Dreamy Outdoor Seattle Weddings with a Backup Plan

When it comes to outdoor weddings in Seattle, everyone wants the quintessential PNW vibe. Think towering evergreens, majestic mountain views, and water so close you can smell the salt in the air. You want it to feel like a magical forest, right out of Twilight (minus the sparkly vampires, unless that’s your thing). 

But — shocker — it’s Seattle. You can have the dreamist forest wedding planned, but there’s a damn good chance the weather will flip you off and dump rain on your perfect day. So, how do you nail that epic outdoor wedding without risking a soggy, mascara-running disaster? You plan like a boss — and we’re here to help. (Seriously, have you seen our website? It’s basically a treasure trove of wedding wisdom.) 

Here are some of our favorite Seattle venues that bring major aesthetic and peace of mind. 

Photo © Miranda Florer

Willows Lodge 

If your vibe is a garden wedding that’s both elegant and outdoorsy, Willows Lodge is the move. The gardens are next-level gorgeous, and if the sun decides to make an appearance, you can host your whole day outside. Plus, since it’s a lodge, you and your VIPs can crash on-site. No need to worry about dragging tipsy relatives home after one too many celebratory drinks. 

Plan B

If the weather goes sideways, you’re covered (literally.) There is a gorgeous ballroom adjacent to the outdoor space, so you can move the party inside without sacrificing vibes. Added bonus — the food here? Top notch. 

Parties on the Terrace 

Want that backyard wedding aesthetic without realizing your actual backyard is way too small and lacks old-growth trees? Enter Parties on the Terrace. It’s like your dream backyard wedding on steroids — tons of terraces, lush greenery, and a big ol’ lawn perfect for mingling and merriment. Plus, it’s got fancy touches like wired sound systems, a gas firepit, and air-conditioned prep suites — no sweaty pre-wedding panic here.  

Plan B

If Seattle’s feeling moody, there’s a cozy indoor space right next to the lawn and a covered patio with heaters. Plus, they only host one wedding per weekend, so no rushed vibes. Win-win. 

Twin Willow Gardens 

Are you hoping for a garden party that feels like you just stumbled into an enchanted glade? Twin Willow Gardens delivers. The ceremony area is tucked into a grove of trees, and the permanent reception tent keeps things practical while blending seamlessly into the natural landscape. Plus, wooden benches for the ceremony? Chef’s kiss. 

Plan B 

Umbrellas for light rain, the tent for anything heavier. And if dancing outside isn’t in the cards, the indoor dessert space becomes a built-in dance floor! Pretty and practical.

Trinity Tree Farm

Think Hallmark movie vibes — but in real life. This working Christmas tree farm gives you a ceremony lawn surrounded by towering evergreens, with a rustic lodge that feels straight out of a cozy winter wedding fantasy. Plus, take a stroll through the trees for those moody, magical photos. 

Plan B

If rain crashes the party, the ceremony moves indoors to the lodge. The partially covered patio and adjacent main house mean cocktail hour can still happen outside if the weather is just drizzly or fully indoors if it’s pouring. 

The Lodge at St. Edward State Park 

If you want to feel like you’re getting married smack in the middle of nature without sacrificing comfort, this is your venue. Nestled in a state park, the lodge offers both history and scenery in one. The ceremony grotto is surrounded by trees, and you can host your reception on the lawn or patio while keeping the lodge itself as a cozy option. 

Plan B

If Mother Nature decides to throw a tantrum, the ballroom is ready to save the day. Plus, the bar space next door is perfect for cocktails. 

Seattle Wedding Wisdom: Have a Backup Plan 

Listen, we’re not saying you should expect rain on your wedding day, but come on. It’s Seattle. Be smart. Reserve the tent. Pick a venue with flexible indoor options. Stock up on those clear umbrellas. With the right planning (ahem — and the right planner, like Aisle Less Traveled) your PNW wedding can still be that epic outdoor dream — even if the weather decides to be a jerk.

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On the podcast

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6 Things to do Before You Book a Wedding Venue

Cindy Savage, owner of Aisle Less Traveled, a wedding planning company in Seattle

Cindy Savage | Aisle Less Traveled

Cindy Savage is the queer, fat, feminist wedding planner behind Aisle Less Traveled and the co-creator/co-host of the Super Gay Wedding podcast. When she’s not busy planning unique and creative weddings for the absolute best couples around, she can usually be found wearing stretchy pants with her nose in a book or a craft project in her hands. She currently lives in Seattle with her partner and an assortment of small houseplants.

