When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings
Why Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings is a breathtaking wedding venue located in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. This venue uniquely combines the elegance of a historic Spanish Colonial Revival manor built in 1929 with the beauty of lush, meticulously maintained gardens featuring native and tropical flora. With views of South Mountain and the Guadalupe Range enhancing its natural scenery, the venue offers a serene and picturesque setting for weddings and special events. It accommodates up to 225 guests and provides multiple ceremony and reception spaces, both indoors with vintage décor and outdoors under majestic trees and ornate iron pergolas. The estate exudes charm with its original period features such as hand-stamped tiles, elegant chandeliers, stone staircases, and a grand balcony overlooking the gardens. Managed by the expert team at Wedgewood Weddings, the venue offers a streamlined and stress-free planning experience with customizable packages and extensive vendor options, including catering, florals, music, and more. Whether couples desire an outdoor ceremony in the shaded lawn or an indoor reception in the elegant pavilion, Secret Garden provides versatile options to match any wedding style or budget. This exceptional venue is ideal for those seeking a romantic, refined, and memorable location to celebrate with friends and family.
Here's what people think of Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings
As of recent, Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings holds a 4.7-star rating based on 288 reviews.
Reviews for Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings consistently praise its stunning aesthetics and professional service. Many guests highlight the venue's versatility and beauty, from the shaded ceremony lawns beneath towering trees to charming hidden garden nooks perfect for photos. Positive reviews especially mention the seamless planning facilitated by Wedgewood Weddings, noting the helpfulness and professionalism of the staff. Couples appreciate the all-inclusive packages that cover catering, decorations, and rentals, often commenting on the delicious food and attention to detail. Some reviewers specifically noted the venue's ability to accommodate different weather conditions by offering both indoor and outdoor spaces, which enhances guest comfort. On the other hand, a few critiques touch on the venue's cost, which some found somewhat high, and occasional challenges with timing or coordination during the event. A small number of guests mentioned the parking availability and capacity as another minor downside. Overall, the reviews conclude that Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings delivers a high-quality, picturesque wedding experience with excellent customer support, making it a popular choice for couples looking for a combination of historic charm and natural beauty in Phoenix.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Abby Clark
Easiest planning process, most beautiful venue, and the best vendors & staff!!! Secret Garden was a bit higher than our original budget, but it was 100% worth every penny. We planned our wedding from out of state, and actually booked our date without even seeing the venue! But it was a breeze working with the SG team; we never felt overwhelmed especially with the planning binder they mailed us. All planning details, vendors, payments, zoom calls, EVERYTHING was so easy and organized. There were moments where we forgot we had a wedding coming up because Secret Garden staff took all the stress off us. Rehearsal was a breeze, then our wedding day was so beautiful and ran so smoothly!! The staff (especially our day-of coordinator Stephanie) made sure we all had everything we needed and more- they even surprised us with a framed photo of me and my new hubby on our sweetheart table!!! They must have secretly snapped a pic while we were walking down the aisle and quickly printed. The little details like that really made our day perfect. The house & outdoor venue beauty speak for themself, and our guests raved to us about the ceremony space, delicious food & dinner under the stars as well as loving the indoor-outdoor setting. I wish I could give 10000/5 stars THANK YOU SECRET GARDEN
Julia Nelson
We had our wedding here in May, and it was PERFECT! From start to finish, the planning team was friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Maddison was our coordinator and made sure that every detail was accounted for. We used the space to host our wedding reception. We had the cocktail hour and dinner outside, and dancing and dessert in the indoor ballroom. Both spaces are beautiful! The ability to use both spaces was helpful, especially given the uncertainty of the AZ heat. Shoutout to the bartenders- our guests raved about the drinks and how quickly the line moved. The DJ (contracted through the venue) was top-tier! Food was phenomenal. We had an incredible experience and could not recommend Secret Garden enough!
Cassie Anderson
They made wedding planning a breeze... and it was the most affordable place around! You seriously cannot find a better deal in wedding world than at the Secret Garden. Our wedding day was beautiful, the planning process was straightforward, and the planning team was very responsive and helpful. I liked the customizable options and that all the information was in one place. As a type B person when it comes to party planning, I am very happy we chose Wedgewood!
Kassidy King
I don’t even know where to begin with the amazing things I have to say about the Secret Garden Wedgewood Weddings team. The whole planning process working with all the ladies on the sales/planning team was always so easy and enjoyable. Then, when we were assigned Sydney as our coordinator and had our final planning meeting, she listened to me, reassured me and took note of every detail I wanted. Our day went off without a hitch all because of her. Sydney was SO sweet, checked in on me, my husband and both of our parents all throughout the night. I was able to enjoy my whole wedding day without an ounce of stress knowing that Sydney would execute my vision perfectly, and that is exactly what she did without missing a single detail. Once the night was turned over to Karen as the banquet captain, she did an amazing job checking in on us and getting my husband and I and our families all set to go at the end of the night. All around could not have had a better experience or a more amazing wedding than we had with the Secret Garden Wedgewood team!!
