Botanical Garden Weddings: The Simple, Beautiful Choice
By Well Chosen Weddings
Planning a wedding can be a lot. I’ve been there! If you’re dreaming of a pretty, peaceful place to say “I do,” a garden wedding might be perfect for you. Here’s what you need to know.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Garden Wedding?
- Why Pick a Wedding in a Garden?
- Pros of Outdoor Weddings
- Cons of Outdoor Weddings
- Things to Consider for a Garden Wedding
- Printable Garden Wedding Checklist
- Emergency Kit for Outdoor Weddings
- Key Takeaways
What Is a Garden Wedding?
A garden wedding is just what it sounds like—getting married outside, in a garden. You’re surrounded by flowers, trees, and open sky. Sometimes it’s at a botanical garden. Other times it’s in someone’s backyard or a local park.
Why Pick a Wedding in a Garden?
I love outdoor weddings. They feel fresh and simple. You can let nature be your decor. You don’t need much to make it feel magical. Just a few chairs, flowers, and your favorite people.
Pros of Outdoor Garden Weddings
1. Nature Is Free Decor
You don’t need a lot of extras. Trees, flowers, and sunshine do the work.
2. Great for Photos
The light is better outside. Photos look dreamy.
3. Garden Weddings Are Budget-Friendly
No need to rent a fancy venue. Some parks and gardens are very affordable.
4. Garden Weddings Have A Relaxed Vibe
An outdoor wedding feels cozy and calm. It’s perfect for small weddings or elopements.
Cons of Garden Weddings
1. Weather Worries
Rain or heat can mess with your day. Always have a backup plan.
2. Bugs
You might need bug spray, since flowers attract bees, too.
3. Limited Power and Bathrooms
Not all gardens have electricity or enough restrooms. Check ahead.
Things to Consider for a Garden Wedding
1. Bathrooms
Make sure there are clean bathrooms close by. If not, rent nice portable ones.
2. High Heels
Heels and grass don’t mix. Let your guests know ahead of time, and offer heel protectors!
3. Windy Conditions
Wind can mess up your hair, blow decor, blow out candles, or flip your veil. Use strong clips and weight down centerpieces.
4. Angle of the Sun
Bright sun in your eyes during the ceremony? Not fun. Visit the garden at ceremony time before your big day. Find the best spot with shade or soft light. Cute wedding favor idea: have a basket of sunglasses for your guests. Read my blog on Cute Wedding Ideas here.
5. Bugs and Allergies
All the flowers and trees are lovely, but they can attract bees or stir up allergies. Bring bug spray and tissues.
Garden Wedding Checklist
Garden Wedding Planning Checklist:
- ☐ Choose your garden or park
- ☐ Check for permits or reservations
- ☐ Walk through the space at ceremony time
- ☐ Rent chairs and tables
- ☐ Book a tent or a backup plan
- ☐ Find portable restrooms if needed
- ☐ Plan flowers and simple decor
- ☐ Check power needs (lighting, sound)
- ☐ Notify guests about shoes/dress code
- ☐ Bring bug spray and sunblock
- ☐ Set up a small refreshment or water table
- ☐ Hire a photographer with outdoor experience
Emergency Kit for Outdoor Weddings
Things happen! Here’s what to pack in your Garden Wedding Emergency Kit:
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Clear umbrellas
- Tissues (for allergies and happy tears)
- Bobby pins and extra hair ties
- Safety pins
- First aid kit (band-aids, Advil)
- Portable fan or hand fans
- Heel protectors
- Blotting paper for shiny faces
- Hand sanitizer
- Towelettes or wipes
Key Takeaways
- A garden wedding is perfect if you love flowers and sunshine.
- Nature saves money on decor.
- Plan for weather, bugs, and sun.
- Think ahead about heels, bathrooms, and wind.
- Use a checklist and emergency kit to stay stress-free.
