“If you want an outdoor ceremony, this is the place!” ~Anika W.
“If you are in the process of searching for your perfect fairytale wedding venue, stop now because you have found it!” ~Julia
“My husband and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. If you’re looking for the perfect outdoor wedding venue, honestly, look no further! You will not find a better outdoor venue with a better value, I guarantee it!” ~Kris. W.
“Every guest I talked to raved about everything from the landscaping to the fireplace. I highly recommend The Gardens to anyone looking for a place to get married!” ~ Emily H.
“My now husband and I are so happy and satisfied with the amazing experience that we had, and are so thankful for the above-and-beyond effort that went into making sure our wedding day was perfect! If you choose to have your event here, you will not be disappointed.” ~Julia V.
“All the spaces down to the getting-ready spaces were gorgeous!” ~Anna T.
The sky may be dark, but The Gardens shines at night! From light trimmed buildings to trees strung with twinkle lights, The Gardens creates an atmosphere of pure enchantment. And don’t forget our late night woodfired stone pizza oven. As if it could get any better!
“Our wedding was perfect! From start to finish the staff at The Gardens were always available to answer questions, they were always polite and accommodating. They truly care about every couple that chooses their venue.” – Tracy M.
The Gardens of Castle Rock offers the best variety of idyllic wedding photo backdrops in Minnesota resulting in beautiful and timeless photos.
The lush gardens, wooded pathways, and open grassy spaces provide natural elegance, while the rustic stone walls and handcrafted wood timber structures add charm and character only found at The Gardens.
The venue’s four signature outdoor ceremony spaces—the Lath House’s natural wood arch and large vine-covered trellis, the Grand Promenade’s classic and stately white pergola, the Wedding in The Woods‘ heirloom white pines, and the Lawn’s drystone walls—frame couples beautifully against the landscape. Seasonal flowers, mature trees, and the warm glow of string lights create a magical evening atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive. Together, these features offer a versatile blend of rustic, romantic, and natural elements, making every photo uniquely captivating.
The idyllic outdoor photo backgrounds at The Gardens of Castle Rock are designed not to overpower subjects. Instead, they create a natural frame that adds depth and atmosphere to the image by balancing beauty with simplicity.
The timeless rustic look of the drystone wall on The Gardens’ lawn adds natural charm and character to the outdoor spaces and your wedding day portraits. Photo credit: Jojo’s Photos & Studio
Romance shines at its best as thousands of café lights gently illuminate the Lath House with a soft, enchanting glow. Photo credit: Rachel Lahlum Photography
The elegant attire set against the rustic timbers of the Workshop at The Gardens’ log yard creates a striking and dramatic backdrop. Photo credit: Jeannine Marie Photography
The wall-to-ceiling Montana stone fireplace in The Gardens Suite conveys a sense of romantic intimacy. Photo credit: Courtney James Photography
The Garden Pavilion beautifully frames the couple in this stunning photo. Photo credit: Images By Nic
The Lath House’s rustic features and rick color palette of autumn leaves create a gorgeous backdrop for ceremony photos. Photo credit: Jaimie Lauren Collective
The textures, number and color of Workshop at The Gardens’ Log Yard adds dimension and leads the eye to the couple. Photo credit: Andy Hardman Photography
The Gardens Natural-Stone Fireplace, glowing string lights, and loved ones gathered close create an idyllic backdrop for this unforgettable first dance photo. Photo credit: Jamie Hiner Photography
The golden light and framing of the Grindbygg Inspired Covered Pergola creates an idyllic backdrop for this Minnesota outdoor wedding moment. Photo credit: Andrea Dobbs Photography
Absolutely timeless. The natural textures of The Gardens Suite’s fireplace paired with the couple’s classic attire create a modern and enduring photo. Photo credit: Wild Trail Studio
The perspective of the curved dry stone-stacked wall on the lawn adds depth making the image feel three-dimensional and dynamic. Photo credit: Shane Long Photography
Rustic, natural, and full of character describes the log yard at Workshop at The Gardens and the dashing groom and his groomsmen. Photo credit: Jeannine Maire Photography
The natural woodland backdrop of the Wedding in The Woods creates a serene, romantic setting that perfectly complements the couple’s First Look. Photo credit: Jeff Rybacki Photography
The strong lines and natural tones of the wooden timber frame beautifully draws the eye straight to the couple. Photo credit: Rachel Lahlum Photography
Your wedding day is about celebrating love—your love for each other and the deep love you share with family and friends who’ve supported you along the way. Weddings bring together guests of all ages, and while it’s important to make everyone comfortable, adding a few thoughtful touches for your older guests can make the day even more special. When every guest—from your flower girl to your great-aunt—feels cared for, the joy of the day truly shines.
Here are seven meaningful ways to honor and care for older loved ones at your wedding:
Seat Them in Comfort and Style
Provide cushioned chairs with armrests and place them where guests can enjoy a clear view of the ceremony and reception without struggling to see or move around.
Create Inviting Shady Retreats
Set up canopies, parasols, or lounge areas where guests can escape the sun and relax. Have cozy wraps or pashminas on hand for when the evening turns cool.
