As a provider of luxury wedding photography and videography services near Nashville, Tennessee, we’ve been privileged to capture moments at some of the area’s most exquisite outdoor wedding venues.
The vibrant music scene, rolling hills, and enchanting scenery make Nashville an ideal destination for couples seeking a remarkable outdoor location to begin their lifelong journey together.
Here, we’ll explore some of the most highly regarded outdoor wedding venues in Nashville, chosen for their stunning landscapes, our own experience of ease in capturing beautiful images, and the overall magnificence of the grounds.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, a Nashville Classic
We’ve written about them extensively but they bear repeating. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a historic estate located just a few miles southwest of downtown Nashville. The estate features 55 acres of meticulously manicured gardens, as well as several indoor and outdoor spaces for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Some of the most popular spots for outdoor weddings at Cheekwood include the Wisteria Arbor, the Boxwood Garden, and the Swan Lawn.
Pros and Cons: Cheekwood’s sprawling landscape offers numerous picturesque spots for ceremonies and photos. The various garden settings provide a unique experience for guests. However, the expansive grounds may pose logistical challenges, and some spots might require additional decor to match specific wedding themes.
Belle Meade Plantation, a Southern Staple
Belle Meade Plantation is a historic mansion and grounds located in the heart of Nashville. The property features several outdoor wedding venues, including the Reflection Pool, the Boxwood Garden, and the Carriage House Lawn. The estate also offers several indoor event spaces, including the Harding House, which is ideal for intimate ceremonies and receptions.
Pros and Cons: Belle Meade’s rich history and versatile spaces allow for customized experiences. The plantation’s elegance is a pro for many, but its historical associations as a real plantation should be a consideration.
Cedarwood Weddings, and their Gorgeous Garden Cathedral
Cedarwood Weddings is a private estate located just 20 minutes north of downtown Nashville. The property features over 50 acres of rolling hills, fields, and forests, as well as several outdoor wedding venues. Some of the most popular spots for outdoor weddings at Cedarwood include the Garden Cathedral, the Meadow Hill, and the Mooncake Lake. Our personal vote is on the Garden Cathedral, just FYI.
Pros and Cons: Cedarwood’s natural settings create a fairytale-like backdrop. Its various locations offer something for every taste. On the downside, transportation to the slightly remote location may need careful planning, and weather backup plans are essential.
Mint Springs Farm, Technically in Nolensville
Mint Springs Farm is a picturesque wedding venue located just outside of Nashville in Nolensville, Tennessee. Yeah, we know we said we would only list Nashville proper- but this one was too good to pass up. The property features several outdoor wedding venues, including the Oak Lawn, the Grand Barn, and the Lodge at Mint Springs Farm. The venue also offers several indoor event spaces, including the Mint Springs Farm House, which is perfect for intimate ceremonies and receptions.
Pros and Cons: Mint Springs Farm provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Its remote setting adds exclusivity but might complicate logistics for guests. The range of outdoor and indoor spaces adds flexibility but may overwhelm couples with too many options.
The Cordelle, Nashville Hidden Gem
The Cordelle is a historic mansion and event venue located in the heart of Nashville. The property features several outdoor wedding venues, including the Courtyard, the Garden, and the Porch. The venue also offers several indoor event spaces, including the Mansion, which is ideal for larger ceremonies and receptions. This wedding venue is really the best of both worlds- an intersection between something truly modern and something fascinatingly vintage.
Pros and Cons: The Cordelle’s central location makes it accessible and convenient. Its blend of indoor and outdoor spaces suits various wedding styles. However, its popularity leads to limited availability, and nearby urban noise might intrude on the serenity of outdoor events.
In conclusion, Nashville is home to some of the most stunning outdoor wedding venues in the country, and we are forever grateful that it’s so close to home for us. Whether you’re looking for a historic estate, a picturesque farm, or a scenic vineyard, Nashville has it all. I highly recommend considering one of these venues for your big day. They all offer unique and beautiful settings that will make your wedding day truly unforgettable.
