From Petals To Promises: How To Plan a Garden Wedding
The partner of your dreams.
The amazing proposal and sparkling ring that you’ve dreamed of since you were young.
Now it’s time to plan the magical day to begin your life journey together.
You both agree that a traditional, indoor wedding is just not your style — but a breezy, outdoor setting under the trees and twinkling lights sounds absolutely perfect.
If a beautiful, unique, outdoor venue is what you are seeking, we happened to be experts and can help you bring that dream to life. Keep reading on how to plan a garden wedding that will be remembered for decades to come.
Table of Contents
Why Should I Choose a Garden Wedding?
Every couple has their own ideas of what type of venue would create the ideal atmosphere and setting for their wedding. Finding a venue that matches that mood is the tough part.
For the couple who seek a wedding location that feels quiet and intimate rather than a huge, orchestrated party, you have come to the right place.
Using nature as the main backdrop, planning an outdoor wedding with breathtaking scenery and fresh air can set the perfect stage for your dream day. Offering a unique property overflowing with charm for outdoor celebrations, Twenty Mile House in Northern California will provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable day.
8 Steps To Planning the Garden Wedding of Your Dreams
#1: Choose Venue
Choosing a venue is one of the biggest and most exciting decisions in the wedding planning process. The venue and atmosphere set the tone for the entire day.
Since the venue is such an important decision to make about your special day, some factors to consider may include the following:
Is the venue a private space or a public garden?
Consider what level of privacy you desire. A private garden space will accommodate invited guests only, and a public area may be subject to uninvited guests gathering as onlookers.
Permits may be required for events to be held in public gardens and spaces.
Discuss an alternate plan for rain if the venue is all outdoors.
What amenities are included with the venue?
An all-inclusive venue may have decor, tables, chairs, or other general items that may be used for your wedding.
If the location is not all-inclusive, you may incur significant costs for rental items and other vendors.
Is the venue a suitable size to accommodate your guest list?
Will your guests be able to travel to the venue easily?
Are there accommodations available for out-of-town guests to stay?
Is a wedding coordinator provided with the venue, or will you hire one yourself?
Are there any restrictions on the property?
Are you able to use outside vendors?
Are there any curfews for noise or music?
While there are what seems a million questions to conquer surrounding your wedding day, the experienced staff at Twenty Mile House are here to help. Our all-inclusive packages include the essentials, so you do not have to question how to plan a garden wedding all on your own. The moment you book your date, your planning is complete.
Contact us today to schedule a visit to our beautiful venue.
#2: Check Seasons and Set a Date
Do you prefer cooler weather or a balmy summer breeze? Choose the season that correlates with your vision.
As far as seasons go, spring and summer are typically the peak season for garden weddings when the weather is mild and flowers are in bloom. However, fall is still an ideal time for garden weddings for cooler weather with a rustic setting.
#3: Set a Realistic Budget
As you visit venues for your special day, keep in mind that your venue will likely encompass 30 - 40% of your total budget, so decide how much you can spend before touring.
Plan a manageable budget, but remember to include all the extra costs, such as:
Tables, chairs, linens
Catering
Tents or other rentals
Lighting
DJ, Band, or other entertainment
Portable restrooms
Service fees
Cleaning services
Transportation to and from the venue for you and your guests
#4: Design Your Theme and Color Scheme
In a beautifully natural setting, there is no need to choose another theme — allow the venue’s picturesque surroundings lead the way.
The ideal color scheme and textures should complement the setting, rather than a palette that may clash with the backdrop.
#5: Plan the Ceremony and Reception
Plan your garden wedding ceremony and reception to feel intentional, romantic, and beautifully cohesive amongst nature and trees.
Consider the following suggestions for the perfect atmosphere:
Timing of the ceremony for ideal lighting
Location for the focal points
Under the trees, pergola, or archways
Seating
Wooden chairs, benches, or other natural items
Decor to define the aisle
Florals, lanterns, lighting
Music
Flow of the ceremony
Guest arrival
Processional
Welcome and introduction
Scripture or readings
Exchange of the vows and rings
Pronouncement
The kiss
Recessional
Plan a flow or timeline for the reception
Cocktail hour
Dinner and toasts
Cutting of the cake and desserts
Dancing
The formal send-off for the newlyweds
While maintaining a timeline and a flow for your ceremony and reception can be challenging, the Twenty Mile House staff are happy to coordinate this for the couple and the guests, keeping the planning and the day free from unnecessary stress.
