is unmissable. The rich landscape makes you feel like you entered an enchanted forest right out of a fairytale. Pathways wind around the dense woodlands that take guests past calm ponds, over old-fashioned bridges, and below the property’s original gazebos.
The Pleasantdale Chateau can accommodate up to 350 guests, offering event planning services. The in-house culinary team will individualize your menu and use organic produce grown from the venue’s farms. The onsite maitre’d will be there for you to ensure all your needs are taken care of and that the day runs smoothly.
When it comes to transportation, valet and shuttle service are available. A heliport is also on-site at the venue allowing easy access for helicopter travel, especially for accommodating those coming from Manhattan or other parts of New Jersey.
For getting ready, the complimentary bridal suite is always available. The bride and her bridesmaids can get their hair and makeup done at the in-house salon. The groom and groomsmen can take advantage of the in-house barbershop and then head to the game room to pass the extra time.
Weddings at the Pleasantdale Chateau must comply with the following rules.
Location: 757 Eagle Rock Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052.
