When selecting your wedding venue, a botanical garden wedding has always proven to be an ideal choice. Specifically, a New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) wedding in Bronx, New York, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, refined elegance, and perfect for a scenic setting. With 250 acres of gardens, seasonal blooms, and a variety of spaces, NYBG is one of the most sought-after venues in the city.

Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph a beautiful wedding at NYBG. The couple took full advantage of the lush outdoor spaces, vibrant floral displays, and seamless event flow that this venue offers. From a private vow exchange before the ceremony to a lively reception with heartfelt speeches, every part of the day reflected the couple’s vision for a meaningful and picturesque wedding.

Why Choose a New York Botanical Garden Wedding?

Hosting a wedding at NYBG provides couples with a naturally stunning backdrop, ensuring breathtaking photos at every turn. The venue offers a variety of settings, from open-air garden ceremonies to elegant indoor receptions. This allows for a completely customized experience that suits different wedding styles.

Key benefits of choosing a botanical garden venue include:

• Seasonal Beauty: The gardens change throughout the year, offering a unique setting no matter the wedding date.
• Spacious and Versatile Venues: From intimate garden alcoves to grand event spaces, NYBG accommodates weddings of all sizes. There are two venues at this location – Stone Mill, for more intimate weddings, and the Garden Terrace Room for larger celebrations.
• Exclusive Atmosphere: Despite its location in the Bronx, the gardens feel like a secluded retreat, providing a quiet, serene setting away from the city.
• Built-in Décor: With vibrant flowers, manicured lawns, and scenic pathways, the venue naturally enhances the aesthetic of any wedding.
• Convenient Location: Situated in New York City, it is easily accessible for guests traveling locally or from out of town.

Private Vows in a Secluded Garden Setting

Before the ceremony, the couple opted to exchange private vows in a quiet corner of the garden. This beautiful setting, surrounded by greenery and softly filtered sunlight, provided an intimate space for them to reflect and connect before walking down the aisle.

Private vow exchanges also allow for flexibility in the ceremony itself. Some couples prefer to keep their public vows traditional and concise, while reserving personal sentiments for this quieter moment. The secluded pathways and shaded garden spaces made for a beautiful and peaceful start to the wedding day.

An Outdoor Ceremony at New York Botanical Gardens

One of my favorite features of the New York Botanical Garden is the ever-changing display of seasonal florals. Couples can select a wedding date that aligns with their preferred aesthetic, ensuring that the natural surroundings complement their wedding design.

• Spring Weddings: Expect cherry blossoms, tulips, and magnolias in soft pastel hues. These delicate blooms create a romantic and airy atmosphere, perfect for a classic spring wedding.
• Summer Weddings: Lush hydrangeas, vibrant roses, and towering perennials fill the garden with color and texture. The rich greenery and full blooms create a bold and elegant setting.

For this wedding, the ceremony was held in an open-air space framed by seasonal flowers in peak bloom. Guests were seated in a semi-circle formation, allowing for unobstructed views of the couple as they exchanged vows. The natural floral arrangements provided a polished look letting the garden’s beauty shine through.

Effortless Décor for a Botanical Garden Wedding

A major advantage of a Botanical Garden wedding is the built-in décor provided by the landscape. The gardens naturally enhance the wedding’s aesthetic whether you decide to incorporate elaborate floral installations or a minimalistic style.

• Ceremony Florals: The couple embraced the garden’s natural beauty, keeping ceremony décor minimal. A simple floral arrangement at the altar complemented the existing blooms without overpowering the space.
• Reception Ambiance: The reception space featured views of the gardens, bringing the outdoor beauty indoors. Table arrangements incorporated fresh flowers that mirrored those found in the gardens, maintaining consistency throughout the event.
• Photography Backdrops: Every corner of NYBG offers a unique setting for portraits. From tree-lined paths to open meadows, the venue provides endless opportunities for stunning wedding photos.

From Heartfelt Speeches to the Lively Reception

Following the ceremony, guests gathered for cocktail hour before moving into the reception space. The transition between events was seamless, with each part of the evening designed to flow naturally into the next. One of the highlights of the reception was the series of heartfelt speeches. Thoughtfully prepared and deeply personal, these speeches celebrated the couple’s journey and the relationships they had built along the way. The evening progressed with a carefully curated menu, followed by a lively dance floor as guests celebrated into the night.

Planning a New York Botanical Garden Wedding

For couples considering a New York Botanical Garden wedding, here are a few planning tips:

1. Choose the Right Season – Consider the floral displays and weather conditions that best suit your wedding vision. Spring offers soft pastels, while summer provides rich and vibrant blooms.
2. Consider the Flow of Events – NYBG offers both outdoor and indoor spaces. This allows for smooth transitions between each part of the celebration.
3. Coordinate with Seasonal Blooms – Work with your florist to align floral arrangements with the garden’s natural aesthetic. This will ensure a cohesive look throughout your wedding.
4. Plan with Your Photographer – A seasoned photographer will know the best locations for portraits throughout the gardens. Tip: Make sure your photographer has photographed at NYBG before to ensure they will take advantage of the diverse scenery offered.
5. Book Early – As one of the most sought-after venues in New York, NYBG wedding dates tend to fill up quickly. Early booking ensures availability for your preferred date.

A Perfect Blend of Nature and Elegance

This New York Botanical Garden wedding was a stunning example of how nature and thoughtful planning can create an unforgettable event. With a backdrop of seasonal blooms, seamless event flow, and a serene atmosphere, NYBG offers everything couples need for a refined and elegant wedding day.

If you’re considering a Botanical Garden wedding, NYBG is a top choice for its natural beauty, convenient location, and versatile event spaces. For more New York wedding inspiration, check out A Guide to the Ideal New York Wedding Weekend or A Perfect Nautical New York Wedding at the American Yacht Club.

Vendors

Photographer: Siobhan Stanton Photography Venue: New York Botanical Gardens HMUA: Cherry Le Day of Coordinator: Events by Sheavonne Brides Dress: A Little Something White Bridal Bridesmaids: Azazie  Groomsmen: The Black Tux Florist: Artsy Flora Band: A Perfect Blend Entertainment