Location
The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences (LBIF) is located on the coast of New Jersey on Long Beach Island. This historic venue in Loveladies, founded in 1948, is minutes from the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. The Foundation and its staff welcomes couples for wedding ceremonies, receptions, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, wedding welcomes, engagement parties and celebrations.
LBIF's unique campus on 22+ acres on LBI is nestled between the bay and the beach, with beautiful views of the bay and beach access for beach ceremonies. The property offers bright, open indoor spaces within a unique mid-century modern designed architecture. LBIF is one of the most picturesque locations on LBI with its many natural backdrops, creating a relaxed, tranquil setting with ocean breezes and beautiful skies. Couples will find outdoor walking paths with natural landscaping and meadows, native plants, wildlife, ospreys and the natural beauty of LBI.
Venue description
The main building was designed by architect George Daub in 1948 and features a main open space art gallery with a twenty-foot vaulted ceiling and natural lighting. The Gallery can seat guests for formal dinners or buffets, with a stage for music and space for dancing. The main gallery can be transformed into a stunning reception venue with personalized decor. No two weddings are alike! Contemporary art exhibitions adorn the walls of LBIF's indoor reception space and add to a sophisticated experience for your guests during your celebration. In addition to the main Gallery, the venue offers use of its varied outdoor spaces which includes a beautiful lower deck area for a cocktail hour, overlooking the vista of the salt march and magnificent sunsets as a backdrop for photography. The upstairs deck overlooking the Barnegat Bay is another perfect location for a cocktail hour. The property has space for the rental of outdoor tents, large or small. Within a five-minute walk, a beach ceremony is possible with direct access to the beach across the street. In addition, there is an abundance of on-site parking.
LBIF is the ONLY venue on Long Beach Island that provides couples with the freedom, space and flexibility to curate the wedding of their dreams. LBIF's in-house wedding planner is available by appointment to help consult or plan your wedding. Extra fees may apply. We offer our highly recommended and preferred vendors references to choose from or allow outside vendors for a greater personalized touch.
History
The LBIF was founded in 1948 by artist Boris Blai, a student of the Paris sculptor Auguste Rodin. For those who love art history, Rodin is best known for his statue, "The Thinker," and other artwork depicting human realism. In addition to studying under Rodin, Blai also was the Founder and Dean of the Tyler School of Art, Temple University in Philadelphia. The LBIF continues Blai's vision in its mission to enhance the creative arts and the physical sciences for all age groups from children to life-long learners.
What You'll Love About Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences
This venue is located within a nature preserve, with wildlife, birds, salt air and gorgeous vistas for photography. It allows for a fully customizable backdrop for any style wedding with your personal details to abound. Booking only one wedding per weekend, each wedding is unique. Our incredible staff will work with you to ensure you feel supported throughout the entire process. Check out the reviews to see how this unique venue has provided couples with magical experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
As a 501c3, non-profit, the LBIF opens its doors to welcome weddings and celebrations, families and friends, and supporters of the arts and sciences. Together we help support LBIF's mission of bringing education and culture to the community year-round.
