You've already shared a thousand moments.
Now to take that one photograph that summarizes your relationship better than a thousand words ever could. Wait until the Botanical Garden's gates have closed to the public and capture your romance through a lens that lets in the Garden's late afternoon light. A sitting fee of $150 gives you, your photographer and an attendant two hours to explore the Garden, creating the perfect photograph to begin a lifetime. Private portraits are only available after regular visitor hours.
Slideshow photos credit: Judy Kay Bryan
Celebrate your bridal party and out-of-town guests.
Riverbanks weddings have become a Columbia tradition since 1995, when our Botanical Garden opened to the public. Rehearsal dinners at Riverbanks, however, have quickly become a non-traditional favorite for brides, no matter what the time of year. Celebrate your bridal party and out-of-town guests, not to mention the next day's vows, with an elegant dinner catered by Riverbanks' executive chef. A variety of settings throughout Riverbanks Zoo and Garden let you decide the size and scope of your rehearsal party.
Call 803.978.1123 for rehearsal dinner location pricing. Discounts are offered to brides who have both their rehearsal parties and wedding parties at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
Menu Options
Venue Options
The Aquarium Reptile Complex in Riverbanks Zoo's Palmetto Plaza
Twinkling lights may lead your guests to Riverbanks' Aquarium, but once inside it's the starfish and hundreds of tropical fish that will light up your guests' night. A reception of up to 250 or a seated dinner of up to 75.
The Magnolia Room in Riverbanks Botanical Garden
French doors open up to a breathtaking view of bricked terraces, cascading water and Riverbanks' formal walled garden. A reception of up to 300 or a seated dinner of up to 100.
Ndoki Lodge in Riverbanks Zoo's African Forest
Enjoy the sumptuous elegance that's typical of Riverbanks' special events but with a fun twist - the Lodge's large glass windows look out over Riverbanks' elephant exhibit and rich forest foliage. A reception of up to 350 or a seated dinner of up to 200.
The picture perfect place to say “I do.”
Just as surely as some brides envision getting married in the church they grew up attending, others picture saying their vows under a beautiful blue sky. Sometimes the most sacred wedding spots can be the ones you find in nature. Riverbanks Botanical Garden offers the picture perfect place to say “I do,” overlooking elegant fountains and lush greenery and creating an unforgettable memory of your special day. Ceremonies are included in the cost of a Friday, Saturday or Sunday evening wedding reception; however, a Friday night ceremony rehearsal must be scheduled separately.
Slideshow photos credit: Judy Kay Bryan
Your wedding reception really is the ultimate party.
Never before and never again will you have so many friends and family together to celebrate something so extraordinary. As you prepare for your big day, deciding on a reception at Riverbanks is one of the simplest choices you'll make. The beauty of Riverbanks Botanical Garden speaks for itself, and the cuisine of Riverbanks' executive chef makes the decision even easier. Our staff works closely with you from the moment you say "yes" to long after you've said "I do."
Slideshow photos credit: Judy Kay Bryan
Menu Options
Venue Options
The Magnolia Room in Riverbanks Botanical Garden
French doors open up to a breathtaking view of bricked terraces, cascading water and Riverbanks' formal walled garden. Room can accommodate a reception of up to 300 or a seated dinner of up to 100. Facility rental fee is $1,500.
Includes extras like a personal, covered tram ride for $100.00 to transport your guests from the Botanical Garden's entrance to the front of the Visitors Center. Schedule a Friday night rehearsal for half price ($750.00 rental fee) and we'll waive the sitting fee for an engagement or bridal portrait.