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Nick & Franklin

Enchanted Fall Forest Wedding at Trinity Tree Farm

Vendor Team

Wedding Planning & Event Design: Aisle Less Traveled Wedding Venue: Trinity Tree Farm • Photographer: Jamie Buckley Photography DJ: Puget Sounds – DJ Kelli Florals: Flora D’Amore • Catering: The Tall Chef Farm Tables: Seattle Farm Tables Cake: Lydia’s Cakes & Confections Stationery: Minted Suits: Indochino Transportation: A&A Limousine Hotel Blocks: JC Room Blocks

Jackie & Tracy

An Epic Dance Party Hosted by a Drag Queen - The Hall at Fauntleroy Wedding

Vendor Team

Wedding Planning: Aisle Less Traveled Wedding Venue: The Hall at Fauntleroy Photographer: Jay Eads DJ: DJ Dark Wiley MC/Drag Performer: Betty Wetter Photo Booth: Hello There You Florals: Odd Flowers Lighting: Crimson Haze Event Lighting • Catering: Tuxedos & Tennis Shoes • Dessert: The Sugah Shack • Hair & Makeup: Lana Eisenbarth • Stationery: Minted • Jackie’s Dress: Sarah Seven Tracey’s Suit: Nordstrom, Indochino • Tracey’s Shoes: Al’s Attire

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Sid & Ren

Capes, Swords, and Magical Woodland Vibes at Twin Willow Gardens

Vendor Team

Wedding Planning & Officiant: Aisle Less Traveled Wedding Venue: Twin Willow Gardens • Photographer: Rove Coast Photography • DJ: Orion Entertainment • Florals: Twisted Bramble • Farm Tables: Seattle Farm Tables • Catering: Shooby Doo • Cake: Simply Sweet • Transportation: A&A Limousine • Swords: Jesse Belsky StageSwords • Adventurer Outfits: Celtic Fusion • Shoes: American Duchess • Accessories: Lykos Leather, Dark Age Leathers • Sid’s Jewelry: Balbaox Ren’s Jewelry: Joo Jewel, Baleen Invitations: The Knot Signs: Niki Press Designs Woodland Animal Table Numbers: Studio In Budapest

Steph & Lauren

Warm and Earthy Fall Wedding at Willows Lodge

Vendor Team

Wedding Planning & Event Design: Aisle Less Traveled Wedding Venue & Catering: Willows Lodge • Photographer & Videographer: Miranda Florer • DJ: Puget Sounds – DJ Kelli Florals: Flora D’Amore • Lighting: Glow Lighting • Hair & Makeup: Blush Strokes Beauty • Gelato Cart: Nutty Squirrel • Officiant: Pastor Ellie • National Park Welcome Sign: Timber and Stain • National Park Table Signs: Victor Wood Forge • Steph’s Wedding Dress: Anthropologie • Lauren’s Wedding Dress: Maggie Sottero from I Do Bridal • Steph’s Shoes: Nordstrom Rack • Lauren’s Shoes: Aldo • Hotel Blocks: JC Room Blocks

Juliana & Nicole

Colorful Woodland Wedding at The Lodge at St. Edward State Park

Vendor Team

Wedding Planning & Event Design: Aisle Less Traveled Wedding Venue & Catering: The Lodge at St. Edward State Park • Photographer: Amanda Summerlin • Videographer: Shutter & Sound • DJ & Photo Booth: Orion Entertainment • Florals: Floravore • Lighting: Glow Lighting • Rentals: Wander Event Rentals • Cakes: Askatu Bakery • Hair: Sanseveria • Makeup: Blush & Braids Beauty Bar • Hotel Room Blocks: JC Room Blocks

Andy & Victor

Studio 54 meets The Great Gatsby at Clearwater Resort Wedding

Vendor Team

Wedding Planning & Event Design: Aisle Less Traveled Wedding Venue & Catering: Suquamish Clearwater Resort & Casino Photographer: Amanda Summerlin DJ: Jess the Ripper Florals: Flora D’Amore Rentals: CORT Party Rentals Draping: Quest Events Lighting: Lovecraft Events Stationery: Minted Hair & Makeup: Blush Strokes Beauty Andy’s Tux: Viktor Luna Victor’s Tux: Sharpe Suiting Groom’s Shirts: Indochino Bow Ties: FloralTrip Cuff Links: Ox & Bull Trading Co Reception Jumpsuits: Christian Siriano Andy’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin Victor’s Shoes: To Boot New York Transportation: A&A Limousine Hotel Blocks: JC Room Blocks