Wedding Flowers at The Garrison

Designing at 2015 US-9 requires a deep respect for the horizon. The site sits on 300 acres of the Hudson Highlands, offering a scale of natural beauty that can easily swallow undersized floral arrangements. Success here lies in creating designs that act as a frame for the river and mountains rather than a distraction from them.

We know this venue intimately. From the shifting light over the Catskills to the specific wind patterns of the ceremony overlook, our designs are built to withstand the elements while maintaining a high-end, editorial aesthetic.

The Spaces

Ceremony Overlook

This is the venue’s most dramatic asset, providing an open-air view of the Hudson River. The lack of overhead structure means the sky is your ceiling, giving you permission to go wide with ground-level installations.

• What works: “Growing” ground meadows that trace the curve of the overlook or a deconstructed arch that leaves the center open for the view.
• Skip: Tall, spindly pedestals that look fragile against the vast mountain backdrop.
• Watch out: The wind here is no joke. All arrangements must be heavily weighted or secured to the ground.
• Budget hero move: Focus the majority of your ceremony budget on a lush, ground-anchored semi-circle that can be repurposed to the sweetheart table later.

Main Banquet Room

The ballroom is defined by its massive panoramic windows and interior columns. It is a clean, sophisticated space that transitions beautifully from natural daylight to evening candlelight.

• What works: Low, lush centerpieces that allow guests to see the sunset through the windows.
• Skip: Mid-height arrangements that sit exactly at eye level, blocking both the view and cross-table conversation.
• Watch out: The ceiling height is standard, so if you want height, use the columns for climbing installations rather than tall table stands.
• Budget hero move: Wrap two primary columns in greenery and tuck in focal blooms to create a high-impact “indoor garden” feel without needing an arrangement on every single table.

Stone-Flagged Covered Terrace

This space offers a more rustic, tactile environment with its stone flooring and proximity to the gardens. It’s frequently used for cocktail hour or intimate ceremonies.

• What works: Textural, herb-forward arrangements and stone-colored vessels that mimic the architecture.
• Skip: Overly formal, tight rose spheres that feel too “ballroom” for this outdoor setting.
• Watch out: The stone can get hot in mid-summer; ensure all florals are in water-heavy mechanics.

Windowed Room

A more intimate indoor option, often featuring farm tables. The light here is exceptional, making it a favorite for photography-focused couples.

• What works: Long, low greenery garlands with nested taper candles or clusters of bud vases in varying heights.
• Skip: Large, round traditional centerpieces that feel cramped on narrow farm tables.

What Works at 2015 US-9

• Open-Center Arches: Whether using the permanent arbor or a custom structure, keep the middle clear. The Hudson River is your backdrop; don’t hide it behind a wall of hydrangea.
• Weighted Mechanics: We prioritize heavy stone or metal bases for all outdoor pieces. The elevation at Garrison makes it a wind tunnel, and lightweight plastic containers will not hold.
• Sunset Palettes: The light at this venue turns golden and then deep blue. Flowers in shades of peach, terracotta, and warm white glow beautifully during the transition from ceremony to reception.
• Column Wraps: Instead of traditional tall centerpieces, use the ballroom’s architecture. Smilax or Italian Ruscus climbing the pillars brings the “countryside retreat” vibe indoors.
• Textural Greenery: Given the 300 acres of woods and fields, incorporating foraged-style greens like fern, eucalyptus, and olive branch helps the decor feel cohesive with the estate.

Budget Guide

This venue rewards those who invest in scale over quantity; one massive installation is always better than many small ones here.

Tips

• Prioritize the “Flip”: Ask your designer to create ceremony pieces that can easily move to the Stone Terrace or the Main Ballroom to maximize your investment.
• Mind the Sightlines: In the banquet room, the view is the guest of honor. Keep table arrangements below 12 inches or above 24 inches.
• Mechanical Stability: Ensure your florist is aware of the wind exposure at the Overlook; standard foam-based designs on light stands are a liability here.
• Embrace the Season: The Hudson Highlands change dramatically from spring greens to autumn ochres; choose a palette that complements the current state of the 300-acre grounds.
• Check the Arbor: If using the permanent wooden arbor, ensure your florist has the proper hardware to attach flowers without damaging the wood, as venue restrictions often apply.