Choosing the ideal venue for your wedding can set the mood for your entire day, and Garvan Woodland Gardens is where every season shines with its unique beauty. This venue provides an unforgettable backdrop for your love story, whether you embrace the blooming romance of spring or the cozy enchantment of winter. Explore our seasonal wedding guide to find inspiration and see how Garvan Woodland nature’s charm comes alive every season.
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Background of Garvan Woodland Gardens
Garvan Woodland is located in Hot Springs, AR 71913, a botanical garden that earned popularity for weddings. It is also a wonderful garden within the University of Arkansas on the shore of Lake Hamilton. Here, you can find breathtaking bridges, waterfalls and cascades, stunning architectural features, and beautiful flowers year-round. These gardens are a haven for creating cherished memories.
Weddings at Garvan Woodland Gardens capture the seasonal magic of Arkansas, enchanting couples with its beauty. As a result, many couples and photographers appreciate this botanical landscape. Let’s explore how to make your wedding at this stunning location truly personal and unforgettable!
Magical Weddings at Garvan Woodland Gardens
The botanical grounds and architectural marvel of Garvan Woodland Gardens make it the perfect choice for wedding celebrations. Lovely couples can choose between indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions for their special day, surrounded by breathtaking backdrops. Additionally, it offer endless photo opportunities. No matter the season, this Hot Springs venue perfectly complements the beauty of your special day. Choose your season and experience the magic of weddings at Garvan Woodland in Arkansas.
Spring: A Symphony of Blossoms
Spring is one of the most popular seasons for weddings at Garvan Woodland. The gardens come alive with vibrant azaleas, tulips, and dogwoods. For a romantic touch, consider exchanging vows near the Anthony Chapel, where towering glass windows let in soft natural light. It perfectly complements the vibrant spring blooms. Morning ceremonies feature crisp air and golden sunlight, while late afternoons create a warm, inviting glow.
Spring Wedding Tips:
- Plan your wedding theme and opt for pastel florals to echo the garden’s palette.
- If there’s an extra budget, couples may provide shawls for guests to stay cozy during cooler mornings.
- Incorporate the garden’s spring flowers into your wedding décor, such as table settings or bridal party arrangements, to highlight the venue’s natural beauty.
- Offer a seasonal menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For instance, light salads, herb-infused dishes, and spring desserts like lemon tarts or strawberry shortcakes.
- Spring days offer soft and flattering lighting, especially during the golden hour. Work with your photographer to schedule time for portraits that capture the gardens bathed in warm, golden light.
- Spring is a popular season at Garvan Woodland, so book your date as early as possible to secure your preferred spot.
Summer: A Lush Paradise
Summer is another season that many engaged couples choose for their weddings at Garvan Woodland Gardens. This time of year offers a lush landscape and is full of life, its dynamic greenery serves as a stunning backdrop for memorable celebrations. The bride and groom may choose the picturesque Four Seasons Garden or the elegant Perry Wildflower Overlook for the ceremony. Evening weddings are ideal to avoid the midday heat and to capture the magical golden hour light.
Summer Wedding Tips:
- Plan your ceremony during the cooler hours, such as early morning or late evening. Evening weddings are especially magical, with the golden hour providing stunning lighting for photos.
- Consider lighter fabrics for the wedding attire to keep everyone comfortable.
- Offer thoughtful touches like fans, parasols, or cold towels to help your guests stay cool.
- Setting up a hydration station with water and refreshing beverages is also a great idea.
- Choose a ceremony location with natural shade, like under the canopy of trees or in one of the garden’s more sheltered areas, to keep everyone cool and comfortable.
- Summer brings bugs, so have insect repellent available for guests and consider citronella candles to keep them at bay.
Fall: An Autumnal Dream
Fall is one of the most picturesque times at Garvan Woodland Gardens, so take advantage of the vibrant foliage and serene settings for breathtaking portraits. Couples will love the beautiful scene of reds, oranges, and gold during this season. The delicate autumn leaves and cooler temperatures make it ideal for the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden photoshoot. An intimate spot perfect for newlyweds, while the cascading waterfalls provide a soothing soundtrack for your vows.
