Business Details
14 Years
experience
Outdoor Wedding & Event Venue in Northfield, MN
The Gardens of Castle Rock was founded in 2012 by Glenn Switzer, a landscape design expert with over 30 years of experience creating beautiful outdoor environments. Our venue combines authentic craftsmanship with natural beauty, offering couples a unique space for weddings and events. We prioritize personalized service, allowing clients to customize their ceremonies and receptions across four distinct ceremony sites and a spacious reception area. Our commitment to quality is reflected in handcrafted features like timber-framed structures and natural stone fireplaces.With exclusive access to the venue from 8 AM to midnight, we ensure flexibility for planning and execution. Our team provides comprehensive support, from setup to cleanup, while maintaining a focus on sustainability and guest comfort. The venue's design encourages relaxed, memorable experiences for up to 300 guests, with amenities like open-air spaces, Wi-Fi, and specialized lighting. Recognized for excellence in landscaping and design, we've been featured in Midwest magazines and continue to innovate while preserving traditional techniques.
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Reception Venues
Event Rentals
Catering Services
Photography Locations
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- Exclusive venue access from 8 AM to midnight for one event per day
- Four unique ceremony sites with natural beauty and photography opportunities
- Open catering policy allowing any licensed, insured caterer
- Handcrafted timber structures and natural stone features
- Comprehensive event rentals and setup/teardown services
What people say
Most beautiful outdoor wedding venue
Stunning space
Perfect day
Relaxed environment
Amazing photos
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Our venue offers four distinct ceremony locations surrounded by natural beauty. Each site provides unique photographic opportunities and flexible setup options. Guests can choose from woodland settings, lath houses, or manicured lawns while benefiting from included amenities like sound systems and seating arrangements.
Reception Venues
The 40'x100' reception tent features cathedral ceilings and paver flooring. Complemented by 6,000 sq ft of patio space and natural stone fireplaces, our venues accommodate 2-300 guests. Included amenities feature custom layout options, 20 cedar tables, and 30 round tables with multiple chair choices.
Event Rentals
Our complete rental package includes ceremony sound systems, seating for 300 guests, and setup/teardown services. Additional offerings include landscape lighting, insect control, and background music systems. Clients receive complimentary parking attendants and waste management services.
Catering Services
We maintain an open catering policy allowing any licensed, insured caterer. The venue accommodates diverse service styles including buffets, sit-down meals, and food trucks. Clients benefit from flexible beverage policies with no alcohol minimums and pre-approved beverage service providers.
Photography Locations
The property features multiple picturesque settings including timber-framed structures, natural stone elements, and landscaped gardens. Our four ceremony sites and reception areas provide varied backdrops. Professional photography packages include access to unique architectural features like the Garden Pavilion and Cruck Frame.
People
Glenn Switzer
Owner
With over 30 years in landscape design, Glenn founded The Gardens of Castle Rock in 2012. His work combines traditional craftsmanship with natural elements, earning multiple industry awards. He focuses on creating spaces that balance aesthetics with functional outdoor living areas.
Questions
What event types do you host?
We specialize in weddings but also host corporate events, reunions, graduations, memorials, and celebration of life events.
How many guests can you accommodate?
Our outdoor spaces comfortably host 2-300 guests with larger events requiring special arrangements.
Can we bring our own caterer?
Yes, we have an open catering policy allowing any licensed, insured caterer of your choice.
Do you offer exclusive venue access?
Yes, we host only one event per day with exclusive property access from 8 AM to midnight.
What amenities are included?
Our package includes tables, chairs, sound systems, parking attendants, waste management, and landscape lighting.
Are there on-site accommodations?
We provide two dressing suites and have partnerships with local hotels for guest accommodations.
