There are certain venues that just feel different the moment you step onto the property. Lakewold Gardens is one of those places. I have always loved working at Lakewold Gardens, and this off-season styled shoot gave me the chance to see it with fresh eyes all over again. While I typically plan and direct my own creative projects, this time I got to show up, camera in hand, and simply create. My friend Gina hosted a stunning styled shoot at one of my favorite Washington wedding venues, and it reminded me why Lakewold Gardens is such an incredible setting for couples planning their wedding day.
If you are searching for a romantic, garden-forward wedding venue near Tacoma or Seattle, Lakewold Gardens absolutely deserves your attention.
Why Lakewold Gardens Is One of the Most Romantic Wedding Venues in Washington
Located in Lakewood, Washington, Lakewold Gardens is a historic estate surrounded by gardens, trees, and thoughtfully curated landscaping. It feels tucked away from the world, even though it is easily accessible for guests traveling from Tacoma or Seattle.
What makes Lakewold Gardens such a strong wedding venue is its versatility. The property offers an estate home, lawns, garden paths, and backdrops that change with the seasons. Whether you envision an intimate garden ceremony, a tented reception, or portraits that feel straight out of a storybook, this venue supports it.
If you are curious what a more intimate session looks like here, I also photographed an engagement session at Lakewold Gardens that showcases how romantic this space can feel even outside of a wedding day.
The Power of Styled Shoots at Lakewold Gardens
I love using the off-season to stretch my creative muscles. Styled shoots allow us as wedding vendors to experiment, collaborate, and showcase what is possible in a space without the time constraints of a live wedding day.
This time, I had the joy of being part of a vision led by Gina Paulson. Instead of producing the shoot myself, I got to fully lean into photographing and playing with light, composition, and movement. Creating alongside other wedding professionals who are also friends made the experience even sweeter. There is something special about a team of creatives coming together simply to build something beautiful.
For couples considering Lakewold Gardens as their wedding venue, styled shoots can be incredibly helpful. They show what is possible, highlight how different design choices transform the same space, and offer inspiration without pressure.
Designing an Elegant Garden Wedding at Lakewold Gardens
The design direction for this shoot leaned romantic and elevated, allowing Lakewold Gardens to truly shine. Bixby + Pine handled planning and design, thoughtfully curating each element to complement the natural surroundings rather than compete with them.
Great Jones NW provided rentals that grounded the design while keeping it refined and cohesive. BBJ La Tavola linens added texture and softness to the tablescape, elevating the garden aesthetic without overpowering it. Parcells Flower Co created floral arrangements that felt organic and intentional, playing beautifully against the greenery already present at Lakewold Gardens.
Stationery from 26 Pressed tied the visual story together, adding a tactile, romantic detail that couples can use to set the tone for their day from the very first invitation.
Why Lakewold Gardens Continues to Inspire
Beyond aesthetics, Lakewold Gardens feels intentional. The layout flows well for guests. The ceremony locations feel private and intimate. The estate adds character and history without feeling overwhelming. From a photographer’s perspective, it offers endless portrait opportunities without requiring couples to leave the property. From a planning perspective, it allows vendors to create layered, thoughtful designs that feel immersive. And from a couple’s perspective, it offers that rare balance of romance and approachability. It feels special without feeling inaccessible.
If you are considering Lakewold Gardens as your wedding venue and want photography that captures both the grandeur of the gardens and the quiet, candid moments in between, I would love to document your day.