Planning an outdoor wedding in North Texas takes more than a pretty backdrop. You need a space that works with the weather, keeps your guests comfortable, and gives you enough flexibility to build the day you actually want. At Dallas Palms, we have watched hundreds of couples navigate exactly that process, and we want to share what works.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Space for Your Vision
Every garden wedding starts with a space decision, and that choice shapes everything else. Our three garden spaces at Dallas Palms each have a distinct feel, so the right fit depends on your guest count, your aesthetic, and how you want the day to flow.
The Bel Air Garden for Larger Celebrations
If you are expecting 250 to 300 guests for your ceremony, the Bel Air Garden gives you the room to breathe. At roughly 10,000 square feet, it has an upper ceremony space with an arbor and a water feature, plus a lower level with turf, a waterfall, and a lounge and fire pit area. The combination makes it easy to move guests through different zones as the evening progresses, from ceremony to cocktails, without the crowd feeling compressed.
The Melrose Garden for Intimate String Light Settings
The Melrose Garden holds up to 160 guests and is anchored by two pergolas wrapped in string lights. The light overhead creates a warm, enclosed feeling that works especially well for evening ceremonies. If you want that soft golden glow in every photo, this garden delivers it naturally without extra equipment.
The Malibu Garden for Smaller, Oasis Style Ceremonies
For couples with a guest list closer to 100, the Malibu Garden offers an oasis setting with a ceremony arch, a water feature, and a string light ceiling overhead. It feels more intimate than the larger spaces, which suits couples who want their guests close and the atmosphere personal.
Pairing Your Garden with a Ballroom
One decision many couples overlook is whether to pair the garden with an indoor ballroom. At Dallas Palms, gardens can be booked alongside their corresponding ballrooms or separately, depending on your plan. A paired booking means your guests can move from an outdoor ceremony into a climate-controlled reception without traveling far. The Melrose Ballroom, for example, has a central staircase and opens directly to the covered patio and garden, so the transition feels natural rather than logistical.
Understanding What Is Included
Our venue bookings include bridal and groom suites with two hours of access before the event, a one-hour rehearsal scheduled a day or two in advance, linens in black, ivory, or white, table setup, and one room attendant. Uplighting and ambiance lighting are included with room rental, which matters for an outdoor ceremony where the light shifts as the sun sets.
On the catering side, Dallas Palms has an in-house kitchen with full menu options, including vegetarian, vegan, and dietary accommodations. We also have an open vendor policy, so outside catering is allowed. Clients can bring their own alcohol, and Dallas Palms will handle the bartending and security.
Planning the Day of Flow
The most successful garden weddings we host follow a clear timeline. Ceremony in the garden, cocktail hour in a transition space or on the covered patio, then dinner and dancing inside. Having that movement built in keeps energy high and gives guests a reason to explore the space. We work with you during your planning consultation to map that flow based on your guest count and the specific spaces you book.
Parking and Access
With roughly 300 free parking spots on site and valet available upon request, guest logistics are straightforward. That removes one of the most common stress points for outdoor events in the DFW area.
Conclusion
If you are planning an outdoor garden wedding in Carrollton, TX, we would love to walk you through the spaces in person. Contact us at (972) 416-1416, email dallaspalms@gmail.com, or fill out our pricing guide request at dallaspalmsvenue.com to get started.
FAQs
Can I book just a garden without a ballroom?
Yes. Gardens at Dallas Palms can be booked on their own or paired with their corresponding ballroom, depending on your event needs.
Is a rehearsal included with my booking?
Yes. All ballroom packages include a one-hour rehearsal scheduled a day or two before your event.
Can we bring our own caterer or alcohol?
Dallas Palms has an open vendor policy and allows outside catering. Clients may also provide their own alcohol. Dallas Palms supplies the bartender and security.
Are there payment plan options?
Yes. Interest-free payment plans are available. Contact the team directly to discuss your options.
