The Wadsworth Mansion, with its stunning grounds and timeless elegance, offers couples an incredible variety of ceremony locations. We have performed at the Mansion countless times and are always in awe of how every wedding there is still so unique.
Each ceremony space comes with its own unique ambiance, so the Wadsworth truly provides endless possibilities - you can't go wrong! If you’re reading this, chances are that you’re planning your wedding at the Wadsworth Mansion and I know you’re here to sneak a peek at how past Ariana Strings couples have personalized their weddings!
I'm Ariana, lead violinist and owner of Ariana Strings. I've performed for over 700 weddings since 2010 and have performed at the Wadsworth Mansion more times than I can count. Here, I'm sharing ten Wadsworth Mansion ceremony options, along with examples of weddings that have utilized each setting. I'm also including how our musicians have set up for each scenario, what to consider, and photos and videos.
The Tennis Pavilion & Rose Garden at The Wadsworth Mansion
Facing the Tennis Pavilion
This arrangement provides a stunning view of the tennis pavilion as the backdrop for your vows. With the lush rose garden framing the ceremony, it’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural charm. Many couples opt to decorate the columns, but even when left bare, it's regal.
Example: Shannon and Tory’s wedding beautifully showcased this setup, with guests seated amidst the blooming roses and the pavilion creating a romantic focal point.
Depending on the time of day and the season, our musicians may need to move to find shade, compared to what you see here. We've set up behind the guests, to the left, and even to the right.
We have performed here in every configuration: Solo violin, string duet, string trio, and string quartet. Ultimately, the intimacy of the space is really beautiful, so you can go with any size acoustic ensemble. If you plan on having cocktail hour here, as well, amplifying the instruments is a really nice option.
Tip: Make sure to wear bug spray. Though it doesn't seem it, it's a pretty wooded area and I'll never forget the time a little fly decided to fly into my ear while I was performing as our bride walked down the aisle. Funny thing is that the photographer caught that in a photo (you'll see it in the gallery below), it just looks like I'm shrugging!
Facing the Roses (Backs to the Mansion)
For couples who want their guests to be immersed in the beauty of the garden, this layout places the roses as the ceremony’s centerpiece.
Example: Maryelizabeth and Chris opted for this arrangement for their early June wedding and it was incredible. The roses were in full bloom anad created a naturally gorgeous backdrop. Photo credit: Joanna Fisher Photography.
We performed You Are My Sunshine, as a tribute to her late father, for Maryelizabeth's walk down the aisle.
Facing the Roses (Facing the Mansion)
This setup is not often done, but it's really sweet: The ceremony altar is framed by the pine trees and mansion in the background.
Alison and Chris chose this arrangement for their mini ceremony in 2020, creating a picturesque view for both their guests and their photos.
Photo credit: Stop Go Love
All About The Great Lawn at The Wadsworth Mansion
Facing the The Great Lawn
The most popular option, by far, the expansive great lawn offers an open-air setting with breathtaking views of the Mansion’s sprawling grounds. Facing the back lawn allows for an elegant, natural backdrop.
Most couples arrange for a water station (much needed, in Summer) and have lounge furniture and decor on the patio for guests to enjoy before walking down to the ceremony chairs. Getting married in the Fall? Ask your caterer about a hot cider station.
Example: Jessica and Nick’s wedding, styled by Wildflower Events, showcased this setup with its vast, picturesque scenery. Photo credit: Jennifer Nichole Photography with Wildflower Events.
Things to consider:
Depending on the time of day, this space may be in full sun or half-shaded. In the height of Summer, we've seen guests faint from being in the direct sun for even a short ceremony. Other times, I've seen guests get up in the middle of the ceremony to stand in the shade (and some brought their chairs with them!)
Idea for Summer events: One of our couples graciously set up patio umbrellas throughout the seating to shade their guests and it was a big hit.
There is a school a ways away and, on rare occasions, you can hear a sports game in the distance. It's usually wrapped up well before a ceremony starts, but I recommend making sure your officiant has a microphone to help keep the focus nearby.
We usually set up in the shade of the trees as seen here. You can see the sunlight through the trees is a bit patchy, but we found a fully shaded spot to safely perform. I've performed in this spot as a soloist (both acoustic violin and electric violin), as a violin and cello duet, violin and guitar duet, string trio, string quartet, and with drums. Depending on the vibe you'd like (and whether or not you're having us stay on for cocktail hour), acoustic or amplified will work beautifully here.
