Eloping in a Botanical Garden: A Nature-Filled Wedding Without the Hike
When you think of eloping outdoors, you might picture a mountaintop, a desert overlook, or a tucked-away forest trail. But eloping doesn’t always have to mean hiking boots and long treks into the wilderness. If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by nature—with lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and quiet, romantic pathways—a botanical garden elopement might be the perfect fit.
Why Choose a Botanical Garden for Your Elopement?
Botanical gardens are designed to highlight the beauty of the natural world in an accessible, curated way. You’ll be surrounded by flowers in every season, unique plants you wouldn’t find elsewhere, and peaceful gardens that feel like a hidden escape right in the heart of the city.
Unlike a mountain or desert elopement, botanical gardens typically:
Don’t require hiking—you can step into incredible scenery within a few minutes’ walk.
Offer variety in one place—from rose gardens to wooded paths to water features.
Provide seasonal color—spring blossoms, summer greenery, autumn foliage.
Are easily accessible for guests—perfect if you’re inviting a handful of family and friends.
The Atmosphere: Romance Meets Ease
Eloping in a botanical garden strikes the balance between intentional simplicity and natural beauty. You’ll get all the romance of being outdoors without worrying about unpredictable terrain, finding parking in the middle of nowhere, or breaking a sweat before your vows. It’s an ideal setting for couples who love the outdoors but prefer a more relaxed, elegant vibe.
A Real-Life Example: Boerner Botanical Gardens in Milwaukee
One of my favorite examples is Boerner Botanical Gardens, just outside Milwaukee. The garden is full of winding paths, perfectly maintained blooms, and quiet spots that feel intimate and secluded. Whether it’s exchanging vows under a canopy of trees, in front of a colorful flower garden, or by a charming stone fountain, Boerner offers endless options for creating a day that feels uniquely yours.
A Real-Life Example: Boerner Botanical Gardens in Milwaukee
The photos in this post were taken at Boerner Botanical Gardens in Milwaukee, Wisconsin—a favorite spot of mine for elopements and portraits. The gardens are full of winding paths, vibrant seasonal blooms, and charming architectural details like stone fountains and pergolas. Whether you want to exchange vows under a canopy of trees, in front of colorful flower beds, or by a quiet fountain, Boerner offers endless options for creating a day that feels intimate and beautiful.
For couples closer to Madison, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is another wonderful option. With its tropical conservatory, rose gardens, and unique Thai pavilion, it offers a completely different but equally stunning garden experience.
Things to Consider for a Garden Elopement:
Permits & reservations: Many gardens require a permit or fee to hold a ceremony or take professional photos.
Timing: Early mornings or weekdays often mean fewer crowds and softer light for photos.
Season: Decide what kind of atmosphere you want—spring blossoms, summer roses, or golden autumn leaves.
Guest count: Botanical gardens often have guest limits for ceremonies, so they’re ideal for true elopements or intimate weddings.
Final Thoughts
Eloping in a botanical garden gives you the best of both worlds: the beauty of nature and the convenience of a more structured location. Whether you’re drawn to the elegant gardens of Boerner in Milwaukee, the vibrant blooms of Olbrich in Madison, or another botanical garden entirely, you’ll find that these spaces create the perfect blend of romance and ease—no hiking required.
If a botanical garden elopement feels like the perfect fit for you, I’d love to help capture your day in a way that’s natural, meaningful, and true to your story. You can explore more about what I offer and see details on my collections below:
