Wedding Planning Tips

Getting married at Founders Grove? You’re in for something truly special. This garden venue is not just a stunning setting—it’s a private estate that blends farmhouse-inspired charm with natural beauty, making it the perfect boutique space for your big day. But with a unique location like this, planning ahead is key to making your wedding as seamless as it is unforgettable. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Farmhouse table with a curated brunch display in the farmhouse of Founder's Grove.

Embrace the Natural Beauty

The gardens provide a stunning backdrop that requires minimal decoration. Let the natural beauty of Founders Grove take center stage by incorporating simple and elegant decor, such as greenery, wood accents, and soft lighting like string lights or lanterns.

Save your date ASAP

Founders Grove is a sought-after spot, so don’t wait to book! Secure your date early and map out a planning timeline to stay on top of things. A wedding planning app or a simple spreadsheet can help keep track of vendors, budgets, and deadlines.

2) Choose your Caterer, especially in peak season you will want to reserve the date with your caterer as soon as possible! 

3) Send Save the dates! 

4) Book your photograph and Videography, check out our list of preferred vendors for ideas!  

5) Dress shopping, so you allow time for ordering and fittings 

6)Style: Choose your colors, event style or theme! 

7) Choose your Founders Grove Bar Package – Choose a signature drink or After dinner cocktail schedule a call us if you have questions! 

8) Tastings and menu’s- Our catering partners include a wedding cake in your package, ask them for more details! 

9) SEND Invitations with directions, hotel info for out of town guests

10) Ceremony Officiant, rings, and traditions. We do except applications for Pet visits before and during the ceremony. 

11) Music, entertainment- Choose from our vendors or bring your own insured vendor! 

12) Signage, Seating Chart or Escort Cards.. Finishing details 

13) Confirm your guest count and floor plan 

 

 

Choose Vendors who can support your plans 

Choose wedding vendors who not only support you, but truly align with your vision, values, and vibe. At Founders Grove, we offer an extensive preferred vendor list—carefully curated to help bring your dream event to life with ease and confidence.

 

Timing is Everything

To make the most of your day, plan your timeline strategically. Start with a relaxed morning in the bridal suite, hair and make up should be hired to fit into the schedule and have you ceremony ready! 

Keep Guests in the Loop

Create a wedding email and help your guests come prepared! Whether it’s walking outside or dressing for the season, include venue details on your wedding website or invitations so everyone knows what to expect. Pro tip: recommend comfortable shoes for that effortless garden-party vibe.

Flat lay of a wedding invitation and wedding rings.

Go Green with Your Wedding

A nature-filled boutique venue like Founders Grove deserves a touch of sustainability. Use biodegradable serveware, locally sourced flowers, and farm-to-table catering to keep things eco-friendly while still being effortlessly chic.

 

Make It Personal

With its farmhouse-inspired charm, Founders Grove is the perfect canvas for a wedding that feels like you. Write your own vows, incorporate meaningful traditions, or design a ceremony layout that reflects your love story.

 

Set the Mood with Lighting

As the sun sets, lighting transforms the space. Think fairy lights wrapped around trees, glowing candles on tables, and soft uplighting to highlight the best features of the venue. The result? Pure magic.

 

Have a Backup Plan (Just in Case!)

No one wants to think about rain on their wedding day, but having a backup plan is a must. Work with your coordinator to plan for unexpected weather so you can relax and enjoy the moment, no matter what.

 

Use the Venue’s Features to Your Advantage

From the cozy bridal suite to the beautifully restored event spaces, Founders Grove has plenty to offer. Take full advantage of everything—whether it’s scenic photo spots, flexible layouts, or dreamy outdoor spaces.

Table with two candles, two cocktails and small bouquet of flowers.

Consider a Day-Of Coordinator

Even if you’re a DIY wedding pro, having a day-of coordinator will save you stress. They’ll handle logistics, direct vendors, and keep everything on schedule while you focus on celebrating.

 

Capture Every Moment

With such a unique location, your wedding photos will be breathtaking. Hire a photographer who knows how to capture natural light and all those dreamy garden details so your memories last a lifetime.

 

Enjoy the Ride

At the end of the day, this is your wedding. Founders Grove is a once-in-a-lifetime private estate venue, and your big day should be just as unique and magical as your love story. Take a deep breath, soak it all in, and enjoy every second.

Smokehouse in the gardens of Founder's Grove, a unique wedding and event space located in South Jersey.

With these tips, you’re set for an unforgettable wedding at Founders Grove—one that’s timeless, breathtaking, and effortlessly beautiful. Happy planning!

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