From the Patio, Facing the Great Lawn
For a different perspective, couples can choose to have their ceremony on the patio facing away from the Mansion. This setup highlights the surrounding greenery and natural beauty.
Annie and Steven’s wedding utilized this unique arrangement, creating an inviting atmosphere for their guests. We performed as an amplified string trio, which was a lifesaver since it was such a windy day.
Things to consider:
Guests really appreciate that there isn't such a long walk across the grass, which is helpful for guests wearing high heels and especially for those who use mobility aids. As mentioned before, depending on the time of day, this spot can have little shade. This is a great option for that "borderline" weather (Will it rain, or won't it?), so guests can dash inside if you're willing to risk it. If you plan to utilize this space for your reception, your DJ and bar will likely be set up on either side already.
Photo credit: Alicia Ann Photographers
Below are two videos from this very wedding. Video credit Barnberry Productions (Wildest Dreams).
From The Patio, Facing the Building
This setup utilizes the Mansion’s patio as a ceremony site, with its stately facade serving as an impressive backdrop. Just like in #5, being located on the patio is very convenience.
Example: During a violin and guitar duet wedding ceremony, this layout allowed the architecture to take center stage while still providing an intimate setting.
Credit: Samantha Melanson Photography
The Exedrae at The Wadsworth Mansion
The Exedrae is a hidden gem that offers a more secluded, garden-style setting for ceremonies. I've only seen two wedding ceremonies like this and they were stunning. Surrounded by nature, it’s perfect for couples seeking a private, intimate space.
When the exedrae garden is in full bloom like this, it is so so beautiful. Florals lining the aisle and supplemental pedestals are just the icing on the cake.
Be aware that it is a long walk - but it is absolutely stunning. Consider your guests mobility needs and requirements before selecting this spot. There are parking spaces nearby, so planning in advance will really help your guests enjoy this beautiful spot.
Depending on the time of day, shade in this area can be limited. You may want to consider bringing umbrellas or planning your ceremony for just before golden hour, for comfort in those hot Summer months.
Example: Terry-Ann and Mike’s wedding took advantage of this tranquil spot, creating a magical atmosphere for their vows.
Photo credit: Karina Mekel Photograhy.
Wedding Ceremony in Front of the Wadsworth Mansion
In Front of the Mansion
This style of ceremony just became popular in the last 3 years and has quickly become a personal favorite. Placing the ceremony directly in front of the Mansion combines the grandeur of its facade with the intimacy of its entrance. This setup is ideal for couples looking for a dramatic and elegant statement.
Things to consider: When guests arrive, it keeps them from entering the reception space early (Well, it doesn't encourage them to go into the building.) However, if you plan to have photos in front of the mansion before the cermeony, you'll need to work closely with your photographer and planner to ensure it's buit into your timeline - otherwise, guests could spot you too soon!
Shade-wise, our musicians have a lot of options. We've set up underneath the pillars (violin/guitar duet), to the right of the guests, left of the guests, and behind the guests. Depending on the time of day, there can be plenty of shade, which is always appreciated during the height of Summer.
Example: Veronica and Brian chose this arrangement, allowing the Mansion itself to become part of their ceremony story.
Photo credit: Melissa Lewis Photography
Indoor Weddings at The Wadsworth Mansion
One of the reasons that I love and highly recommend the Wadsworth Mansion is because their back-up spaces for inclement weather are so beautiful.
9. The East Ballrooms
The East Ballroom provides an elegant indoor option for ceremonies. With its high ceilings and classic decor, it’s perfect for couples who want to exchange vows in a sophisticated setting.
Considerations for setup:
We have found that, with a lot of guests, it's best to have a smaller ensemble like a duet or trio. The full quartet can be a little cramped behind the chairs, which poses a safety issue as guests and vendors (like your photographer) try to sneak past to get to their seats.
10. The West Ballroom
The West Ballroom offers a slightly more intimate indoor setting. Its refined ambiance makes it an excellent choice for ceremonies year round. One of the many reasons that we love the Wadsworth Mansion is because this ballroom is often available as a backup in case of inclement weather. It's beautiful and a real lifesaver.
In Hannah and Pris' wedding, our string quartet set up in the far corner while the guests faced the mantel. It was perfection.
Photo credit: Alicia Ann Photographers
Each of these options provides a distinct and breathtaking experience for couples and their guests. We're so grateful to have performed in each of these incredible spaces many times and really understand the versatility of the space and how our musicians fit in. Whether you envision a ceremony steeped in nature or accented by architectural elegance, the Wadsworth Mansion has something to suit every couple’s dream.
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