Getting Married at UC Berkeley Botanical Garden: Everything You Need to Know
Planning your dream wedding in the Bay Area? The UC Berkeley Botanical Garden is one of the most enchanting, naturally stunning places to say “I do.” Nestled in the Berkeley Hills, this lush oasis offers a perfect blend of serene nature, diverse plant life, and unforgettable backdrops for your wedding photos.
As a Bay Area wedding photographer, I’ve captured many love stories at this magical venue, and I can confidently say—it’s one of my favorite locations for a nature-inspired ceremony.
Why UC Berkeley Botanical Garden Is the Perfect Wedding Venue
1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty
From towering redwoods to serene garden paths and exotic plants from across the globe, the UC Botanical Garden offers a wide variety of scenic spots. Couples love the Redwood Grove Amphitheater, a popular ceremony site that feels like something out of a fairytale. The natural lighting filtering through the trees creates a warm, romantic glow—perfect for wedding photos!
2. Intimate and Unique
Whether you’re planning a micro wedding or a larger celebration, the venue offers flexible options. The garden only hosts one wedding at a time, giving you a truly private experience surrounded by nature.
3. Eco-Friendly and Local
Getting married in a botanical garden supports conservation and sustainability efforts. Plus, the venue reflects the beauty of the Bay Area’s landscape—ideal for couples who want to keep their wedding connected to nature and community.
How to Book the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden for Your Wedding
Booking your wedding at the UC Botanical Garden is easy, but it’s best to plan early—this venue is in high demand, especially in spring and summer.
Steps to Book:
Visit the Garden’s Official Website: Head to botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu and navigate to their “Rentals & Weddings” page.
Submit an Inquiry Form: Fill out the form with your preferred dates, guest count, and contact information.
Schedule a Tour: View the garden in person and get a feel for the ceremony and reception spaces.
Review the Wedding Package: Choose from ceremony-only or full-event options. The Redwood Grove is the most popular choice, but there are other areas available too.
Reserve Your Date: Once approved, pay the deposit and start planning your dream day!
Nearby Accommodations for You and Your Guests
Berkeley has plenty of charming and convenient places to stay—perfect for wedding guests traveling from out of town.
Top Picks Nearby:
Graduate Berkeley – A stylish, boutique hotel just minutes from campus with vintage charm.
Hotel Shattuck Plaza – A modern hotel in downtown Berkeley with easy access to restaurants and BART.
Claremont Club & Spa – A luxurious option just a short drive away, perfect for a honeymoon suite or bridal party prep.
Berkeley City Club – A historic hotel with gorgeous architecture and ambiance.
For guests looking for budget-friendly options, there are also several Airbnbs and extended-stay hotels in the area.
Pro Tips from a Wedding Photographer
As someone who’s photographed many weddings at the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden, here are a few insider tips:
Golden Hour is Everything: Plan your bride and groom portraits around sunset for the most magical lighting.
Embrace the Setting: You don’t need much decor—let the natural beauty do the work!
Bring Comfy Shoes: Some pathways are uneven, so a backup pair of flats is smart.
Book a Photographer Familiar with the Garden: Knowing the best photo spots and light patterns makes a huge difference. I’d love to help capture your day!
Let’s Tell Your Story
If you're considering getting married at the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden, you’re choosing a venue full of heart, beauty, and timeless charm. As a passionate wedding photographer who knows this space inside and out, I’d be honored to help document your love in one of the Bay Area’s most iconic locations.
💌 Ready to chat about your wedding day? Get in touch here!
