If you’re planning a garden wedding in the U.S., you’re probably looking for more than just a pretty backdrop (thats kind of a given!). You want a venue that feels personal and a little magical, where your guests can sip cocktails under the trees, the design feels like you, and the light hits just right for those dreamy portraits.
Whether you’re eyeing a Gilded Age estate like Rosecliff Mansion in Newport, a private garden in Napa, or the European-style splendor of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami (a forever favorite of mine), the right venue sets the tone for everything. And makes it all feel that much easier.
As a garden wedding photographer who’s photographed celebrations all across the country—from Florida to California to the Carolinas—I know what to look for (and what to avoid) when choosing an outdoor venue that checks all the boxes: beautiful, functional, and just the right amount of over-the-top.
This guide breaks it all down: how to find the best garden wedding venues in the U.S., what to consider for guest experience, timeline flow, design, fashion, and all the little things that make a garden celebration feel effortless and wildly you.
Finding Your Dream Garden Wedding Venue
When it comes to garden wedding venues, you have countless options that suit your unique love story. You can exchange vows amidst the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, under ancient oak trees, or next to the peaceful waters of a serene pond. To find the ideal outdoor wedding location, it’s important to explore various garden wedding sites that align with your vision. Consider the following factors:
Location, Location, Location:
Location is everything (and then some)
Before you start spiraling down the Pinterest rabbit hole, start with a region! Are you imagining Southern charm with Spanish moss and oak trees? The elegance of an East Coast Gilded Age Manor (hello, Old Westbury Gardens)? Or maybe something West Coast-y like Hearst Castle? Locking in your general location makes everything else—style, travel, timeline—feel a whole lot easier!
Garden weddings + weather = a little extra planning
One of the best things about a garden wedding is being surrounded by nature. One of the trickiest things? Being surrounded by nature. Pay attention to the season, the heat, the rain forecast, the bugs, the whole deal. You don’t need a plan for every weather scenario ever, but you do want to make sure guests aren’t sweltering in the sun or freezing during dinner. (Also, parasols? A+ for both function and photos!)
Go see it, if you can
There’s just something about walking the space in person that TikTok doesn’t do justice. The light, the layout, how the air feels when you first arrive, it all adds up. If it’s doable, schedule a visit. Take it all in, ask your planner the nitty-gritty questions, and make note of where you’ll get ready, where the ceremony could go, and what the backup plan would look like. It’ll help you actually see your day there, not just imagine it.
Make yourself a cheat sheet
Once you’re touring or researching a few contenders, start a simple comparison list. Jot down availability, pricing, guest flow, noise restrictions, lighting, backup options—anything you’d want to reference later. That way, you can make a clear-headed decision (instead of relying on which one had better Instagram photos).
Themes and Decor for Garden Weddings
Designing a Garden Wedding That Feels Like You
One of the best things about garden weddings? You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. The setting is the statement—your job is just to complement it in a way that feels intentional and personal. Whether you’re leaning playful and colorful or classic with a twist, here are a few ideas to help bring your vision to life:
Let the flowers do the talking
Garden weddings love florals. (Shocking, I know.) Pull inspiration from what’s naturally blooming in the area—think layered textures, untamed arrangements, and florals that look like they grew there on purpose. Bonus points for bringing it into your fashion, paper goods, or ceremony arch.
Lighting that actually matters
When the sun dips low, don’t let the magic fade!! Add soft glowy lighting—string lights, colored taper candles, vintage lanterns, or anything that keeps the mood cozy after dark. Because it’s not just decor, it’s how your party feels once the stars come out!
Color palettes pulled from real life (not trend reports)
Garden settings pair beautifully with colors that feel organic, joyful, and just a little unexpected. Try soft greens, warm browns, vibrant pinks, or blues pulled from old French paintings (Monet would absolutely be a garden wedding guest, let’s be real). Look to the venue’s landscaping, your wardrobe, or even your favorite flower market for inspo.
Make it personal—but in a way that doesn’t feel forced
Little details go a long way. Maybe it’s your vows displayed on a welcome table, hand-painted place cards, or candle colors that reference your grandmother’s garden. The goal isn’t to be clever—it’s to make your guests feel like they know you just by walking into the space.
