Looking for the Ideal Outdoor Wedding Venue in Nashville? Nashville offers a variety of scenic outdoor wedding venues that beautifully blend Southern charm with natural elegance. Whether you envision an intimate garden ceremony, a lakeside celebration, or a gathering beneath century-old trees, this guide explores five standout locations that capture the essence of Tennessee’s outdoor beauty. Each venue features distinct architectural and landscape elements, flexible amenities, and plenty of photo-worthy moments—helping you find the perfect backdrop for your big day.
Key Takeaways
- CJ’s Off the Square offers a historic home and gardens for weddings up to 135 guests
- The Estate at Cherokee Dock provides scenic outdoor spaces and can accommodate larger gatherings
- Butterfly Hollow Bed and Breakfast is ideal for intimate weddings with rustic charm
- Cheekwood Estate and Gardens features diverse landscapes and flexible catering options for outdoor events
- Pleasant Hill Mansion provides historic elegance with unique outdoor features and recommended vendor options
An Elegant Garden Venue in the Heart of Historic Franklin
CJ’s Off the Square presents a refined garden setting just south of Nashville, ideal for couples seeking a blend of historic ambiance and intimate luxury. Nestled within a restored 19th-century home, this exclusive venue is known for its lush, manicured gardens and tailored approach to wedding celebrations. Its tranquil setting and timeless architecture offer a sophisticated backdrop perfect for outdoor ceremonies and elegant receptions alike.
Distinctive Features of This Garden-Style Venue
The property showcases a seamless fusion of Southern charm and polished design. With space for up to 135 guests, CJ’s offers multiple outdoor settings—from a serene courtyard shaded by mature trees to a covered pavilion ideal for evening receptions. The grounds are thoughtfully landscaped to provide natural photo opportunities throughout, ensuring every detail reflects the couple’s vision in a setting that feels both curated and comfortable.
Planning a Seamless Celebration with Expert Guidance
Couples who choose this venue benefit from a streamlined planning experience, as the in-house coordination team offers tailored support every step of the way. From menu curation to layout planning, the property’s all-inclusive packages are designed to minimize stress while maximizing elegance. Whether you’re envisioning a refined garden party or a romantic evening under the stars, this venue provides a foundation of service and ambiance that complements luxury event rentals perfectly.
Host a Grand Celebration at the Estate at Cherokee Dock
Set along a tranquil lakefront just outside of Nashville, The Estate at Cherokee Dock delivers an unforgettable outdoor wedding experience defined by grandeur, privacy, and Southern sophistication. Once a private estate and boutique inn, this stately mansion now serves as a premier destination for elevated events—offering expansive grounds and tailored amenities ideal for discerning couples seeking a refined setting.
Scenic Outdoor Spaces with Unmatched Backdrops
The estate’s grounds span a beautifully landscaped property complete with manicured gardens, sweeping lawns, a picturesque lake, and a rustic-luxe barn. Multiple ceremony and reception locations are available, from romantic waterfront views to elegant garden terraces—each offering striking backdrops that complement high-end tenting, lighting, and custom rentals. With natural beauty at every turn, it’s a venue designed for editorial-worthy celebrations.
Key Considerations for Planning at Cherokee Dock
For couples envisioning a larger gathering or a multi-day experience, Cherokee Dock offers ample capacity and thoughtful amenities. On-site lodging, professional coordination, and backup indoor spaces ensure peace of mind—especially when planning an outdoor affair. Whether you’re hosting an alfresco dinner under sailcloth tents or a ceremony on the waterfront lawn, this estate provides the flexibility and elegance needed to bring luxury wedding visions to life.
Intimate Elegance in Nature at Butterfly Hollow
Butterfly Hollow, nestled in the foothills just outside of Nashville, offers a secluded and romantic outdoor setting ideal for couples seeking an intimate, nature-inspired wedding experience. With its quiet meadows, wooded trails, and garden paths, this boutique bed and breakfast feels like a hidden retreat—perfect for smaller guest lists and personalized celebrations that value authenticity and ambiance.