#6: Prepare for Weather
The weather varies and can change quickly, so it is essential to be prepared for anything.
For summer weddings, you may want to offer fans and umbrellas and prioritize shade and hydration stations. Fall and winter ceremonies might benefit from the use of outdoor heaters or cozy wraps and blankets for guests.
Mountain areas may be breezy, so be sure to secure decor and use weighted linens.
Additionally, be sure your venue has a rain plan with covered options available as a backup to ensure your day goes smoothly, no matter the weather.
#7: Add Personalized Touches
A garden wedding already has a romantic, natural backdrop — so your personalized touches can highlight that lush and organic atmosphere while telling your love story in style.
Aside from the beauty of the main venue, personal touches throughout the event from the couple will also make your guests feel welcome. The personalized tone for your day does not have to be expensive, either. Consider items such as:
Potted plant or wildflower centerpieces
Garden-inspired cocktails
Seed packet favors
Locally-sourced flower arrangements
Compostable dinnerware
Pressed flower placecards
Eco-friendly items for the send-off
#8: Finalize the Essentials
Lastly, after you have poured hours into planning your perfect day, review your checklist to make sure everything has been covered
It is also important to establish who will be responsible for the duties of the day, or you can leave that up to the knowledgeable staff at Twenty Mile House so you do not have to worry!
Plant the Seeds of a Perfect Day: 6 Tips for How To Plan a Garden Wedding
#1:Hire Vendors With Outdoor Experience
Vendors can make or break your special day. Be sure to hire vendors who have experience working outdoors or in gardens, such as the following:
Wedding planner
Photographer
Hair stylist
Makeup artist
Florist
Caterer
Bartender
DJ and entertainers
Twenty Mile House has trusted, eco-friendly vendors they can recommend — do not hire a vendor if you are unsure of their outdoor experience.
#2: Have a Backup Plan
Any outdoor event, including garden weddings, should have a backup plan for unexpected circumstances, particularly in regards to weather conditions.
Discuss a rain plan with covered options to ensure your day goes smoothly, no matter the weather.
#3: Let Nature Be Your Co-Designer
Garden weddings incorporate fresh touches of flowers and greenery to complement the natural surroundings, creating a look that blends with the venue’s setting.
Choose decor that gives subtle nods to the region with mountain or forest decor with natural color palettes.
#4: Think About Lighting
Since your ceremony will be outdoors, be sure to check sunrise and sunset times and take note of the natural lighting throughout the day. This will be especially important so your photographer can capture the best memories.
If your celebration will continue after sunset hours, consider adding lighting such as fairy lights or chandeliers in the trees, around the tables, food service, and dance areas.
This is an important item to consider both for ambiance and safety for your guests.
#5: Pick Eco-Friendly Details
At the Twenty Mile House, we want you to have the perfect garden wedding while enjoying nature, but we also value respecting nature.
When planning your unique and special day, please take advantage of our all-inclusive services that include a custom eco-friendly wedding package just for you.
The historic Twenty Mile House is a certified, carbon-free outdoor wedding venue and an approved business with Green America — a national nonprofit membership organization that promotes environmentally-aware, ethical consumerism.
#6: Keep Comfort in Mind
Since you and your guests will be outside, choose attire that allows you to be comfortable for the entire day.
Other outdoor items that you may want to include for the wedding party and guests:
Fans or heaters, depending on the time of year
Blankets or wraps
Plenty of beverages, especially water
Bug spray
Flip flops to allow guests to abandon heels or uncomfortable shoes
Let Twenty Mile House Be the Backdrop to Your Blooming Love Story
From your morning arrival to the final send-off at the end of your unbelievable day, Twenty Mile House is here to help you experience a unique and unforgettable wedding.
Imagine standing hand-in-hand with your beloved one, the breeze gently blowing and the sun filtering through the trees, casting a warm glow around you as you exchange vows surrounded by your favorite people. Twenty Mile House is not another wedding venue. It is your private oasis for the garden wedding that you have dreamed of for years.
Contact us today to begin planning your garden wedding in a breathtaking setting in beautiful Northern California.