What to Wear for a Garden Wedding (So You Look Incredible and Can Actually Move)
Garden weddings are a vibe all their own: elegant, a little undone, and full of movement! So your outfit should follow suit: beautiful, breathable, and totally at home among the flowers.
For the brides (or anyone in a gown)
Think light, airy fabrics that flow with the breeze and don’t stick the second the sun shows up. Capes, veils, sheer sleeves, or even floral appliqué details all feel right at home in a garden setting and photograph so well. If you’re going for drama, a cathedral veil in the wild feels gorgeously romantic. If you’re leaning playful, something short and flirty for dancing under the stars is fully encouraged!
For the grooms (or anyone in a suit)
A black tux is never a bad idea, but colored linen suit is also a great choice. Or something breezy with texture that won’t feel like a sauna by ceremony time. Lose the tie if it feels too stiff (a bowtie is more playful), keep the tailoring sharp, and consider adding something fun like a floral pin, a patterned shirt, or a feathered accessory if that’s your thing. Garden settings are the perfect excuse to wear something slightly less traditional—so have fun with it!
Color is your friend
Blush pink, marigold, lilac, buttery yellow—these tones all work beautifully with outdoor spaces and can show up in subtle ways, like a suit lining, wedding party outfits or the embroidery on your dress. Nothing needs to match, and you don’t need to “stick to a palette.” The garden is the palette!
Also: shoes matter
This is not the day for stilettos in soft grass. Think block heels, chic flats, or even a quick shoe change before cocktail hour. You’ll thank yourself later.
Dress Codes Aren’t Bossy—They’re Helpful
Let’s be real: most of your guests want you to tell them what to wear. Especially for a garden wedding, where “formal-ish but outside” can mean anything from a floral sundress to full-on tux. A clear, thoughtful dress code saves everyone the guesswork—and gives you way better photos!
Trust me on this. We got married in a garden in springtime and had a strict colorful dress code because my photographer specialized in whimsical, colorful weddings and I knew the guest attire mattered!
Think elevated but breathable
Sundresses, light suits, flowy fabrics, and anything that feels good in the sun is always a win. Bonus points for florals, texture, and anything that moves beautifully in a breeze.
Footwear matters
If there’s grass, gravel, or any sort of garden path involved, your guests will thank you for the heads-up. Suggest block heels, flats, or stylish loafers instead of stilettos that’ll sink into the lawn five minutes in.
Prepare for the elements
Whether it’s mid-summer heat or a springtime chill, give your guests a little weather guidance! From parasols or fans on the ceremony seats, or a note to bring a jacket once the sun sets.
Include it in your invite or website
Don’t leave it up to interpretation—this is your moment to set the tone. Try something like:
• Pastel black tie
• Cocktail with florals and personality
• English garden with party flair
• Whimsical but make it chic
The more direction you give (with a little room to play), the more your guests will show up dressed like the fabulous, fashionable people they are—and the better your photos will look.
Farm to Table
Your menu can totally match the setting: fresh, unfussy, and full of personality. Whether you’re keeping things laid-back or going all in on elegance, here are a few ideas to make your food and drinks feel just as thoughtful as your florals.
Fresh, seasonal, and local if possible
A garden setting practically begs for a farm-to-table menu. Think heirloom tomatoes, herby pastas, citrusy seafood, or whatever’s growing nearby. If your venue has a garden of its own? Even better. Guests love that kind of connection to place—and it photographs beautifully!
Food stations = fun stations
Interactive stations are always a hit, especially when the party flows between lawn games and cocktail hour mingling. Think oyster shucking, made-to-order tacos, DIY spritzes, or anything that lets guests build their own bites without standing in a buffet line.
Signature sips with a garden twist
Create a drink menu that feels as fresh as the setting. Garden-inspired cocktails with herbs, edible flowers, or seasonal fruit are a no-brainer. Think cucumber gin coolers, lavender spritzes, or basil-infused lemonade with a kick. Add custom stir sticks or fun glassware if you’re feeling extra (and you should).
