Q&A with Cat Parmenter

Cat, what’s the wildest wedding moment you’ve encountered so far?

You know that viral list of Craziest Requests Wedding Caterers Have Ever Received—where a couple wanted live chickens at their service? Well, that actually happened at Beach Plum Farm! During a September wedding, a brown Ameraucana chicken strolled down the aisle alongside bride Hanna Miller and groom Daniel Puetter. It wasn’t planned—but it was perfect. When you choose a venue as organic and alive as Beach Plum Farm, nature sometimes insists on being part of the party.

What kind of wedding experiences does Cape Resorts offer?

We have something for everyone — from rustic garden vibes at the farm to big, historic moments at Congress Hall. Want to push the boat out? Congress Hall can host up to 250 guests under a beautiful sail tent on the lawn, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. That lawn has serious history, too—President Franklin Pierce spoke there on the Fourth of July in 1855, and John Philip Sousa performed the “Congress Hall March” there in 1882. It’s truly iconic.

Do many of your couples have a personal connection to Cape May?

All the time. A lot of couples grew up coming here and always dreamed of getting married on the lawn at Congress Hall. And I hear from so many people who attended a wedding at one of our venues and come back years later to plan their own. It’s really special.

Do you have a favorite wedding memory from Congress Hall?

One that stands out was Katie and Gus’s wedding in June 2022. We had a massive sail tent set up for 220 guests, and the forecast called for rain… but we ended up with the most beautiful day. A guest from that wedding—Katie’s sister Caroline—actually booked her own wedding at Congress Hall the following September. It was such a joy to work with their family twice!

What kind of experience does The Virginia offer?

It’s intimate and elegant. We can host elopements, vow renewals, small dinner parties, brunches—even daytime receptions for up to 60 guests. It’s this charming Victorian hotel, just steps from the beach, tucked away on Jackson Street.

And Beach Plum Farm?

That’s for the couple who wants to break the mold — rustic garden chic, staying in the farm cottages for the weekend, farm-to-table dinner in the gardens. It’s laid-back, magical, and feels like a private world of its own. We’re seeing a lot of interest in that kind of experience.

Do you ever get asked for your opinion on what people should wear?

Not usually, but I’ve had brides bring swatches of bridesmaids’ dresses to planning meetings to help match florals or linen rentals. I love when they include me in those little decisions — it all ties together.

Aside from chickens… what’s the oddest request you’ve ever received?

Oh, I’ve heard everything. Synchronized swimmers in the Congress Hall pool. Fireworks. Carousel rides during Winter Wonderland weddings. Full buyouts of the entire hotel. And of course— lots of requests to somehow control the weather! At this point, nothing surprises me.

What’s your top piece of advice for couples planning their wedding?

Invest in your team—your venue, your photographer, your florist, your dress shop. Hire seasoned professionals and let them do what they do best. Don’t get stuck in an endless loop of decision-making. The day goes by in a flash—enjoy it!

Okay, besides Cape May— what’s a dream wedding destination in the U.S.?

The Versace Mansion in Miami. I had dinner there last year and spent the entire night designing reception layouts in my head. Total fantasy.

What about anywhere in the world?

I can absolutely get behind a Mamma Mia moment in Greece or Capri. Give me the sunshine, the sea, and a long farm table with candlelight. Dreamy.