Fall Wedding Tips:
- This time of year can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and suggest guests do the same. A light shawl for the bridal party adds both style and warmth.
- Fall light is soft and golden, perfect for capturing stunning photos. Schedule your ceremony to end just before sunset for those magical golden hour shots.
- Opt for rustic or natural wedding décor. Consider wood accents, burlap table runners, or lanterns to enhance the autumn aesthetic.
- Serve hearty, seasonal dishes like roasted vegetables, butternut squash soup, or apple-inspired desserts. Pair these with warm beverages like mulled wine or spiced cider.
Winter: An Enchanted Escape
Winter weddings at Garvan Woodland Gardens are nothing short of magical. The serene, bare trees create a minimalist beauty. Moreover, the gardens’ holiday light displays add a whimsical touch. Bride and groom may choose the Anthony Chapel which becomes a warm haven, perfect for cozy indoor ceremonies.
Winter Wedding Tips:
- Embrace the winter wedding wonderland of Garvan by incorporating wintery décor like evergreens, twinkling lights, and icy blue tones.
- For outdoor ceremonies, provide blankets for guests and consider heaters or covered areas to keep everyone warm.
- Opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or wool for your wedding attire, also a winter coat or shawl can make for lovely bridal photos.
- Offer warm comfort foods like soup, roasted meats, or hot cocoa, and serve warm cocktails to keep guests cozy.
- Take advantage of the gardens’ serene beauty for unique winter photo opportunities, especially with frosty landscapes.
- For winter weddings, consider indoor entertainment like a cozy fire pit, live music, or games to keep guests warm and entertained throughout the event.
Why Choose Garvan Woodland Gardens?
Why choose Garvan Woodland Gardens for your wedding? This stunning venue offers plenty of space, to be exact it has nine lovely spots. These areas are available for both ceremonies and receptions, with options to suit your budget and guest count. However, couples must remember that a wedding coordinator is required for weddings with 15 or more people including the bride, groom, officiant, and photographer. With its variety of picturesque locations, Garvan Woodland Gardens is perfect for weddings in any season.
1. Anthony Chapel at Garvan Woodland Gardens
The elegant indoor ceremony in the Anthony Chapel is ideal for both intimate and grand celebrations. It features architectural brilliance that will awe your guests and make the celebration unforgettable.
| Amenities / Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| 200 Seating Capacity | Property manager, security guard, sound support |
| Rental prices range from $3,500 to $5,000, with a $750 refundable security deposit. | Access to the Millsap Bride’s Hall and Groom’s Quarters for pre-ceremony preparations. |
| A one-hour rehearsal and a photo pass for 5 people are also included. | |
| Guests will enjoy free entry to the gardens on the day of the wedding | |
| A complimentary garden bridal portrait session is available (advance reservation necessary). |
2. Garvan Woodland Pavilion and Terrace
The Garvan Pavilion is a beautiful outdoor venue with stone paving, Arkansas boulders, and a vaulted ceiling that lets in fresh air. It was designed by E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings and is located next to a flowering garden that blooms year-round. It is popularly known as the largest venue for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
| Amenities / Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| Hold up to 120 guests in the pavilion and 40 on the terrace. | Restrooms are nearby and the Welcome Center is a short walk away. |
| Rental costs $3,000 for 8 hours | Includes chairs and tables. |
| For Chapel wedding and Pavilion reception, couples will get a golf cart shuttle for guests | |
| Wedding guests also get free entry to the Gardens on the wedding day. |
3. Evans Celebration Garden
The Evans Celebration Garden is a beautiful outdoor space next to the Millsap Bride’s Hall. It features a two-level grass terrace surrounded by lush foliage and a soothing waterfall.