Garden Wedding Entertainment and Activities
You’ve got the flowers, the fashion, the food—but don’t sleep on the fun. Garden weddings are the perfect excuse to mix timeless charm with playful touches, especially when it comes to entertainment. Here are a few ideas that feel effortless, stylish, and genuinely enjoyable:
Live music that matches the setting
A string quartet playing Rihanna? Hell yeah. A harpist under a tree or a jazz trio tucked in the corner of the lawn? Absolutely. Live music always adds a little magic, especially when it blends with the scenery. Bridgerton-inspired arrangements, acoustic covers of songs you actually love, or a soft Disney soundtrack during golden hour cocktails—it all works beautifully in a garden setting!
Give your guests something to do
Lawn games are a classic for a reason—but let’s make them pretty. Painted cornhole sets, pastel croquet mallets, or vintage-inspired ring tosses can all add charm without clashing with your design. Plus, they’re great for guests who might not hit the dance floor but still want to hang and play.
Fire pit chats> late-night photo booths
When the sun goes down, lean into cozy. A fire pit with s’mores, blankets, and maybe a basket of mini hot toddies or spiked cider is just perfect. And if your venue has animals to pet or a horse-drawn carriage? Go full fairytale! This is your garden party—let it feel a little magical.
Music matters (even if it’s not live)
Whether you’ve got a band, DJ, or carefully curated Spotify playlist, your music sets the mood. Think about what you want the energy to feel like—not just during dancing, but all throughout the day. And yes, mixing in songs that feel like “you two” is always a good idea.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Garden Wedding Photos
It’s so important to choose a photographer (hi, that’s me ) who actually knows how to photograph outdoor venues, in all different kinds of lighting. Someone who can find the good light fast, embrace the environment instead of fighting it, and document real moments without pulling you away from your guests all day and who can look for ways to make the setting part of the story (you chose it for a reason!).
Pro tip: Tell your photographer what matters to you most. Whether it’s a quiet little nook by the fountain, the roses your grandmother planted, or that view right before sunset—point out the spots that feel special so we can build those into portraits. The more we understand your vision, the better we can show up for it!
30 Luxury Garden Wedding Venues in the US
From ivy-covered estates to sun-soaked courtyards and gardens that feel straight out of a painting, the U.S. is full of stunning gardens to say your vows! Whether you’re dreaming of East Coast elegance, Southern charm, or a hidden gem with mountain views and room to party—you’ve got options. Good ones!
As a garden wedding photographer, I’ve spent the last 15+ years chasing good light through rose gardens, citrus groves, and historic estates across the country. And let me tell you: the venue matters. It sets the tone for everything—your photos, your guest experience, your whole weekend vibe.
This list is packed with venues that bring the drama in the best way. Think: sprawling lawns, European-style architecture, secret pathways, architectural fountains, and ceremony spots that don’t need a single added flower to feel magical. These are the kinds of places that make your wedding feel like an experience—not just a day.
1. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Miami, Florida
A European-inspired estate featuring lush gardens, fountains, and stunning architecture reminiscent of an Italian villa.
2. Rosecliff Mansion
Newport, Rhode Island
A Gilded Age mansion with expansive gardens overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering a classic New England setting.
3. Chicago Botanic Garden
Glencoe, Illinois
Featuring an English walled garden and serene lakeside lawns.
4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn, New York
An urban oasis offering diverse settings like the Cherry Esplanade and the Rose Garden.
6. The Crane Estate (Castle Hill)
Ipswich, Massachusetts
A grand hilltop estate overlooking the Atlantic, with sweeping lawns, historic architecture, and garden terraces made for portraits—and champagne toasts at golden hour.
6. Longwood Gardens
Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
Renowned for its exquisite horticultural displays, including the Italian Water Garden and the Flower Garden Walk.
7. Greencrest Manor
Battle Creek, Michigan
A romantic French-inspired estate tucked away in Michigan, with ivy-covered stone walls, formal gardens, and the kind of timeless charm that makes every photo look editorial.
8. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Coral Gables, Florida
A tropical paradise with lush foliage, exotic flowers, and tranquil lakes.
9. Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver, Colorado
Offers a variety of gardens, including the Romantic Gardens and the Water Garden Gazebo, set against the Rocky Mountains.
10. Missouri Botanical Garden
St. Louis, Missouri
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the U.S., featuring historic architecture and diverse plant collections.
11. The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge
Trenton, Georgia
Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, this greenhouse-style venue offers panoramic views, curated gardens, and elegant glass architecture perfect for couples who want that indoor-outdoor feel.
12. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Dallas, Texas
Features 19 finely manicured gardens, including the Woman’s Garden with reflecting pools and sculptures.
13. Norfolk Botanical Garden
Norfolk, Virginia
Offers waterfront views, blooming gardens, and scenic spots like the Renaissance Court.
14. The New York Botanical Garden
Bronx, New York
A National Historic Landmark with an iconic Conservatory and Rose Garden.
15. Filoli Historic House & Garden
Woodside, California
A historic estate with formal gardens, orchards, and a Georgian-style mansion.
16. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Richmond, Virginia
Features a classical domed Conservatory, rose gardens, and a serene lake.
17. The Biltmore Estate Gardens
Asheville, North Carolina
America’s largest home is surrounded by meticulously designed gardens, including the Italian Garden and the Walled Garden.
18. San Francisco Botanical Garden
San Francisco, California
Showcases a diverse range of plants from around the world, with intimate garden spaces perfect for ceremonies.
19. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Vienna, Virginia
Offers enchanting landscapes with lakes, forests, and ornamental gardens, including the picturesque Korean Bell Garden.
20. Oheka Castle
Huntington, New York
This historic Gold Coast mansion feels straight out of a European fairytale, complete with manicured gardens, grand staircases, and photo ops in every direction. Perfect for Taylor Swift fans!
21. The Larz Anderson House
Washington, D.C.
This Gilded Age mansion exudes sophistication and timeless elegance. Designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, it features stunning interiors, including a grand ballroom with ornate woodwork, marble staircases, and a picturesque courtyard perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
22. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Nashville, Tennessee
A 55-acre historic estate featuring botanical gardens, art galleries, and a Georgian-style mansion, exuding Southern charm and elegance.
23. Old Westbury Gardens
Old Westbury, New York
A sprawling estate with 200+ acres of formal gardens, reflecting pools, and a majestic Charles II-style mansion—a classic Long Island favorite for elegant garden weddings
24. Bok Tower Gardens Lake Wales, Florida
A contemplative garden and bird sanctuary featuring the majestic Singing Tower carillon, providing a unique and serene wedding setting.
25. Sarah P. Duke Gardens Durham, North Carolina
55 acres of specialized gardens and landscapes, offering diverse backdrops for your garden wedding
26. The Cloisters Lutherville, Maryland
A castle-like venue with lush gardens, stone architecture, and a romantic ambiance reminiscent of a European estate.
27. Airlie Gardens Wilmington, North Carolina
Offers formal gardens, lakes, and the iconic Airlie Oak, providing a classic Southern garden setting.
28. The Mansion at Glen Cove
Glen Cove, New York
A turn-of-the-century estate surrounded by rolling gardens, stone pathways, and old-world charm. The ballroom is grand, the views are lush, and it’s just far enough from NYC to feel like a true escape.
29. Tower Hill Botanic Garden
Boylston, Massachusetts
Features formal gardens, woodland trails, and panoramic views of Mount Wachusett, ideal for a picturesque wedding.
30. The Secret Garden at Paradise Spring
Lithia, Florida
A secluded venue with lush gardens, waterfalls, and a grand pergola, creating an intimate and enchanting atmosphere.
Okay, that was a lot but garden weddings have so much potential to be ridiculously pretty and personal and fun (and honestly? Your photos are gonna be next-level).
I hope this gave you a bunch of ideas to play with as you start planning, bookmarking, and maybe even obsessing a little. If you’re still venue-hopping or wondering how the heck you’re supposed to choose florals and shoes that won’t sink into the lawn—I’ve got you!
And if you want a photographer who thrives in sunlight, loves a good floral moment, and will absolutely remind you to eat a canapé during cocktail hour… hi, that’s me. Let’s make it happen!
