How to Create a Magical Garden Party Wedding

There’s something endlessly charming about a garden party wedding. Maybe it’s the wildflowers brushing against your legs, the scent of fresh grass and elderflower in the air, or the joy of dancing under the open sky with the people you love most. Garden weddings invite a sense of ease and authenticity, a celebration of nature, of community, of love in its most grounded form.

Whether you’re planning a laid-back gathering in your own back garden or dreaming of a bigger bash in one of Devon’s stunning outdoor venues, here are some ideas to help you bring your garden party wedding to life, with heart, creativity and a big dose of fun.

Choosing the Right Garden Setting

First things first, the location. Garden weddings can take many forms, from small and personal to lush and luxurious. The key is finding a space that feels like you.

You might choose:

• Your own garden, for that unbeatable personal connection
• A private venue with garden space, like The Garden House near Yelverton or the historic grounds of Killerton
• A meadow or wildflower field, for a more natural, off-grid vibe

Think about the practicalities too: Is there enough space? Will older guests be able to move around easily? Is there shelter or shade if the weather misbehaves (as it sometimes does in Devon)?

Suggested local gem: National Trust Gardens in Devon with stunning backdrops for those who love heritage and greenery in equal measure.

Styling Your Garden Party Wedding

Garden styling is all about working with the surroundings. You don’t need to go over the top. A few simple touches can transform the space and reflect your story.

Some favourite styling ideas:

• Bunting fluttering between trees
• Wild, seasonal flowers in jam jars or watering cans
• Trestle tables with soft linens and hand-picked blooms
• Festoon lights or lanterns for that golden hour glow
• Hay bales with cosy blankets for casual seating

Consider working with local growers for your flowers, or even foraging if you have permission. Sustainable, DIY styling not only feels good, it often looks even better.

Food & Drink for a Garden Party Feel

Forget stiff menus and silver service. A garden party calls for food that feels celebratory and relaxed.

Some delicious ideas:

• Afternoon tea with vintage crockery and towers of scones
• Picnic hampers filled with local cheeses, chutneys and bread
• Sharing platters of seasonal salads, roast veg and marinated meats
• Food trucks or grazing tables for guests to nibble at leisure
• Prosecco stations, gin bars or lemonade stands

Don’t forget dessert. A DIY ice cream cart or a Devon cream tea station always goes down a treat.

For local suppliers and food inspiration: Food Drink Devon

Making It Meaningful: Ceremony Ideas

As a celebrant, this is my favourite part, helping you create a ceremony that feels totally you.

A garden ceremony can be:

• Held under a tree, in a gazebo, or beside a flower arch
• Surrounded by benches, picnic rugs or eclectic chairs
• Accompanied by acoustic music, birdsong or the laughter of your loved ones

You might choose to include:

• A symbolic ritual like planting a tree or tying handfasting ribbons
• Readings from friends and family (or even a shared poem)
• A blend of traditions, cultures or spiritual elements that matter to you

Because your love is unique, your ceremony should be too, relaxed, joyful and full of connection.

Find out more on my Devon wedding blog

Garden Party Games & Entertainment

Keep the fun going with games and entertainment that match the vibe. Think: low-key, outdoorsy and full of laughter.

Try:

• Croquet, giant Jenga or lawn boules
• Acoustic musicians or roaming performers
• A chill-out corner with picnic rugs, cushions and maybe a tipi
• Firepits for marshmallow toasting or late-night chats

Kids (and adults) love bubbles, garden treasure hunts or even a DIY photo booth with flower crowns and props.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

A little planning goes a long way in a garden setting.

• Weather backup: Have parasols or a marquee ready just in case
• Toilets: Hire stylish portable loos if you need extras
• Power and lighting: Battery-operated lanterns or a small generator if necessary
• Neighbours: Let them know ahead of time (or invite them!)
• Support: Hire a coordinator or have a trusted friend keep things flowing

Your wedding should feel fun, not stressful. Having a few logistics sorted means you can truly enjoy the moment.

Garden Party Vibes for All Kinds of Love

A garden is the perfect setting to celebrate every kind of love. It’s inclusive, open and free from rigid expectations.

Whether you’re a bride and bride, a groom and groom, a non-binary couple or a blend of all the above, your wedding should reflect who you are.

Make it yours:

• Choose inclusive ceremony wording
• Celebrate chosen family as well as biological
• Create traditions that feel meaningful to you

Love doesn’t come in one shape. And your wedding shouldn’t either.

Ready to Plan Your Garden Wedding Ceremony?

Garden party weddings are full of soul. They offer the freedom to celebrate in your own way, surrounded by beauty, laughter and the people who matter most.

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, meaningful ceremony that fits perfectly into your outdoor celebration, I’d love to help.

Get in touch to chat about how we can create a ceremony that blooms with joy, just like your love.

Contact me to start planning your garden wedding today.