| Amenities / Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| The seating capacity is 40 chairs | A package includes the ceremony and an 8-hour Bride’s Hall with a maximum capacity of 48. |
| The garden rental cost for $1,500 per hour | The package provides space for getting ready and reception seating |
| For package ceremony with the Bride’s hall is $2,750. | Free entry to the Gardens for wedding guests. |
4. Magnolia Room
The Magnolia Room is located in the Gardens Welcome Center and setup must be finalized 30 days before the event. Another note for couples, catering must be provided by a licensed caterer with liability insurance. While alcohol service requires an insured caterer with an approved ABC license. Alcohol may only be served from 5 to 6:30 PM. Furthermore, a coordinator is required for the entire rental period.
| Amenities / Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| Can invite guests up to 80 seats | The rental includes ten 5-ft round or 6-ft oblong tables |
| Bride and groom can rent the area for $1,500 for 8 hours | 80 chairs and optional 48-inch tables for cakes or a sweetheart setup |
| AV cart with sound and tech support is available for $150 | Small kitchen with vendor access is also available |
5. Millsap Bride’s Hall
The Millsap Bride’s Hall is part of the Chapel Complex, along with Anthony Chapel and the Groom’s Quarters. It features a central room with oak cabinetry, flagstone flooring, a stone fireplace, a catering kitchen, a large dressing room, and two restrooms.
| Amenities / Inclusions | |
|---|---|
| It seats up to 48 guests inside and on the veranda. | Tables and chairs included |
| The rental is $1,250 for 8 hours | Oak cabinetry, flagstone flooring, a stone fireplace, a catering kitchen, a large dressing room, and two restrooms. |
| The Bride’s Hall/Celebration Garden package is available for $2,750 for 8 hours | Free entry to the Gardens for wedding guests. |
6. Dooley Pergola of Garvan Woodland
The Dooley Pergola is conveniently located near the Pratt Welcome Center. It offers a charming garden setting ideal for intimate weddings or elopements. Couples can invite guests comfortably with 20 seats and with a maximum capacity of 30. It is available to rent for $1,000 for an hour.
7. Koi Pond Meadow
The Koi Pond area at Garvan Gardens is a beautiful outdoor spot for a wedding ceremony and can accommodate up to 20 guests. While chairs are not allowed, blankets can be used for seating. It is ideal for a small reception near Millsap Bride’s Hall. It offers space for a maximum of 48 guests, providing an intimate and charming setting.
8. Perry Wildflower Overlook
Perry Wildflower Overlook, also known as Perry Point, is a stunning vista at the western edge of the Gardens, overlooking Lake Hamilton. The flagstone-paved area is surrounded by lush natural foliage and the site includes a golf cart for up to 5 people. Restrooms are conveniently accessible. Perry Point can accommodate up to 40 guests and includes chairs and tables. The rental fee is $2,000 for 4 hours and is available Monday through Sunday.
9. Southern Inspiration Garden
Intimate or elopement can occur in the Southern Inspiration Garden. It is a beautiful and budget-friendly outdoor space in the Garvan Gardens. Couples can rent the area for one hour, the rental fee is $1,000 Sunday through Saturday. It has a maximum capacity of 20 including chairs. Please note that this location does not have access to power.
Real Wedding: Garvan Woodland Gardens by Legend and Lace Studios
Legend and Lace Studios had the honor of capturing a real wedding at the breathtaking Garvan Woodland Gardens. Sierra and Boone exchanged their vows in the iconic Anthony Chapel, surrounded by its magnificent architecture and the serene beauty of nature. On November 10, 2024, their love story unfolded in a celebration filled with heartfelt moments, elegant details, and unforgettable memories.
Read more about Sierra and Boone’s journey to their special day with this link: Anthony Chapel Wedding: Sierra and Boone’s Joyful Celebration
Conclusion
Garvan Woodland Gardens is an enchanting destination for couples looking to celebrate their union in a breathtaking setting. With venues that showcase the beauty of every season, it offers vibrant spring blooms, lush summer greenery, golden fall hues, and the serene charm of winter. Finally, this stunning backdrop ensures each celebration is unique and magical, with picturesque landscapes and comfortable temperatures year-round. Do you like our featured wedding venue? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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