Houston, the city known for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, is also home to some of the most enchanting garden wedding venues. Imagine exchanging vows under a canopy of blossoming flowers or dancing the night away under a starlit sky. These garden venues offer a romantic and serene ambiance, making them perfect for couples who want to celebrate their love amidst nature’s beauty.
Popular garden wedding venues in Houston
River Oaks Garden Club
One such venue is River Oaks Garden Club, where love truly blossoms. With its picturesque gardens, River Oaks Garden Club creates the perfect setting for an unforgettable wedding day. From the moment you step foot into the venue, you’ll be captivated by the lush greenery, fragrant blooms, and charming pathways that wind through the gardens. One thing I found really interesting about this Houston Garden Wedding Venue is the history of it. This historic establishment was built in 1910 and has been owned by the River Oaks Garden Club since 1942. It was originally built to be a school house, and then later on was remodeled to be the garden venue. It is open to the public for viewing, for a romantic stroll if you wish! If you want to learn more about it, click here.
Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens
This place is truly magical, with so many different settings but still a very secluded feeling. I truly adore this location for couples who are looking for a Houston garden wedding venue. They have a huge lake with ducks and pathways surrounding it, which make for amazing picturesque opportunities. They also have so many pathways that are filled with nature and florals! I personally love walking through the trails, hand in hand with my husband, just soaking up the sun and enjoying the sounds of nature. When considering an engagement session at a Garden in Houston, there are some things to factor in. I’ve outlined a few below for you! In my experience as a Houston Wedding Photographer, these are some of the most important things to preplan.
Not only do these garden venues provide a stunning backdrop for your special day, but they also offer a range of amenities and services to ensure a seamless experience. From expert wedding coordinators to customizable menus, you can trust that every detail will be taken care of. If you’re dreaming of a magical garden wedding in Houston, these enchanting venues are sure to bring that dream to life. So, take a stroll through the gardens and let the love and beauty of these venues inspire you as you plan your perfect day.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Garden Wedding Venue
Weather
Houston weather can change at a moments notice. This is good and bad, since temperamental weather can change quickly and clear up. However, it is always a bright idea to have a backup plan in case the weather does take a turn for the worst. Fortunately, if the weather does in fact look awful, you’ll have that backup plan in hand. Likewise, if it looks scattered, just waiting it out is going to be ok during that cocktail hour! Party on, friends.
Allergies
Many Houstonians struggle with this on the daily, so it’s nothing new. BUT if you are very sensitive to Houston pollen or tree allergies, it is wise to weigh the pros and cons to having a Houston wedding at a garden venue. Now, with that being said, if the ceremony and formal pictures are the only things happening outside, some allergy medication may be all that’s needed. But on the flip side, if this is a big issue for you or for some of your guests, may want to take that into consideration.
Shade
Most garden centers luckily offer plenty of shaded areas. Shade is great for photos because it offers soft and diffused light, which is flattering on everyone! When you are looking into Houston Garden Wedding Venues, it’s a great idea to take pictures at the same time of day as your ceremony so that you can get a feel for what the light will be doing. Don’t forget to factor in Daylight Savings time, if it’s around time change. This makes a huge difference for photographers as far as what type of lighting they need to bring and what their plan for your photos will be. If you’re looking for a skilled wedding photographer in Houston, send me a message and we can chat! I’d love to document your special day.
Time of year for blooms
Such a big thing to consider that is underrated, is what time of year to plan your garden wedding in Houston. If you’re thinking spring, that’s great! Don’t forget to have a backup plan though. Rain is very popular in the spring here and you don’t want a downpour for your special day. Also, guess what rain brings–mosquitoes! You don’t know mosquitoes till you’ve met the Texan versions we have. They are on another level, so be prepared. Misters are also a great option for bugs, so give that some thought if possible.
I encourage lots of brides to consider avoiding midday summer garden weddings in Houston. While it may sound and BE beautiful, being in a heavy wedding gown midday in July isn’t going to be your best idea. You’ll sweat in places you never thought of, so if you want a summer wedding, make sure to plan it in the evening at dusk.
Tips for planning at a Houston Garden Wedding Venue
Use the blooms as your inspiration and main source of decor. The whole reason you’re getting married at a garden is to enjoy the amazing view, right? Embrace it and save on decoration budget by eliminating unnecessary purchases that will detract from the florals. Florals will also never go out of style, so it’s a classic and timeless look that’s sure to impress.
I suggest deciding your color scheme and going from there. Start with a simple palette and add to it as necessary. Is your wedding in spring and you want vibrant colors or are you having a fall or winter wedding and envisioning moodier vibes? This is a great opportunity to create a welcoming and seasonally appropriate vibe for your Houston garden wedding.
PRO TIP: At the end of the night, have you thought about where the flowers go? Most brides don’t really factor that into the equation when planning decor, but when the crew begins tear down, it’s ideal to have a plan of where to send all of the stunning florals. Do you want to have a sign that invites guests to take an arrangement at the end of the night? Or do you have someone who can load their truck up and take them to a nursing home to brighten residents days? Thinking about these logistics beforehand will ensure they don’t just go to the trash. Let them be enjoyed by others during the following week!
Conclusion: Choosing the Perfect Garden Wedding Venue in Houston
As you can see, there are a lot of things to consider when planning that perfect Houston Garden Wedding at your Venue. I truly think that a garden venue is ideal for most weddings and situations--when I book a bride that is planning this type of event, I get so excited! If you’re in the midst of planning a wedding, feel free to visit some of my other blogs that are geared towards wedding planning for brides and grooms;
3 Amazing Outdoor Houston Wedding Venues
The Rise of Micro Weddings in Houston
5 of the Most Luxurious Wedding Venues in Houston
5 Small Wedding Venues in Houston that are Truly Magical
A Guide to the Best outdoor Wedding Venues in Houston!
