Can't Have an Outdoor Wedding? Find Out How to Bring the Outdoors In

There is nothing more inviting than welcoming your guests into an enchanting garden that is not only romantic but filled with whimsy and surprises. When most couples think of spring or summer weddings, they imagine the magnificence of an alfresco venue on a perfect day under a clear sky.

While outdoor venues are stunning, we at Victoria Dubin Events love the philosophy of transforming indoor spaces to bring the outdoors in, creating an ethereal backdrop for both your ceremony and celebration in any season.

Photo by Roey Yohai Studios; Planning & Design by Victoria Dubin Events

How Do We Make an Indoor Wedding Inspired by the Outdoors Feel Authentic?

In the Northeast, where we have many weddings, it’s not always possible to embrace the outdoors in the spring, but all the same ingredients needed to create a garden environment are still there – we love recreating a garden vibe indoors. Once the sun goes down, our imagination can take over, creating any desired environment our couples dream up.

Bring the Outdoors to Your Escort Card Display

Picture this: as guests arrive, they’re greeted by a blooming escort card arrangement, perhaps adorned with cherry blossoms, which are only available during the first few weeks of spring, since guests are always amazed by their beauty and grandeur.

Design Centerpieces Inspired by Outdoor Gardens

Perhaps you would prefer to see a garden of springtime wildflowers sprouting right up from the tables, with lush trees intentionally placed throughout the venue.

Engage Your Guests' Five Senses

Anything is possible while trying to incorporate the outdoors, and it is important to engage your guests’ five senses – you can even capture the sounds of nature, from birds chirping to a soft piano and string ensemble to set the scene.

Photo by Ira Lippke Studios; Planning & Design by Victoria Dubin Events

Make an Entrance & Transform Ballrooms Into Gardens

Why not lead guests through a flowering or moss-covered gate into a ballroom adorned with stunning linens, mirrored tables, and floral centerpieces in a spring palette? Add flickering candlelight, specialty china with hand-painted flowers or plants, colorful glassware, and bespoke flatware for an extra touch of elegance.

Create an Immersive Garden-Inspired Experience

The walls of the venue can be projected with images of secret gardens or urns overflowing with moss, suspended foliage, flowers, and statues as a focal point to evoke the charm of European gardens, creating an immersive, picturesque “alfresco” dining experience in nature.

Transform the Bar with Outdoor Design Elements

Transform the bar area with moss or foliage-covered elements and lanterns suspended overhead, inviting guests to sip on creative springtime cocktails that are a nod to the couple’s favorite libations.

Photo by Ira Lippke Studios; Planning & Design by Victoria Dubin Events

Don't Forget the Dance Floor!

A special dance floor, whether a custom-designed graphic appliqué or a smoked bronze mirror, can further reflect the surroundings.

Get Creative with Lighting Elements That Will Transport Guests

All of these intentional design elements can then be enhanced with soft ambient lighting, making it feel as though you’re dining and dancing under the stars.

Designing with Intention

Every detail, from personalized stationery to attire and music to cuisine, should be purposeful and harmonize with your one-of-a-kind design and outdoor-inspired theme.

We always feel each and every design element is part of the whole, and all details should be deliberate, personalized, and creative. You can even consider suggesting a clever dress code for your guests, adding to the festive atmosphere and allowing your attendees to become part of your décor.

Photo by Roey Yohai Studios; Planning & Design by Victoria Dubin Events

Let the outdoors be your canvas for adventure and an escape into the revelry of your imagination. Whether you dream of a rustic-chic wedding or a glamorous affair, an indoor venue can be fully transformed into a breathtaking garden oasis and designed to bring the outdoors in.

Go into your wedding day eliminating the stress and worry of unpredictable weather – without the anticipation of sudden showers or uncomfortable temperatures, you can fully relax and enjoy your day – no umbrellas needed!

This story was originally published in the Spring 2025 issue of Inside Weddings magazine. To order a copy of the Spring 2025 issue, visit our library of Inside Weddings back issues available for purchase. For more ideas, find out what wedding registry items couples often forget and see popular wedding registry items!

Opening photo by Hechler Photographers; Planning & Design by Victoria Dubin Events