The Lyman Estate in Waltham, Massachusetts is a stunning backdrop for weddings with character and charm. Recently featured in the movie Little Women, its sprawling gardens, elegant architecture, and historic ambiance made it the perfect setting for a unique wedding that felt more like a sophisticated garden party than a traditional celebration.

The couple traveled from Australia with their families, turning this day into a destination wedding. Rather than a formal celebration, their day was inspired by the warm, familial spirit of Little Women: simple yet elegant, relaxed yet meaningful, and full of genuine time spent with loved ones.

Getting Ready & Arriving at the Lyman Estate

The day began at the bride’s family home, where she got ready. After a short drive, she arrived at the Lyman Estate, where she slipped into her gown in the historic bridal suite. Both the bridal gown and the groom’s suit were from Australia, bringing a piece of home into their Boston celebration.

A First Look and Private Vows on the Lawn

The couple shared their first look on the estate’s sweeping lawn. Following that, they exchanged adorable private vows under the trees in the shade (it was one of the hottest days of the year.)

Greenhouse and Garden Portraits

The Lyman Estate greenhouse was the perfect setting for romantic couple’s portraits, with its lush greenery, historic glass windows, and shade. The nearbye gardens also served as a gorgeous backdrop. Their portraits felt cinematic, almost as though they had stepped into a frame of Little Women.

Groom waiting on Lyman Estate lawn for first look candid wedding photo

Couple reading handwritten private vows under tree-lined lawn

Bride leaning into groom during candid garden portrait at Lyman Estate

A Whimsical Garden Ceremony

The ceremony on the lawn was framed by whimsical florals in the gardens behind them. With family and friends gathered around, the two exchanged rings in an elegant setting. Nothing felt rushed or overly orchestrated; instead, the day had a natural rhythm that gave space for connection and joy.

Lyman Estate lawn outdoor wedding ceremony

Bride walking down the aisle across Lyman Estate lawn with gown flowing

Bride and groom holding hands during outdoor wedding vows

Bride and groom kissing as newlyweds at end of garden ceremony aisle

Intimate close-up of couple’s faces backlit by sunset glow

Candid newlywed portraits at Lyman Estate wedding with vintage car parked in the garden

Cocktail Hour, Lawn Games and High Tea

Instead of a formal reception, guests were welcomed to a cocktail hour outside the estate, where lawn games like croquet were encouraged laughter and mingling. The heart of the evening was a beautifully styled high tea reception, complete with fine china, tiered pastries, and seasonal treats. This choice reflected the couple’s vision and also a tradition that is important to them: a celebration that felt like an elevated garden party where they could spend meaningful time with their guests.

Guests mingling outside Lyman Estate during cocktail hour

Guests playing croquet during cocktail hour at garden wedding

Elegant high tea table setting with vintage china and pastel florals at Lyman Estate wedding

Guests seated at indoor high tea reception at Lyman Estate

Bride and groom raising tea cups in toast during indoor wedding reception

Cake Cutting and Sunset Portraits

Later in the afternoon, the couple cut their cake in front of loved ones before sneaking away for sunset portraits across the lawns of the Lyman Estate. The golden hour light was magical, softening the gardens and highlighting the couple’s relaxed, candid joy.