Houston Garden Wedding, Lott Hall, Hermann Park, Museum District.

Garden weddings are quickly becoming one of the most popular choices for brides seeking to connect with nature and incorporate whimsy and sophistication into their nuptials. While there's no doubt a garden wedding is one of the most beautiful, there are important aspects you should consider before booking your venue to ensure you're special day goes off without a hitch. 

The Season

As with any outdoor wedding, it's essential to consider the season prior to committing to a garden wedding. Fall and winter may be too cold in northern regions, while summer may be too hot and humid in the south. Couples often choose springtime thanks to its blooming flowers and dense foliage, but you may want to consider daily afternoon showers that may occur. Knowing the weather patterns in your area will help you determine what time of year is best for your garden wedding.

The Number Of Guests

Garden weddings are generally more intimate occasions, but they work equally well for larger ceremonies. While locations like botanical gardens may only have room for a limited number of guests, there are garden venues that specialize in accommodating larger parties. While it may not be feasible to wait until everyone RSVPs to book your venue, having a general idea of the number of guests in attendance will help you find the perfect garden location to say "I do."

There Will Be Bugs

It may sound silly, but many a bride has found herself upset by the presence of bugs at her garden wedding. Any outdoor ceremony will have critters around, so be sure to expect that you will see them. The type and amount of bugs are directly dependent on your location and the time of year, as well as any pest control measures taken by the venue. While the idea of having a few winged friends may sound off-pudding, they will most likely not present much of a problem, and most locations put measures in place to limit their appearance.

Your Decor May Be Limited

Depending on the location, you may have limitations to your decor with a garden wedding. Amenities like electricity and indoor plumbing may not be readily available, so be sure to check with the venue operator beforehand. Equipment like generators and portable bathrooms can be added but will incur an additional fee, so be sure to plan for them within your budget if applicable.

You May Have To Pay For Equipment Rentals

Depending on the location you use, you may have to provide your own furniture, tables, etc. While these staples are sometimes included with the venue, you may be required to bring them yourselves. If you've hired a wedding planner (add the link to wedding planner article), they can set up all the details for you, making it a stress-free experience. 

The Type Of Dress

When choosing your wedding dress, you'll want to keep in mind the weather so you can remain cool and comfortable. Avoid choosing a dress that is heavy and restrictive; instead, opt for flowy and breathable fabrics. Many brides are ditching the traditional white gown for a floral embossed design, which is the perfect compliment to any garden wedding. Not only is a colorful dress easier to keep clean, but it will also show beautifully in pictures offset by the stunning garden background. For more information on wedding trends, check out this article! (add link to wedding trend article.)

Lighting And Photography

While there's no doubt that a garden wedding is a prime location for breathtaking photographs, it can present a challenge for lighting. Choosing a wedding photographer who is a lighting specialist is essential, as they will bring their expertise, along with custom equipment, to ensure every photo taken is as beautiful as your love.

Guest Transportation

Providing your guests with transportation to the venue location is a thoughtful addition to your garden wedding. Using a shuttle service will keep everything running smoothly and help avoid unwanted delays. While some garden locations are easily accessible, some may be more challenging for older or less experienced drivers, so be sure to keep transportation in mind when choosing your venue.

The Sound System

If you're planning on having your reception at the same location as your ceremony, be sure to consider the available sound system and whether your DJ or band will need to provide their own speakers. Accessibility to a power source is also important when considering sound, so be sure to check that the location has access to electricity beforehand.

Adding An Inclement Weather Cover

Planning for inclement weather is an essential part of a garden wedding, so be sure to check about available porticos or buildings on the property. You may also choose to add a tent on location, which is an excellent way to pair the beauty of the outdoors with the functionality of an indoor ceremony. These hybrid setups can give you peace of mind and provide you with the perfect indoor/outdoor feel and solve many of the electricity, lighting, and sound issues that naturally occur with a garden wedding.

There May Be Additional Costs

Preparing your budget for unexpected costs is always a good idea when planning a garden wedding since it's not uncommon for unforeseen expenses to arise. Speaking to a wedding planner or the venue owner beforehand is an excellent way to get an idea of any additional costs you may encounter, so you can plan accordingly.

Top Houston Wedding Photographer, David Baker Studios

Garden weddings are a timeless and whimsical alternative to a traditional wedding venue. David Baker Studios is proud to provide couples in the Houston area with exceptional wedding photography that captures the intensity of your love. As lighting specialists, we excel in outdoor locations, working with you to capture stunning photographs that bring your love to life. At David Baker Studios, we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, placing customer service and satisfaction at the forefront of everything we do. When quality, dependability, and integrity matter, turn to David Baker Studios.