Outdoor weddings in Central Florida come with so many perks, and honestly, I never get tired of them. The sunshine, the variety of venues, and those gorgeous natural backdrops make it easy to see why couples love saying “I do” outside.
As an Orlando wedding photographer, I can tell you—these spots don’t just look amazing in photos, they also bring such a relaxed, fun vibe to the whole day. In this blog, I’m sharing why outdoor weddings work so well here, a few of my favorite celebrations I’ve photographed, and some practical tips to help with planning.
You’ll also find details on venues, costs, and what to expect, including weather, so you can feel confident and excited about choosing the right spot! If you are look for other venues that are not listed in this blog you can click here
TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR OUTDOOR WEDDING
Planning outdoor weddings in Central Florida is such a dream, but a few thoughtful touches can make it even more magical:
- Always have a backup plan for unexpected weather.
- Offer refreshing drinks or fans to keep guests cool.
- Use the natural beauty of the venue to guide your décor.
- Schedule photos during golden hour for the prettiest light.
- Keep bug spray or citronella candles handy for comfort.
Planning an outdoor wedding takes a bit of extra preparation, but it’s so worth it. I’d be glad to help you navigate both the photography side and the little details that make the whole day easier!
WHY CHOOSE AN OUTDOOR WEDDING IN CENTRAL FLORIDA?
- Central Florida has warm weather year-round, making wedding planning more flexible!
- Variety of natural venues available: beaches, national parks, gardens, and springs provide great photo backgrounds – love them all!
- Outdoor wedding venues in Florida offer more space and can accommodate different guest list sizes.
- Relaxed atmosphere with plenty of room for guests to move around.
MY FAVORITE OUTDOOR WEDDINGS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA AND ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS
Outdoor weddings in Central Florida hold such a special place in my heart. I’ve had a lot of fun capturing stories in truly magical spots, and I’d love to share a few of my favorites with you!
Leu Gardens, Orlando
Leu Gardens is one of the great outdoor wedding venues in Orlando, Florida spot for couples who want that green backdrop without having to drive far.
- Butterfly garden filled with vibrant plants
- Shaded paths that create natural framing
- A small museum that adds a unique backdrop
- Rose Garden is known for its calming, romantic atmosphere
If you want to know more, check out this romantic engagement of Lauren and Ben at Leu Gardens!
Bok Tower Gardens
What I love about Bok Tower is how the gardens feel like a little escape from Central Florida. The soaring tower adds such a distinct focal point, and you won’t find another setting like it nearby.
- Tucked-away nooks and sweeping garden views
- Options for both dramatic wide portraits and intimate candid shots
- Huge property, so choosing favorite spots ahead of time is helpful
- Distinct focal point: the soaring tower
If you want to see what a real engagement looks like here, check out this Bok Tower Gardens engagement session!
Kraft Azalea. Winter Park
Kraft Azalea Gardens has such a calm, hidden-away feel; it’s a gem for couples who want their session to feel private and relaxed, making it one of the most charming garden wedding venues in Florida.
- Towering cypress trees along the water create a stunning natural backdrop
- Greek-style columns add a polished, timeless touch
- Versatile location that never feels overdone in photos
- Parking is limited, so planning ahead is key
If you’re curious how it all comes together, I photographed an enchanting session here that you can explore in this Winter Park engagement story.
Hill House Clermont
The Hill House is a cozy venue with a simple layout that keeps things easy, from the ceremony to portraits and the reception, everything flows seamlessly in one place.
- Open outdoor areas to give couples freedom to style and decorate
- Seamless flow from ceremony to portraits to reception all in one place
- Best suited for smaller to mid-sized weddings
- Cozy venue with a simple, easy layout
If you’re curious how a wedding actually comes to life here, take a peek at this Hill House celebration I photographed for some inspiration!
The Pinery Events
The Pinery Events is such a hidden gem in Orlando, it almost feels like you’ve stepped out of Florida and into a West Coast forest.
- Towering pine trees create natural, romantic ceremonies under the open sky
- Outdoor dinners and receptions give a cozy, magical atmosphere
- Pavilion with open-air string lights transforms into the perfect dance floor
- Relaxed, scenic venue completely wrapped in nature
If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels relaxed, scenic, and completely wrapped in nature, The Pinery delivers it beautifully.
For a closer look at how a wedding day unfolds here, you can check out this beautiful wedding that I captured at the Pinery Events!
HIRING A PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR OUTDOOR WEDDING
As a wedding photographer, outdoor weddings in Central Florida are honestly my favorite shoots. The natural light is incredible, you’ve got endless gorgeous backdrops, and being outside just brings out those real, authentic moments that make the best photos.
Here’s the thing about outdoor weddings – they naturally create those unscripted moments that look amazing years later.
The laughter during your vows, quiet glances during golden hour, dancing under the stars. My job is catching all of that while you’re just living in the moment.
And Florida weather? If it rains, we roll with it and make it beautiful. I blend in with your family, keep the energy flowing, and capture the joy of your day in a way that feels completely natural and true to who you are.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
1.What’s the best time of year to plan an outdoor wedding in Central Florida?
March to May and late October to November are the most popular months because the weather is warm but not overly humid.
2. Do I need a permit to have an outdoor wedding in Central Florida?
It depends on your venue. Private venues handle permits for you, but if you’re considering a public park, garden, or beach, you’ll usually need a permit from the city or county. This is something your planner or photographer can help you confirm in advance.
3. What’s the biggest challenge with outdoor weddings in Florida?
The biggest challenge is the unpredictable weather, especially those sudden afternoon rain showers. Having a weather backup plan means you can still enjoy the beauty of an outdoor wedding without added stress.
4. What should couples keep in mind for outdoor wedding photos?
Lighting is everything in the outdoors. Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is the most flattering time for photos, while midday sun can be harsh. A professional wedding photographer will know how to adapt and find the best light at any time of day.
5. Do I really need a professional wedding photographer for my outdoor wedding?
Absolutely. Outdoor weddings offer stunning natural backdrops, but they also come with tricky lighting and sudden shifts in weather. A skilled Orlando wedding photographer has the experience and equipment to make sure your photos look timeless and beautiful, no matter the conditions.
Ready to plan your own outdoor wedding in Central Florida?
As an Orlando wedding photographer, I’d love to capture your day in a way that feels real, relaxed, and true to you. If you’re looking for someone who knows how to handle the light, the weather, and all those candid in-between moments, feel free to contact me!
