Transforming Nantucket Homes into Dream Event Venues: A Journey with Maggie Stewart Events

Transforming Nantucket Homes into Dream Event Venues: A Journey with Maggie Stewart Events

Welcome to Nantucket, where each event is as unique as its hosts! I'm Maggie Stewart. Back in 2008, fresh out of college, I landed on Nantucket for what was supposed to be a short stint. Fast forward to today, and I’m still here, absolutely in love with this place. My career began in the bustling world of food and beverage, working at many different hotels and restaurants before finding my true calling in event planning.

Since founding and running Maggie Stewart Events, along with leading sales at Island Kitchen Catering, I've had the chance to craft some incredible events across Nantucket – from quaint private homes to the grandest of event venues.

Why do people come to us to manage their event? Because we tailor every event to fit each client's dream. Whether it's a sophisticated fundraiser or an intimate wedding, the goal is always to create a space that feels just right for the occasion.

The Art of Early Planning

Dream events don't just happen; they require meticulous planning. For weddings, we recommend an 18 to 24-month timeline to secure your ideal Nantucket event venues and the perfect vendors to match. But life is full of surprises! If you're on a tighter schedule, don’t fret. Our team thrives on flexibility and creativity, ensuring that even with shorter timelines, your event is nothing short of remarkable.

Discovering Nantucket’s Seasonal Charm

Event at Home in Nantucket - Quality Table Settings

So, when is the best time to have an event in Nantucket? It really depends on what you’re looking for. Each season brings its own charm and advantages, 

  • The Bustling Summer: Late June through early September is the island's high season, bustling with energy and perfect for fundraisers. It's a time when the island is vibrant with visitors, making it ideal for events that thrive on higher attendance.
  • Stroll, Thanksgiving, and Daffodil Weekends: These specific weekends bring a unique buzz to the island, drawing crowds that rekindle the lively spirit outside the peak summer months. They offer special opportunities for events that capitalize on these high-energy, festive times.
  • Wedding Seasons and Venue Choices: The traditional wedding season here spans from June to September. Prestigious venues like the White Elephant and private clubs cater to weddings during these months. In contrast, July and August see private homes becoming the go-to event venues on Nantucket Island for weddings, offering a more intimate setting as these months are typically reserved for leisure guests at many classic venues.
  • Shoulder Seasons for Corporate Retreats: May, early June, late September, and October present golden opportunities for corporate groups. The island is quieter, yet still vibrant with open restaurants and shops, making it an excellent time for corporate retreats and meetings. This period offers the beauty of Nantucket with the bonus of being more cost-effective for organizations.

Beautiful Wedding Event at a home in Nantucket, MA

The Attraction of Events in Private Homes

There's something magical about transforming a private home into an event space in Nantucket. It's more than just a venue; it's a canvas where memories are painted. We've transformed everything from cozy in-town residences to sprawling family compounds, customizing each detail to reflect the essence of the occasion.

  • The Versatility of Nantucket Homes: What makes Nantucket homes so special? Their versatility. They’re ideal for everything from lavish weddings to intimate corporate retreats. Each property offers something unique, and our job is to highlight and enhance these features.
  • Tailored Just for You: These homes offer a completely personalized experience. Every element, from the gourmet menu to the intricate décor, is chosen to reflect your taste and theme, ensuring your event is as individual as you are.
  • Unique Settings for Unforgettable Moments: Each home in Nantucket provides a one-of-a-kind setting. Whether it’s a historic in-town residence or a sprawling seaside estate, your event will be set against a backdrop of unparalleled charm and beauty.
  • Intimacy and Exclusivity: There’s something truly special about hosting an event in a private home. It provides an intimate and exclusive environment.
  • Flexibility for Every Season: One of the best parts? You can enjoy these homes as private retreats during off-seasons and transform them into stunning event venues when the time is right.
  • Weekend-Long Celebrations: Especially for weddings, these homes aren’t just about a single day of celebration. Imagine a full weekend of festivities, with your loved ones gathered in a beautiful Nantucket home, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Diverse Events at Nantucket Home Venues

Nantucket homes offer more than just beautiful settings; they are versatile spaces tailored for an array of events. Imagine intimate weddings with oceanfront vistas, family reunions in cozy, spacious settings, and corporate retreats that break the monotony of office walls and hotels. Picture hosting art exhibitions in unique layouts, sophisticated fundraising galas, or culinary events utilizing gourmet kitchens. Celebrate milestone birthdays, anniversaries, bridal showers, brunches, and holidays in a setting that feels both exclusive and personal. Think wellness retreats, photography workshops, and literary events in serene and inspiring environments. And let's not forget the charm of garden parties under the Nantucket sky. Each event in these homes is not just an occasion; it's an experience, enriching every memory created.