Ensure Easy and Safe Paths
Lay rugs over grassy areas or choose smooth pathways to help everyone move about with ease—especially guests using canes, walkers, or wheelchairs.
Upgrade the Restroom Experience
If indoor facilities aren’t available, consider luxury portable restrooms with handrails, sinks, and extra space for comfort and accessibility.
Offer Gentle, Fun Transportation
Make the journey from parking to party a breeze with golf carts, small shuttles, or even a charming wagon ride that doubles as a memorable experience.
Serve Food and Drinks Everyone Can Enjoy
Offer a variety of menu options, including soft, easy-to-eat dishes and refreshing non-alcoholic beverages. A well-timed meal keeps everyone energized and engaged in the celebration.
Share Helpful Details Ahead of Time
Provide information about the venue, terrain, and expected weather so guests can dress and prepare comfortably for your special day.
Strategic seating makes your venue welcoming for all guests. Photo credit: Breese & Brundle
Shuttle service makes arrival and departure stress-free, especially for longtime family and friends. Photo credit: Whims & Joy
Thoughtful menu choices make every guest feel cared for at your wedding Photo credit: Whims & Joy
Sharing details about the terrain, seating, and anticipated weather ahead of time helps longtime family and friends feel prepared and comfortable—especially at outdoor weddings. Photo credit: Bellagala
Accessible pathways that are flat, solid ground make it easier for longtime family and friends to move safely and comfortably between spaces at your wedding celebration. Photo credit: Brooke W. Images
A guest-friendly bar with non-alcoholic options means everyone can raise a glass to love. Photo credit: Summit Hill Studio
Be sure to provide your guests, of all ages, plenty of water throughout the entire event…..a definite must for any outdoor wedding celebration. Photo credit: Ellen Gustafson Photography
Stable seating helps older guests feel at ease, so they can focus on celebrating with you. Photo credit: Nik Linde Photography
Thoughtful seating makes all the difference—keep longtime family and friends comfortable with sturdy, supportive chairs. Photo credit: Abigail Ann Photography
Supportive seating keeps older guests comfortable from ‘I do’ to the last dance. Photo credit: Lollipop Media
The Gardens’ level, even paver surfaces provide safe and accessible pathways for longtime family and friends throughout the venue. Photo credit: Bellagala
Should I bring a jacket? What type of shoes will be best? Can I leave my vehicle overnight? These are just a few questions guests ask themselves when invited to a wedding. Put their questions to rest by providing helpful details in advance. Include important information with your mailed invitation or on your wedding website. Photo credit: Jaimie Lauren Collective
While it’s not the first thing couples think about when looking for a venue, it is important. Accessible restrooms with modern amenities are a definite must, especially for older guests and those with mobility challenges. Photo credit: Michaela Lee Photos
With smooth, even pavers throughout The Gardens, all guests—including longtime family and friends—can explore the venue safely and easily. Photo credit: OliveYou Photography
Don’t leave your guests guessing about what to wear for your outdoor wedding. Share recommendations for attire in your mailed invitation or on your wedding website. Better yet, share the information on both! Photo credit: Charise Healy Photography
Cocktail hour tends to be mid to late afternoon…….the time when hunger sets in. Prevent hangry guests by providing appetizers or snacks. Photo credit: Moore Photography
Shade and seating is KING for guests during cocktail hour. Ensure there is plenty of seating for your guests to sit down, relax and catch up with those they haven’t seen in forever. Photo credit: Charise Healy Photography
Have you ever wished you could step into a storybook—wandering through a world filled with whimsy and romance? For Chi and Ashley, that dream came true on their wedding day at The Gardens of Castle Rock.
The magic of the day began with the first look in the serene Wedding in the Woods and continued into the beautifully decorated Lath House ceremony site. Inspired by Disney’s Tangled and Up, Ashley thoughtfully wove elements from both films throughout the celebration. She even renamed the Gardens Pavilion—home to the bar—the “Snuggly Duckling,” a playful nod to the pub near Rapunzel’s tower. At the candy station displayed on a Gardens Mid-Height Table, guests found a whimsical replica of Carl Fredricksen’s house from Up, complete with thousands of balloons.
The Gardens’ natural beauty, along with the newly added Cruck Frame and Lath House Covered Pergola, created a breathtaking backdrop. The moment Ashley walked down the aisle and into the Lath House to say her forever “I do,” felt like a moment lifted straight from a fairytale. Lining the aisle, lush floral arrangements in a variety of colors, textures, and sizes gave the feeling of discovering a hidden meadow deep within an enchanted forest.
In the Wedding Reception Tent, white café lights twinkled above as oversized, handcrafted flowers seemed to float overhead. The Cedar Banquet Tables were dressed in moss runners, tiny bud vases, glowing votive candles, playful mushrooms, and delicate butterflies—bringing their storybook vision beautifully to life.
As the sun began to set, Chi and Ashley stepped away to share a quiet moment together. Their photographer captured the glow of golden hour as they held each other close—grateful, radiant, and certain they had found their happily-ever-after.
