Serena & Benny // Brooklyn, NY

If there’s one place in New York City that can seamlessly transport you to a world of natural beauty and romance, it’s the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. As a wedding photographer, there are certain venues that ignite your creative spark the moment you step foot on the grounds. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of those rare gems. Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, this lush oasis is a stunning setting for a wedding, offering couples the perfect blend of urban sophistication and serene nature.

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is more than just a venue; it’s a dream canvas for photographers. With its lush greenery, seasonal blooms, and a variety of landscapes, every corner tells a story waiting to be captured. From the serene Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden to the iconic Cherry Esplanade, the garden boasts a diversity of settings that seamlessly blend nature with elegance. Keep scrolling to see beautiful moments from Serena and Benny’s September Brooklyn Botanic Garden wedding.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Wedding Portraits

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a photographer’s playground for capturing intricate details. The bride’s bouquet reflected the garden’s seasonal palette, with dahlias, roses, and eucalyptus in soft, romantic hues. During the couple’s portraits, we couldn’t resist incorporating the lush greenery and vibrant florals. As a photographer, my goal is always to preserve the essence of a couple’s day. The intimate first look took place under a canopy of green, where the couple shared a quiet, emotional moment before the festivities began.

September offers a perfect balance of pleasant weather and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal month for a garden wedding. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s expansive grounds give couples the best portrait locations surrounded by natural beauty.

Chinese Tea Ceremony

Before their wedding, Serena and Benny had a Chinese tea ceremony. The ceremony is a deeply symbolic and cherished tradition at weddings, embodying respect, gratitude, and the union of two families. During the ceremony, the couple kneels or bows before their parents and elders, offering them tea as a gesture of honor and appreciation for their love and guidance. In return, the elders bestow blessings, advice, and often red envelopes (hongbao) filled with gifts or money to symbolize prosperity and good fortune. The ceremony is not only a meaningful moment for the bride and groom but also an opportunity to strengthen familial bonds and celebrate the cultural heritage passed down through generations.

Sunset Ceremony at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden provides a variety of breathtaking ceremony backdrops, from the enchanting Cherry Esplanade to the tranquil gardens. Each space has its own unique charm, making it ideal for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations. Imagine exchanging vows beneath the shade of a weeping cherry tree or surrounded by seasonal blooms in the Rose Garden.

Serena and Benny’s ceremony was held on the lawn near the Palm House, where rows of chairs were set facing gorgeous trees and the sunset. The bride’s entrance was one of the most breathtaking moments. As she walked down the aisle, the sunlight filtered through the branches, casting a soft glow that felt almost ethereal.

The Palm House Reception at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Palm House, a glass-walled conservatory, hosted Serena & Benny’s reception, and it was nothing short of magical. As twilight fell, the room was illuminated by candles that mirrored the stars above. From a photography perspective, the Palm House offers unparalleled lighting opportunities. The glass structure allows ambient light to filter in beautifully, while the interior lighting adds a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their wedding palette of dusty pink, sage green, and gold was seamlessly woven into every element—from the stationery to the floral arrangements and table settings.

The reception unfolded in the Palm House, candid moments during toasts and the couple’s first dance were particularly striking. The glass walls reflected the shimmering lights, creating a dreamy, almost cinematic effect. Guests danced the night away, their laughter and joy adding life to every frame.

Photographing a wedding at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an experience like no other. It’s a reminder of why we do what we do—to capture the love, beauty, and fleeting moments that define a couple’s special day. If you’re a couple searching for a venue that combines natural beauty with timeless elegance, or a photographer looking to elevate your portfolio, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a place where dreams truly come to life.