Intimate Event in Back Yard of home in Nantucket, MA

Why Your Home Could be the Next Great Event Venue

For homeowners in Nantucket, offering your property as an event venue can be an enriching experience, both personally and financially. Here's why this opportunity stands out:

NANTUCKET RESIDENTIAL HOME RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES

Contact Bernadette if you're curious about the possibilities and want to learn more about how your home can play host to some of Nantucket's most memorable occasions. She’d love to connect with us for an in-depth discussion on how to make the most of your property as an event rental opportunity.

Bernadette Meyer

EMAIL:
[email protected]

PHONE NUMBER:
508.680.4748

  • Focus on Outdoor Spaces: Many events in Nantucket utilize primarily the outdoor areas of private residences. As a homeowner, this should ease concerns about the interior of your home. Event planners like us focus on where to place tents, outdoor kitchens, and restroom facilities, ensuring the majority of the activities take place outside
  • Option for Full Property Rental: While most events focus on the outdoors, you have the option to offer your entire house for rental, allowing event hosts and guests to stay on-site. This flexibility can add to the appeal and utility of your property for potential renters.
  • Financial Benefits: Renting out your home, especially during peak seasons, can provide a significant income stream. This is particularly advantageous given the limited inventory of homes available for events on the island.
  • Balanced Use of Property: You can enjoy your home during peak summer weeks and benefit from rentals during shoulder seasons like June and September. This balance allows you to enjoy your property and simultaneously capitalize on its rental potential.
  • Diverse Event Opportunities: Catering to a variety of events, from social gatherings to professional meetings, diversifies your income sources. Each event type brings different rental opportunities, maximizing your property’s potential.
  • Professional Care and Management: Working with professional event planners ensures smooth operations and the respect and maintenance of your property. This professional approach alleviates concerns about potential damage, particularly for events involving alcohol.
  • Insurance and Regulatory Compliance: Our event planning includes managing insurance and liability, as well as ensuring compliance with local regulations. This offers peace of mind and protects your interests as a homeowner.

Working With a Professional Planner

Working with a professional event planner, such as me, is not just about convenience; it's about crafting an experience with care and respect for your vision and your property. From navigating permits to coordinating vendors and managing unforeseen weather challenges, a professional planner ensures your event is seamless and memorable.

Place Settings at Event at Home By Sea in Nantucket, MA
  • Tailored to You: Every celebration should reflect the unique style and preferences of the host. A professional event planner will ensure that every detail, from the cuisine to the décor, resonates with your personal touch.
  • Local Venue Expertise: Nantucket is home to an array of stunning venues, each with its own character. Having extensive knowledge of these different areas, whether that be downtown, Cisco, Polpis or ‘Sconset, it means matching your event with the perfect setting that not only suits your event’s theme but also adds an unforgettable backdrop.
  • Trusted Vendor Network: Rely on event planners for their network of professionals who ensuring that every aspect of your event is executed to the highest standard.
  • Stress-Free Planning: As your planner, the goal is to alleviate the stress that often accompanies event organization. Taking care of all the logistics, from coordinating with vendors to managing the event timeline, allowing you to enjoy the celebration without any concerns
  • Creative Problem-Solving: Unforeseen challenges? They’re part of the job. Experience and creativity come into play here, ensuring that regardless of what surprises may arise your event remains on track and successful.
  • Compliance and Ease: Understanding and adhering to local regulations is crucial. Navigating the complexities of permits and legal requirements specific to Nantucket, ensuring your event is not just spectacular but also compliant.
  • Seamless Execution: From the initial planning stages to the final moment of your event, ensuring everything runs like clockwork. The focus, meticulous timing and coordination, guaranteeing a smooth and enjoyable event for you and your guests
  • Community Connection: Beyond the event itself, the role often extends to building connections. Whether it’s integrating local culture into your event or networking with island residents, we help bridge connections that enrich your celebration and create lasting relationships.

I invite anyone dreaming of an event on Nantucket, whether in their own home or a rental, to reach out.

Until we meet to plan your next event,
- Maggie Stewart

Photo credits: Katie Kaizer Photography, Rebecca Love Photography and Zofia & Co. Photography

Work With Bernadette

Bernadette’s experience, diligence, and professionalism has earned her the distinction of being one of Nantucket’s top producing real estate brokers.

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