Elm Bank Weddings - wedding photography & venue guide

If you're dreaming of a romantic garden wedding near Boston, The Garden at Elm Bank offers an enchanting setting with lush botanical gardens, historic charm, and a private, serene atmosphere. Part of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, The Garden at Elm Bank is located just 30 minutes from Boston in Wellesley, MA. This stunning venue provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and elegant receptions.

Whether you envision a whimsical garden wedding, a formal celebration in a historic estate, or a nature-inspired event surrounded by seasonal blooms, an Elm Bank wedding is a breathtaking choice.

Why Get Married at Elm Bank?

A Botanical Paradise for Wedding Photos

With 12 beautiful gardens on a 36-acre estate, Elm Bank offers diverse backdrops for your wedding photos, from formal European-style gardens to lush, natural landscapes. Some highlights include:

The Italianate Garden, with elegant fountains, pergolas, and vibrant seasonal flowers
The Bressingham Garden, with vibrant perennials and ornamental grasses
The Olmsted-designed Manor Garden, featuring classic New England charm
The Weezie’s Garden for Children, a whimsical and colorful space perfect for unique portraits

Historic Elegance Meets Natural Beauty

Elm Bank is home to the Massachusetts Horticultural Society and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The venue blends classic New England charm with well-manicured gardens, offering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere for your celebration.

Convenient Location Near Boston

Situated in Wellesley, just 30 minutes from downtown Boston, Elm Bank provides the perfect mix of accessibility and exclusivity. Your guests will enjoy a short drive while escaping into a private garden oasis.

Reception Spaces

The Carriage House (Hunnewell Building) – A spacious, historic venue with vaulted wood ceilings, exposed beams, and a warm, rustic-elegant ambiance. It accommodates up to 200 guests.
The Maple Grove – A beautiful space for a tented wedding reception in the heart of nature.

Elm Bank Wedding Details

Location	900 Washington St., Wellesley, MA 02482
Capacity	Up to 200 guests
Ceremony Options	Outdoor garden spaces
Reception Options	Historic Carriage House & tented reception areas
On-site catering?	No, but outside caterers are welcome
Parking	Available on-site
Rain plan?	Indoor options available

Portrait among the gardens at Elm Bank wedding

Elm Bank Wedding Costs & Booking Information

Pricing for Elm Bank weddings varies based on season, guest count, and specific spaces used.

Typical Pricing for Elm Bank Weddings

Venue rental fees typically range from $7,500 – $12,000, depending on the day and time of year
Peak wedding season is May–October, when the gardens are in full bloom
Off-season rates may be available for winter or early spring weddings

Since catering is not provided on-site, couples have the flexibility to choose their own caterer, giving you complete control over your menu. The venue provides a list of preferred vendors, but you're welcome to bring in your own professionals.

For the most up-to-date information about availability, pricing, and tours, visit the Massachusetts Horticultural Society’s Elm Bank Weddings page.

Why Choose Elm Bank for Your Wedding?

✔ Gorgeous seasonal gardens for outdoor ceremonies and portraits
✔ Flexible indoor & outdoor reception spaces
✔ Easy access from Boston while feeling private and secluded
✔ Historic venue with timeless elegance and charm
✔ Unique photo opportunities in a multitude of unique garden spaces

An Elm Bank wedding is perfect for couples who love natural beauty, refined elegance, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. If you're looking for a romantic garden wedding venue near Boston, this is a must-see. Having photographed numerous weddings at Elm Bank, I can confidently say it’s a photographer’s dream venue. The lush gardens provide a stunning array of colors and textures, shifting beautifully with the seasons. The ever-changing light, combined with a perfect mix of shaded areas and open sunlit spaces, creates endless opportunities for breathtaking imagery. I'd love the opportunity to chat about your Elm Bank wedding plans and see how I can help capture your day in a way that feels natural, beautiful, and authentically you.

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