Makenzie Saunders
Absolutely LOVE the team at The Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings!!! They communicated so well leading up to the day of the wedding, they made adjustments at our request, and were so lovely to be around! The prices are very reasonable for what is included, they provide a military discount and we received a “summer special” which help cut costs even more. The food at the venue is FANTASTIC, the venue itself is simply stunning (and well maintained). We opted for dinning under the stars and it was perfect. Could not be more thankful for this team making our day so perfect. Will 1000% recommend them whenever I get the chance!!!
How to reach Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings
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Why Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings with your friends? This venue offers a uniquely enchanting atmosphere perfect for celebrating with loved ones, blending historic elegance with natural beauty to create a truly memorable experience. Nestled in South Phoenix, Secret Garden is an extravagant estate built in 1929 with exquisite Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, enhanced by mature mesquite and carob trees, vibrant flora, and serene shaded lawns. Friends can enjoy a spacious and private setting where towering trees and hidden garden nooks invite exploration and picturesque moments. The seamless mix of indoors and outdoors allows groups to celebrate comfortably regardless of weather while taking in stunning views of South Mountain and the Guadalupe Range. With a high 4.7-star rating from hundreds of reviews, this venue is clearly renowned for exceptional service and ambiance. Whether your group is hosting a reunion, birthday, or casual gathering, the blend of vintage charm, extensive gardens, and attentive staff guarantee a relaxed yet luxurious escape where everyone can connect and create lasting memories.
What activities can you expect at Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings for a group meetup? The venue’s sprawling gardens and historic manor provide an array of engaging experiences suited to groups of various sizes. You can stroll along shaded garden paths lined with native and tropical plants, discovering intimate outdoor corners perfect for photos or quiet chats. The Old-World iron pergola and carved stone altar create dramatic focal points ideal for group photos or small ceremonies. Indoors, the grand manor features elegant spaces such as a grand hall with chic chandeliers, ornate staircases, and a vintage fireplace to gather by. There’s even a cozy pavilion with cathedral ceilings and French doors opening to the garden courtyard, which has a fireplace and plush furnishings for relaxed conversation or dancing. For more active groups, the large lawn area is perfect for games or even an impromptu dance party under the open sky. Plus, the venue offers full event coordination, catering, and bar services so your group can focus on celebrating rather than logistics.
Why is Secret Garden so ideal for a group meetup? First, its capacity comfortably accommodates up to 225 seated guests or 250 for receptions, making it perfect for even large gatherings without feeling crowded. The variety of settings—from outdoor lawns and shaded nooks to elegant indoor rooms—means groups can tailor their event to any vibe, whether it’s a formal dinner, casual mingling, or a mixture of both. The historic architecture, original period details, and manicured gardens create a photographic backdrop that elevates every moment and encourages spontaneous memories. Accessibility is thoughtfully considered with wheelchair-friendly paths and ample parking, ensuring all guests enjoy the comfort and convenience of the estate. Furthermore, the venue’s all-inclusive packages simplify planning by covering catering, rentals, music, and clean-up, so your group experience is stress-free. Having a dedicated event staff and coordinator onsite means your gathering will flow smoothly, with no detail overlooked.
What services enhance the group experience at Secret Garden? The venue offers comprehensive amenities including event staff to assist with set-up and service, professional catering options that can be customized to your group’s taste, and an open bar managed by experienced bartenders. Private dressing rooms and suites are available, which are ideal if your meetup includes special ceremonies or themed dress-ups. For entertainment, lighting and sound systems are on hand, enabling DJs or speakers to set the perfect mood. The estate is pet-friendly, inviting everyone’s furry friends to join the fun, which adds a warm and inclusive touch for many groups. WiFi is also available to keep your group connected and share live moments on social media. Whether your event is a daytime garden brunch or an elegant evening affair, the staff’s professionalism and attention to detail ensure your meetup is seamless, comfortable, and unforgettable.
How does the historic and natural setting of Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings contribute to group enjoyment? The venue’s roots as a 1929 family estate shine through in its exquisite Spanish Revival style architecture: hand-stamped tiles, wrought iron details, elegant chandeliers, and ornate fireplaces transport guests to a romantic, timeless era. This grandeur is harmoniously balanced by extensive lush gardens with towering mesquite and palm trees providing welcome shade in the Arizona sun. The abundance of floral beds and native flora create vibrant colors and scents, enhancing the sensory experience of your group’s gathering. Quiet corners and large open spaces alike support diverse social interactions—from intimate conversations to lively group activities. The view of nearby mountain ranges adds a spectacular natural backdrop, ensuring the setting itself is a highlight of your event. Guests often remark that the serene environment encourages relaxation and connection unlike ordinary venues, making Secret Garden perfect for meaningful reunions or special celebrations among friends and family.
