The Atrium at Meadowlark Gardens is a hidden gem in the Northern Virginia wedding space. I've been blessed to document a number of weddings there over the years and every time I step into the gardens I feel like we've moved into another world.

As an adventure wedding photographer, I'm excited for any wedding that get's me into the outdoors on some level. But I get it, not everyone wants to climb a mountain on their wedding day, and maybe you want to invite all your friends and family. Meadowlark is the perfect option for a couple that values a venue that is accessible but wants to be constantly surrounded by natural beauty and too-many-to-count gorgeous photo opportunities.

The atrium of meadowlark Gardens — The glass enclosed interior of the Atrium At Meadowlark Gardens.

The Setting

The Atrium at Meadowlark Gardens, in Vienna, Virginia, is owned by NOVA Parks and is a glass enclosed, high ceiling venue with live plants and flowers throughout the interior, and a real flowing river that goes right through the main space. You won't find a venue like it anywhere nearby and it's the perfect option if you don't want to worry about decorating like crazy. Nature has done it for you! Outside the main Atrium there are many areas to explore, including an expansive lake, wooded trails, an Asian Bell Garden, and more.

Ceremony Spaces

First, you can choose to have your ceremony outside on the patio overlooking the gardens, which is perfect for middle or late afternoon weddings. No matter the season, there will be a beautiful tree line as a backdrop behind you, which is particularly stunning in the fall!

A wedding on the patio outside the Atrium at Meadowlark Gardens.

Pro-tip, if you can, try to schedule your ceremony for when the sun will be at or below the tree line, so as to avoid having sunlight shining directly into your face during the ceremony.

Secondly, whether it rains or you simply love the vibe, you can choose to have your ceremony inside the Atrium surrounded by lush florals and a stunning glass enclosure. This is a venue where it doesn't feel like a compromise to have your ceremony inside.

Whether inside or out, the Atrium can accommodate around 150 guests and even permits you to bring in pets for your ceremony!

A wedding at the Lake Caroline Pavilion at Meadowlark Gardens.

Third, you can elope at Meadowlark! Whether it's at the Korean Bell Garden or one of the three pavilions, Meadowlark has many options available for smaller, more intimate weddings. The most popular pavilion for smaller weddings, the Lake Caroline Pavilion, sits over the water at the end of a dock, offering a very unique perspective.

engagement session at Meadowlark Gardens

The Photos

One of the biggest draws for couples is the wide array of photography opportunities around Meadowlark. Scenes include dark, moody forest trails, expansive lakeside views, flower gardens, huge willow trees, and the multiple Korean garden installations. All of these change drastically season to season, with beautiful photography possible any time of the year.

The Cons

I believe in being fully transparent, and the only downside I have found is that they have in-house catering with an extra charge for an outside company to come it. However, in my experience in-house catering option is excellent, so most couples easily choose to go that direction.

The Verdict

If you love the outdoors and want to have a large or small event in the Northern Virginia area, it's worth it to consider having your wedding at The Atrium at Meadowlark!

Below are a few of my favorite images from a number of engagements and weddings at Meadowlark Gardens.