Did you know that some of the most beautiful event venues can be found in New Jersey, just miles outside of New York city?! The state has countless unique event spaces, from rustic barns, to restaurants with views of the city skyline, to beach spas overlooking the open sea, and everything in between.

As a live wedding illustrator I often share creative event entertainment ideas, but before you book the talent you need to choose the space. So this time I’ll be sharing my photos and notes from some of the amazing venues NJ has to offer!

Scroll below to see13 of my favorite venues that I’ve done live guest sketches at. *This list is in no particular order.

1. Molos Restaurant - Weehawken, NJ

Why you’ll love it: This Greek and Mediterranean restaurant is right on the Hudson river and has an unmatched view of New York City. Its private event space is lined with full windows so that guests can watch the boats pass by as they dine. The restaurant itself is located in Weehawken, just beyond the Lincoln tunnel.

2. The Ryland Inn, The Coach House - Whitehouse Station, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Coach House at the Ryland Inn has a beautiful cocktail hour room with raised ceilings, wood paneling, and a rustic feel. The attached main ballroom (not pictured) is a charming refurbished barn.

3. The Ryland Inn, The Grand Ballroom - Whitehouse Station, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Grand Ballroom at the Ryland Inn is located in a separate building on the grounds. The high ceilings are decorated with elaborate chandeliers and there is a separate room for the cocktail space, a piano bar, as well and multiple more intimate sized event rooms.

4. Wave Resort & Spa - Long Branch, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Wave resort is a beautiful spa venue overlooking the sea at the jersey shore. It has an airy loft event space with a roof top balcony area for outdoor ceremonies. The resort is framed by a cute beach town and is a minute walk from a carousel, ice cream shop, and more!

5. TPC Jasna Polana, Princeton NJ

Why you’ll love it: The TCP Jasna Polana is a classic styled country club, set beyond a breathtaking arched gate and brick entry way. The ballroom has a domed ceiling and is lined with full windows that look out on the grounds.

6. The Sheraton - Eatontown, NJ

guest holding their sketch by Deanna Kei

Why you’ll love it: The raised ceilings and modern lighting design of both the ballroom and the cocktail space make the Sheraton at Eatontown a chic choice for events.

7. Art Factory Studios - Patterson, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Art Factory is such a one-of-a-kind space! The ground floor has a vintage art market feel to it. The upstairs level is made up of multiple areas, including an outdoor space. The event design options are limitless!

8. The Westin Governor Morris - Morristown, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Westin Governor Morris has a classic, open floor cocktail space making it a great choice for larger events. Beyond the doors is an ornate ballroom where the tables frame the dance floor.

9. The Imperia - Somerset, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Imperia’s unique ceiling designs and wall and carpet furnishings make this venue a must-see! Their multiple banquet rooms can accommodate both larger or smaller events.

10. The Park Chateau - East Brunswick, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Park Chateau has a gorgeous library space just outside of the main cocktail room which can be opened up to extend the area. The cocktail hour room also opens to an outdoor ceremony space.

11. The Venetian - Garfield, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Venetian’s ballroom has a beautiful curved double staircase leading down from the bridal suite to the dance floor, perfect for making a grand entrance. The chandeliers and color changing light-lined ceiling bring the perfect ambience to any type of event.

12. Nanina’s In The Park - Belleville, NJ

Why you’ll love it: Nanina’s in the Park is known for its beautiful outdoor garden area. Inside, the ballroom has a large dance floor in the center surrounded by an elevated seating area so guests have a perfect view.

13. The Meadow Wood - Randolph, NJ

Why you’ll love it: The Meadow Wood’s grand stair case is the first thing your guests will see as they enter and its the perfect backdrop for photos.

Deanna Kei is a New York based live event illustrator who turns guests into fun fashion illustrations at special events. She’s available to book for both live and virtual events. *Contact deannakei@gmail.com