What practical benefits does Secret Garden offer for hosting a group meetup? Located conveniently in South Phoenix, the venue is easily accessible from many parts of the Valley, including Chandler, Mesa, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Tempe, and Glendale, reducing travel stress for your attendees. The venue provides on-site parking and is equipped with necessary conveniences like wheelchair accessibility, catering to diverse group needs. Packages available cover everything from ceremony and reception to bar and entertainment, which helps groups manage budgets and planning more efficiently. The experienced event coordinators work closely with you to customize your event timeline, décor, and menu to suit your group’s preferences, ensuring a personalized experience. Because the property is reserved exclusively for private events, your group enjoys an intimate setting with dedicated staff attention, enhancing security and privacy. These practical elements, combined with the venue’s natural and architectural beauty, make Secret Garden an outstanding choice for any group looking to gather in style and comfort.
How does the atmosphere of Secret Garden foster memorable social connections? The Secret Garden offers a magical combination of privacy, elegance, and outdoor splendor that naturally encourages guests to mingle and celebrate together. The shaded ceremony lawn and garden pavilions create inviting central hubs where your group can gather for shared experiences, whether enjoying a meal, dancing, or simply soaking in the ambiance. Luxurious touches such as vintage décor, chandeliers, and original period features provide unique talking points and conversation starters, enriching social interaction. The garden’s hidden nooks and patios offer guests a chance to retreat and recharge, making it easy for everyone to engage at their own pace. The venue’s pet-friendly policy adds a sense of warmth and inclusivity that enhances the communal feel. Overall, Secret Garden’s blend of thoughtful design and natural tranquility encourages everyone to relax and connect deeply, making your group meetup not only enjoyable but unforgettable.
What makes planning an event at Secret Garden stress-free for groups? The venue offers full-service event packages that include catering, bar services, rentals, décor, lighting, and professional event staff to assist from start to finish. This comprehensive approach means your group can streamline communication by working with a single experienced team familiar with the estate’s unique features and logistics. The dedicated event coordinator acts as a personal guide, helping you plan timelines, vendor needs, and setup to assure your gathering flows flawlessly. With daily availability for planning assistance, the venue staff provides reassurance and quick problem-solving whenever questions arise. The historic manor and gardens also offer well-maintained facilities and amenities that prevent common event mishaps, making setup and cleanup smooth and efficient. This level of expertise and support lets your group focus on celebrating together rather than managing details, fostering a joyful and relaxed atmosphere from arrival to farewell.
What are some examples of group events well-suited to Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings? The venue’s elegant yet versatile spaces suit a wide variety of gatherings beyond weddings, making it ideal for family reunions, milestone birthdays, anniversary celebrations, retirement parties, and even corporate retreats or team-building events. The gorgeous gardens provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor dinners, themed parties, or casual garden games. For more formal group outings, the grand manor and pavilion offer refined indoor settings for seated dinners, speeches, or presentations. The venue’s capacity and comprehensive services support large groups while maintaining a sense of intimacy. Pet-friendly policies and multiple seating and lounge options appeal to diverse groups who want an inclusive, memorable experience. The scenic environment also makes Secret Garden a favorite spot for photography sessions, whether your group wants to commemorate a special occasion or just capture joyful times together.
Why is the 4.7-star rating of Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings significant? This rating, based on nearly 300 customer reviews, reflects consistent satisfaction across many factors important for group events: venue aesthetics, staff professionalism, service quality, and overall experience. Reviewers commonly praise the venue's stunning gardens, elegant architecture, and the seamless coordination provided by the Wedgewood Weddings team. Many highlight how the venue helped create memorable experiences for their loved ones, emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail in planning and execution. The high rating also indicates reliability, which is crucial when organizing group events where expectations and coordination are complex. Choosing a venue with such a strong reputation reduces uncertainty and increases confidence that your meetup will be a success that attendees will fondly remember.
How do location and accessibility enhance the appeal of Secret Garden for group meetups? Situated in South Phoenix, the venue enjoys proximity to major roads and is centrally located to serve a wide community across the Valley of the Sun, including areas like Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and Scottsdale. This central position reduces travel time and complexity for guests coming from different neighborhoods, making attendance easier and more likely. The venue includes ample on-site parking and offers wheelchair-accessible paths and entrances, inviting all guests regardless of mobility needs. Its location near scenic South Mountain and Guadalupe Range also adds to the appeal, with breathtaking views that elevate the experience. For groups with members coming from outside the Phoenix metro area, the accessibility of the venue combined with local accommodations nearby create a welcoming environment for multi-day visits or extended celebrations.
How can Secret Garden by Wedgewood Weddings enhance the social and emotional dynamics of your group gathering? The venue’s romantic and lush surroundings foster a sense of occasion that helps people feel special and valued, encouraging emotional openness and joyful interactions. The tranquility of the gardens and vintage charm create a laid-back atmosphere where guests can unwind and engage more meaningfully. Unique architectural features and natural beauty inspire awe and appreciation, serving as a catalyst for shared delight and conversation. The all-inclusive service model reduces stress and allows hosts and guests to focus fully on enjoying each other’s company, strengthening bonds. Whether celebrating milestones or simply gathering for quality time, the Secret Garden setting supports intimate moments and collective joy, turning ordinary get-togethers into cherished memories.