Craft breweries have taken the country by storm, and Connecticut is our latest stop on the beer trail. If you’re looking for a cool industrial space that you can dress up however you’d like, Stony Creek Beer on the Branford River is a stunner to add the top of your list. Just check out the photos below to see the full setup of this gorgeous space all dolled up by the event designers behind Pearl Weddings & Events. From the romantically layered and candlelit ceremony space to the richly hued dinner table, they’ve left no detail to the imagination.
Photographer Emily Kirke fills us in below, covering all the details of the laidback environment set overlooking the Branford River. She captured the autumnal, bohemian setting in the beer gardens and brewing room. The result is bold, colorful and inspiring, making us want to cozy right up into the lounge seating and crack open a fresh bottle of beer.
Tell us how this styled shoot came about!
Inspired by the bright labels and playful spirit of Stony Creek Beer, Pearl Weddings & Events designed and planned a styled shoot to inspire beer lovers who want a relaxed celebration that is still refined.
The event space's exclusive caterers were looking to show how using an event designer like Pearl Weddings could transform the space into anything you can imagine: a great place to lounge, a romantic ceremony space, and more. Chelsea from Pearl got a group of vendors together that would capture the laid back-cool essence of the space. I was brought on for ability to make images that feel raw and authentic.
Tell us about this brewery venue.
In the small town of Branford, Connecticut there's a brewery called Stony Creek where some of the brightest colored beer labels, the smooth stench of hops, and a killer event space live. The founders are local brewers who have a strong tie to their community and want to see it grow and grow with it.
They attract visitors from Branford and beyond, not only for their brilliant brews, but for their beer garden and event space. The space is a blank canvas for any event with a beautiful view of the Branford river. You have high ceilings and an industrial feel with a front row seat to the brewing room. 
What was the event & design inspiration? Any special touches?
Chelsea was inspired by the raw industrial warehouse space, the Art Nouveau beer labels, and New England autumns to create an event that felt cool, casual, bohemian, and seasonal.
The invitations were clean and simple with watercolor interiors and playful feathers. The food spread was bright and lively while complimenting every beer on tap. The flowers were gracefully designed by Jakkelyn Iris flowers to create a billowing ceremony statement piece where the couple stood near the fireplace. 
How was working at this venue? What was your favorite part?
At Stony Creek, the vibe is chill and the people friendly. Event staff, Ali and Norm love their space just as much as their customers and they have the relaxed personalities perfect for their venue. They love creativity and were open to all of our ideas as we planned our shoot in their space. They also hooked me up with some really good wine (with no judgement!) since I'm not a beer drinker!
My favorite part was the constant barrage of food and alcohol I was offered haha. These people are hosts to the core and treat their vendors and guests like family. 
What food did the venue prepare?
They served roasted veggies, mozzarella and with marinated tomatoes, seared tuna, mini lobster rolls, and shrimp. I think it's hard to do seared tuna well and they did an amazing job. That was my favorite!
What is your top tip for people looking to rent out the brewery for events?
I'd recommend the space if you are a laid-back couple who wants a wedding that's a bit a-typical. Keep in mind that sky is virtually the limit when it comes to customizing the space, so let your wildest Pinterest dreams take flight. 
What kind of events is the space suited for?
This space is unique to the community and has a lot of soul. Weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, and get togethers with friends would all be great at Stony Creek. There are a number of different spaces available to celebrate. The beer is full of personality and is brewed right on site! What more could you ask for if you are a hop lover at heart?!
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Credits
Photography: Emily Kirke Photography | Venue: Stony Creek Beer | Planning + Design: Pearl Weddings & Events | Floral Design: Jakkelyn Iris Flowers | Wedding Gown: Everthine Bridal | Draped Fabric Design: Drape Art Designs | Furniture Rentals: Together LLC | Catering: LaCuisine | Invitations: Max and Maiden Ink | Hair + Makeup: Upstyle | Models: Emily + Daniel