Here’s what Chi & Ashley had to say about their wedding day at The Gardens of Castle Rock, “This venue is straight out of a dream — magical, natural, and beautifully maintained. From the moment my now-husband and I visited, we felt it was fate. Glenn and the staff were with us every step of the way for nearly two years, offering incredible communication and support to ensure our wedding day was seamless. We chose the Lath House for our ceremony, and it was the perfect choice. The multiple photo locations are stunning, and we couldn’t have picked a more enchanting place to start our forever.”
The Gardens Cruck Frame, Lath House Covered Pergola and finally the Lath House – Minnesota’s most unique ceremony location. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Your Happily Ever After begins at The Gardens of Castle Rock. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Anticipation builds as Chi & Ashley see each other for the first time dressed in a gorgeous fairy-like gown and a suit with the jaw-dropping boutonniere. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Everyone has their favorite moment during a wedding day. One of our favorites is when the couple sees each other for the first time……..speechless. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
The Lath House is set and the wisteria with pastel butterflies hang from the ceiling. Ready for the ceremony. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
The wedding party’s pastel color palette aligns perfectly with the time of year the wedding was held…..early spring. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
The Lath House looks like a page out of a storybook……that’s good as the couple wanted a romantic fairytale vibe throughout the entire day. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Chi escorts his mom up the aisle of the Lath House at the beginning of the ceremony procession. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
The arch at the front of the Lath House is available for couples to decorate as they’d like. Chi & Ashley chose to use a soft pink drape with flowers of pink hues and white anchoring it in the middle. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Next up…..members of the wedding party walk up the aisle of the Lath House prior to the big entrance of the bride and her father. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Created by Stargazer Designs, for the couple’s romantic storybook wedding theme, these individual artificial floral installments lined the aisle of the Lath House. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Ashley & her dad have plenty of time to relish the special walk down the aisle to the Lath House…..144 feet to be exact. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
The pops of colors, sizes and textures of each floral installations create a feeling of whimsy. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
With each step, Ashley gets closer and closer to Chi and a lifetime together. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Hand-to-hand, Ashley & Chi make their vows to each other in the Lath House. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
It’s like being in a romantic storybook…..the Lath House at The Gardens of Castle Rock. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Chi reads his sweet vows to Ashley and there isn’t a dry eye anywhere to be seen. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
The new Mr. & Mrs. have their first kiss while guests clap and cheer. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
They did it! Let’s party! Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Don’t forget the kiss halfway down the aisle……it’s picture perfect. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
White café lights with giant flowers hanging down continue the romantic storybook vibe in the Wedding Reception Tent. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Chi & Ashley make their grand entrance into the Wedding Reception Tent ready to celebrate their commitment to one another. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Continuing with the storybook theme, moss runners with flowers, candles, mushrooms, butterflies and candles give off a magical forest vibe. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
There’s nothing like a dip and kiss after entering the Wedding Reception Tent to garner cheers from your guests. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
As fans of the Disney movie Rapunzel, the couple named the bar area under the Garden Pavilion, “The Snuggly Duckling”. The same name used in the movie for the pub located somewhere in the woods near Rapunzel’s tower. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Into the storybook Wedding Reception Tent, Ashley & Chi walk to the head table, an adorably decorated Gardens Sweetheart Table. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Sweet treats abound for guests, on a Gardens Mid-Height Table, with a replica of the Carl Fredicksen’s house (complete with thousands of balloons) from the Disney & Pixar movie Up. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Welcoming and thank you to family and friends who have come to share Chi & Ashley’s special day. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Delicate bud vases along with votive candle holders, mini mushrooms all on a moss runner play into the couple’s storybook enchanted forest theme. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
The dessert table is set with delicious Nothing Bundt Cakes and strawberry cheesecake on a Gardens Mid-Height table. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Chi and Ashley cut a piece from their 2-tiered wedding cake from the very popular Nothing Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
A fun post dinner activity for guests is a S’mores Station where guests can roast marshmallows in the Natural Stone Fireplace. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Chi & Ashley take their first dance as a married couple in the Wedding Reception Tent. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
When you’re in love, even your footsteps feel like dancing. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
At dusk the Lath House takes on a ethereal golden glow. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
With the soft glow of the Lath House in the background, Chi & Ashley share a few moments to themselves. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
As the stars appear, Chi & Ashley embrace in The Gardens’ classic gazebo. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Whether in the day or at night, The Gardens Lath House continues to be the most unique ceremony site in Minnesota. Photo credit: Matthew Eberle Photography
Day-of Coordination: LoveLee Occasions
Catering: Hy-Vee Catering
Beverage Services: With A Twist
Dessert: Nothing Bundt Cakes
Event Decorator: Stargazer Designs
Floral: Stargazer Designs
Photography: Matthew Eberle Photography
Videography: Square One Video Productions
Hair Stylist: Brianna Lepinsky Hair
Make-Up Artist: Rachel Lepinsky
DJ: Josh Clinton
Venue: The Gardens of Castle Rock
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