About Indianapolis
Founded in 1821, Indianapolis, a bustling city in the Midwest known for its hospitality and friendly locals, is an iconic destination for travelers. The 14th most populous in the United States and largest city in Indiana, Indianapolis has noteworthy attractions such as Monument Circle, White River State Park, and Lucas Oil Stadium.
Besides offering plenty of leisure activities, Indianapolis also features several exciting opportunities for couples tying the knot. Located in central Indiana, the city is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, making it a perfect place for those looking to say “I do” outdoors in the warm sunshine.
Imagine saying your vows surrounded by greenery and then celebrating with family and friends at a beautiful botanical garden or picturesque park, with stunning views of downtown skyscrapers and lush green lawns overlooking a lake. Indianapolis has plenty of verdant venues for your romantic outdoor ceremony needs; from classic botanical gardens to outdoor courtyards encircled by lush foliage, there is an option to suit every need.
Garden Wedding Reception Options in Indianapolis
- Catering
A caterer delivers food, beverages, and staff for an event. They help with set-up, décor, and menu planning to provide a luxurious experience. Additionally, they have connections with the best local vendors who can supply linens and other decorating needs.
- Floral Designers
A floral designer personalizes a garden wedding reception venue. They create stunning centerpieces based on the season or theme of the wedding, as well as gorgeous bouquets and boutonnieres for the bride and groom.
- Live Music
Whether you choose a band, string quartet, or solo musician, live music is always a great addition to any wedding reception. Beautiful music fills the air while guests enjoy their cocktail hour or dinner, creating an unparalleled atmosphere that will leave everyone feeling relaxed and happy.
- Photo Booths/Photographers
Having photo booths at your reception allows guests to have fun taking goofy pictures together that they can take home as keepsakes. Professional photographers are also invaluable, capturing those special moments from the ceremony and reception.
Garden Wedding Reception Vendors in Indianapolis
- Molly & Myrtle
Molly & Myrtle provides unique and captivating floral designs and vintage rentals for special events. Each piece allows room for everything to breathe while maintaining a light and whimsical atmosphere. Their commitment to sustainable design ensures that everything is American-grown or American-made. The attention to detail is unparalleled, delivering everything from hand-lettered signage to hand-crafted copper frames and structures.
- Mills Catering LLC
Mills Catering LLC provides full-service catering with staffing and beverages. With a focus on creative menus, transparent pricing, and personalized service, they have catered to special occasions for years. The team offers various service styles and menus for any event, including surprise birthdays and wedding receptions.
- ShutterBooth
ShutterBooth is the go-to company for anyone looking for a memorable photo experience. Whether yours is a small wedding or a big corporate event, they have the expertise to deliver a fantastic time. With a range of options available, including their open-air photo booth, Old Fashioned photo booth, and Enclosed curtained photo booth, they have something that matches the vibe of your event.
Pros and Cons of Garden Wedding Reception Venues in Indianapolis
Garden wedding receptions offer the opportunity to enjoy a private, outdoor setting for their special day. While there are many advantages to having a garden wedding reception in Indianapolis, there are also some potential drawbacks.
Advantages
- The picturesque natural beauty of an outdoor garden setting adds an elegant and unique feel to a wedding ceremony and reception.
- Garden weddings provide more flexibility and catering options, as it is easier to coordinate with outside caterers than if the reception were held indoors in a venue such as a banquet hall.
- Depending on local regulations, getting permits for outdoor events could be a breeze due to fewer restrictions on noise levels and other considerations.
Disadvantages
- Inclement weather is always a risk with outdoor events, so couples should consider that they may need the ability to move indoors if necessary.
- If couples do not choose an enclosed or covered venue, they should handle wind or harsh sunlight conditions to ensure comfort.
- Gardens can often have bugs and insect infestations, which can cause distractions or irritation.
Tips on How to Organize Garden Wedding Receptions in Indianapolis
Organizing a wedding reception in a garden can be a beautiful and meaningful experience. However, it also requires much thought and organization to make it successful. Here are five tips on how to make a garden wedding reception memorable.
- Consider the Weather: Indiana summers can be humid and hot, so choose a venue with plenty of shade or air conditioning. If you are worried about unpredictable weather, consider renting tents for additional protection.
- Mindful Decorations: Be considerate about the environment when decorating. Use natural elements to bring out the beauty of the garden. For example, include stones, twigs, and leaves as table decor or hanging flowers from trees to create a magical ambiance and add that special touch.
- Choose the Right Seating: Limit seating options to chairs and benches that are easily portable and comfortable enough for guests to sit in for extended periods. It might also be a good idea to rent comfortable couches for smaller groups who want privacy away from the dance floor or main activity area.
- Consider Lighting Options: When hosting a night event in an outdoor setting, consider lighting options such as candles or string lights that can help create an inviting atmosphere for guests while preserving the natural beauty of your outdoor location.
- Take Advantage of Outdoor Spaces: Most gardens have various areas with different landscapes, such as ponds, trails, and meadows provide unique settings for wedding photos and other activities during your wedding reception. Taking advantage of these outdoor spaces will ensure that you create lasting memories on your special day!
Famous Locations in Indianapolis
- The Indianapolis Cultural Trail
The Indianapolis Cultural Trail provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore the downtown area and its surrounding neighborhoods. The trail boasts more than $4 million worth of public art, including murals, sculptures, and installations scattered along its path. The most impressive pieces are at the Glick Peace Walk, where visitors can take a break and enjoy one of a dozen sculptural gardens. For those who want to explore the trail without walking, bike rentals are available at any of the 29 stations located throughout the path.
- Madam C.J. Walker Mural
The legacy of Madam C.J. Walker, the first self-made woman millionaire, is immortalized in a large outdoor mural located on the Martens building at the intersection of Indiana and Senate avenues in Indianapolis. The mural features the hair-care entrepreneur alongside one of her top products. As the founder of a company specializing in hair and beauty products for Black women, Madam Walker changed the beauty industry forever. The mural is a tribute to her philanthropy and the opportunities she provided for Black professionals, artists, and entertainers.
- Hinkle Fieldhouse
Hinkle Fieldhouse, the historic home of the Butler Bulldogs, has been a landmark venue for basketball enthusiasts since 1928. Its contribution to the game has been recognized with its status as the only arena in the nation to be declared a National Historic Landmark. Apart from hosting the Bulldogs games, the fieldhouse has been a place of interest for several events, including six presidential visits, military barracks during WWII, circuses, and even professional basketball games.