Credit Kristyn Hogan
By Lauren Means
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Cheekwood, where the vibrant colors of blooming flowers paint a picturesque backdrop, love stories come alive in a symphony of elegance and inclusivity. For couples dreaming of a wedding that seamlessly combines nature’s beauty with historical charm, Cheekwood emerges as the perfect stage for their wedding.
For LGBTQ+ couples, Cheekwood is not just a venue; it is a welcoming space where love knows no boundaries. Cheekwood takes pride in its commitment to inclusivity, particularly towards the LGBTQ+ community. With professional consultants and peer-led teams representing diverse backgrounds, the venue actively works towards fostering an environment that welcomes everyone.
Get to planning
Because Cheekwood offers an array of internal public programming and hosts cultural festivals, it opens its books for external events anywhere from one year to one and one-half years in advance. If you are looking at Cheekwood as a potential venue, it is suggested you request a wedding packet early in your planning. From there, Cheekwood suggests couples narrow down which garden and reception space best fits their guest count and budget before scheduling their onsite visit of the property.
Cheekwood boasts seven ceremony spaces and four reception venues, each offering a unique ambiance. The ceremony spaces offer everything from the intimate 35-guest Burr Terrace Garden and a 175-guest Howe Garden with a secret garden-type space feel, to the Wisteria Arbor that overlooks the Reflecting Pool with breathtaking views of the neighboring Warner Park. The reception spaces range from modern, sleek spaces to historic and art-rich feel providing a canvas for a myriad of wedding aesthetics. The reception areas can accommodate any size party of up to 400 guests.
To ensure every detail is meticulously curated, Cheekwood offers the expertise of wedding planners. A month of coordinator is a minimum requirement for all receptions, while full-service planning is required for events exceeding 200 guests. These planners, skilled in the art of orchestrating unforgettable moments, transform dreams into reality against the backdrop of Cheekwood’s natural splendor.
Timeless Tale
Each wedding at Cheekwood unfolds as a unique love story, with every couple contributing their style to the narrative. From first looks to choreographed dances, the magic of love is woven into every moment. Director of Special Events Jessica Ware noted the joy witnessed by guests towards the couple becomes a testament to the warmth and love that Cheekwood cultivates. “We love every moment of all our couples’ big days!” she said.
Locally and nationally recognized for its beauty, historical significance, and excellence in art and horticulture, Cheekwood takes pride in creating an inspiring backdrop for diverse audiences. The juxtaposition of events and gardens captures the essence of each couple’s story, painting a canvas where love and nature harmonize.
As Cheekwood continues to be the canvas for joyous, momentous, and beautiful moments, the promise of being inclusive and affirming is extended to all couples, both present and future. In the heart of Cheekwood, where love blooms, each wedding becomes a chapter in a storybook of timeless celebrations.
Visit https://cheekwood.org/weddings-facility-rentals/weddings/ for more information.
