Harmony Gardens - Wedding Site

Ceremony

Outdoor - Covered, Outdoor - Not Covered

Country Inn / B&B, Place of Worship, Rustic (Farm/Field)

Agnostic, Baha'i Faith, Buddhist, Christian (no denomination), Christian - Anglican, Christian - Baptist, Christian - Catholic, Christian - Episcopalian, Christian - Lutheran, Christian - Methodist, Christian - Mormon, Christian - Orthodox, Christian - Presbyterian, Christian - Quaker, Evangelical, Hindu, Islam, Jainism, Jewish, Muslim, Shinto, Sikhism, Taoist

No

No

Yes

No

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Our site was designed specifically as a ceremony site. It is just perfect for this.

the prices are done based on the number of people, but with flexibility.

I will help you create a beautiful ceremony which might incorporate special rituals.

the chairs are included in the fee.

no, not at all!

no, bring what works for you!

yes, to a point! a toast is fine.

enough :)

eco-friendly is encouraged... but you won't need them because the garden is beautiful.

Two restrooms, one is wheelchair accessible. I also provide a private place for the bride (and a few of her people)

plenty of room right by the ceremony site.

50

Harmony Gardens Includes:

Three different size circles…

Choose one, or use all three in unique ways. They are connected by grass walkways. For example: the groomsmen might wait in one circle to enter from the side, the bridesmaids in another – entrances can be made from the side gardens of from the main entrance to the center circle. Talk to us about this and other ways to use the space.

The gardens are brimming with flowers in season, ornamental grasses and shrubs, trees and a water feature.

Two restrooms (handicap accessible) and an air-conditioned lounge directly across from the ceremony site

Access to guest rooms in our home for the bride (and bridesmaids) to change on-site if needed

Electricity at site, and convenient parking.

A rain plan – your ceremony will be on the on our veranda, which will be set up appropriately

Seating for up to about 35 people.

Eco-friendly (chemicals never used in our gardens, we’re organic all the way… recycling and reusable approach is encouraged)

Complimentary ‘water service’ on warm days – we provide pitchers of our great well water and glasses – no bottled water/plastic to dispose of

Pet friendly, too! Let’s talk about that.



Tips for outdoor wedding ceremonies...

Outdoor wedding ceremonies are very popular, and for good reason. There is nothing more delightful than being in the beauty of nature to celebrate your marriage. However, weather issues are obviously of the upmost importance when planning your outdoor ceremony.

I always feel that it’s the ‘in-between’ weather situation that is the hardest to deal with. If it’s raining then there is no question that the ceremony will move indoors. If it’s beautiful out, than the ceremony proceeds. It’s that threatening situation that causes the stress. And the bride, or the couple together, has to make the call. My own concern is always my PA system, which is of course, electrical and not exactly rain-friendly. I don’t mind getting wet, but don’t want my sound system damaged or anyone electrocuted! The same is true for the DJ’s or musicians on hand.

Here are some tips for successful outdoor wedding planning:

Rain plan - have a good one. Think it through. Picture yourself getting married in the indoor (alternative) location, and then figure out how to make it great. Candles, flowers, rugs, all can cozy up a less-than-perfect spot.

Umbrellas or blankets in baskets – this is a favorite trick of mine. If it’s a late in the season when it could possible turn cold – have lots of lap blankets available. You can borrow them from friends and family, roll them up and tuck them into some baskets to dress up the situation. Remind your guests on the invitation to dress appropriately for the season. Have shawls for your bridesmaids.

Tents – Although its unfortunate to have to pay for something you may not use, if budget permits, reserve a tent in advance. You just can’t get a tent at the last minute.

Check where the sun and shade will be at the time of day and time of year – there’s nothing more uncomfortable than having the sun shine directly into your eyes as you are trying to watch the wedding ceremony, and the same goes for the couple and attendants. Sometimes simply moving to a shady spot or changing the orientation of the chairs and alter site can make a world of difference.

Wind – Flower arrangements can blow over with a gust of wind. I love the iron stake type hangers that hold flower baskets, they really resist the wind. The baskets can be removed after the ceremony and brought into the reception.

Can everyone hear? Sound outdoors dissipates. For a wedding over about 40 or so guests, your officiant should have the use of a sound system.

Water and beverage station – for summer weddings have something available for your guests while they wait in the heat.

And finally, a couple of small points – I do not recommend using an aisle runner outdoors, especially in grass or an uneven surface. And women, watch those high heels – they can be very troublesome on grass as well!

I hope these ideas help you as you plan an outdoor wedding. And finally, your attitude will go a long way in helping you and everyone enjoy your outdoor wedding. If you simply come to terms with the most basic fact of life – that we cannot control the weather – and go with the flow, you’ll be fine. In the end, you will still be married, and that’s something to celebrate!