Refined Comforts in a Natural Setting
Despite its rustic charm, Butterfly Hollow is thoughtfully equipped for effortless outdoor events. The venue features a cozy barn reception space, artfully maintained gardens for ceremonies, and well-appointed accommodations for the wedding party. Surrounded by Tennessee’s natural beauty, it provides a peaceful canvas that can be elevated with elegant rentals—such as bistro lighting, tented lounges, and floral-forward aisle decor—to create a cohesive and upscale atmosphere.
A Backdrop for Meaningful, Themed Celebrations
Butterfly Hollow’s organic appeal complements a variety of elevated wedding styles. From romantic garden elopements and rustic-chic gatherings to whimsical bohemian soirées, the setting can be transformed to match each couple’s vision. The surrounding woodlands and open fields invite creative styling with natural textures, muted palettes, and thoughtful details that speak to both simplicity and sophistication.
Celebrate in Botanical Grandeur at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
Tucked into the rolling hills of Nashville, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens offers a rare blend of historical elegance and botanical splendor—making it one of the city’s most coveted outdoor wedding destinations. With its museum-quality grounds and meticulously maintained landscapes, Cheekwood sets the stage for sophisticated events that celebrate both nature and artistry.
Distinctive Garden Spaces with Elevated Character
Cheekwood’s expansive estate features a collection of curated gardens, each offering a distinct ambiance for ceremonies and receptions. Whether exchanging vows in the romantic Wills Perennial Garden, gathering guests within the structured calm of the Japanese Garden, or hosting an al fresco dinner beside the seasonal blooms of the Herb Study Garden, couples will find no shortage of refined backdrops.
These distinct environments pair effortlessly with luxury event rentals—from clear-top tents and structured flooring to curated floral installations and architectural lighting—ensuring each celebration feels both elevated and grounded in nature’s beauty.
Elevated Dining Experiences for Outdoor Affairs
To match the venue’s aesthetic, Cheekwood provides flexible catering arrangements with a roster of preferred culinary partners and an experienced in-house team. Outdoor dining options range from garden terraces to tented lawns, giving couples the freedom to design an experience that reflects their taste. Whether it’s a candlelit plated dinner or a curated tasting menu beneath bistro lights, Cheekwood’s layout supports refined meal service and seamless guest flow.
Embrace Timeless Charm at Pleasant Hill Mansion
A graceful nod to Nashville’s storied past, Pleasant Hill Mansion offers a distinguished setting for outdoor weddings that evoke classic Southern sophistication. Set atop a quiet hill with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, the estate’s refined architecture and stately grounds create an atmosphere of understated luxury—ideal for couples seeking a historic venue with elevated appeal.
Outdoor Features That Capture Southern Grandeur
The mansion’s grounds offer an artful blend of structure and serenity. Couples can host ceremonies beneath the shade of century-old trees, gather guests in a manicured courtyard framed by sculpted greenery, or celebrate beneath the stars beside a charming gazebo. A reflective pond and the mansion’s columned facade add visual richness, perfect for photography and design-forward event layouts. The property’s spacious outdoor areas also pair seamlessly with luxury tenting, bespoke lighting, and curated lounge setups for a fully immersive celebration.
Trusted Vendor Partnerships to Bring Your Vision to Life
Pleasant Hill Mansion maintains a preferred network of vendors known for their craftsmanship, creativity, and familiarity with the estate’s setting. From elevated farm-to-table catering and native floral design to photographers who specialize in capturing architectural elegance and musicians who set the perfect tone, each vendor is carefully selected to align with the mansion’s timeless character.
Couples may choose from these trusted professionals or bring in their own, subject to venue approval. The estate’s coordination team offers hands-on support to ensure a cohesive event that honors both your style and the historic integrity of the property.
Conclusion
Nashville’s outdoor wedding venues offer couples diverse and stunning settings for memorable celebrations. From historic mansions and lush gardens to rustic barns and lakeside estates, these venues provide unique backdrops that capture the essence of Tennessee’s natural beauty. Each location offers distinctive features, amenities, and planning services to help couples create their perfect day, whether they desire an intimate gathering or a grand affair. By exploring both well-known and hidden gem venues, couples can find the ideal outdoor space that aligns with their vision, budget, and personal style, ensuring a truly unforgettable wedding experience in Music City.
