Old Westbury Gardens - First Look Pictures

We are looking for a place to take pictures before our ceremony. Old Westbury Gardens seems to be the most convenient to our venue, but I hear they are very strict and I do not want that part of our day to be stressful. I did not get a good vibe when I called to get information.

Please share your experiences with taking photos here or if you have any other suggestions on where we can look to take pictures in the area.

Thanks :)

Old Westbury Gardens - First Look Pictures

I was a bridesmaid in my cousin's wedding who had her pictures taken there. I fell in love with the grounds--they're truly amazing. We didn't run into any issues taking pictures there. We took pictures inside (they didn't allow you to go upstairs) and outdoors in the gardens which the best pictures took place. I know there is a site fee to take pictures there though. This was about 4 years ago though, so hopefully nothing has changed!

Re: Old Westbury Gardens - First Look Pictures

I think the fee there is like $250, one of the most expensive fees. We took our pics at the Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay, and their permit fee is $100 plus $8 per car. And they weren't strict at all. In fact, we never saw one employee. And not a lot of people.

Our pictures came out beautiful. So many different types of shots available....garden scenes, historic buildings, etc.

Old Westbury Gardens - First Look Pictures

I'm considering that as well. I'm getting married at Chateau Briand and wanted some greenery. I read bad reviews. I'll have to pay that place a visit before signing a contract first.

Old Westbury Gardens - First Look Pictures

I had my pictures taken at OWG. We went in between our church and reception. I have to tell you, it was the best decision I made. I have the most amazing pictures, I didn't even get my professional pics back yet. I have them all from our cellphones.
The woman you have to deal with over the phone (if I remember correctly, I think Kim)is not nice. I found her very condescending and rude. She made it seem like you were taking your pictures at the White House.
We had our session between 5pm - 6:30pm. She said that in way shape or form can we come anytime before 5 and if we are 15 mins late we forfeit our $475!! and won't be allowed on the grounds. She told me that I was not allowed to have pictures taken in the dark, and that we were going to have a guide with us escorting us around. Needless to say she takes her job a little too seriously.
Day of - we got there around 4:40, was able to take pictures right away. Which was amazing b/c I wanted to have pictures before the sun went down. The escort didn't come find us until like 5:20. We only paid for 19 people, but we ended up have like 25-26 people (b/c of last min girlfriends of our groomsmen coming in our party bus) and the escort didn't say anything. I thought we were going to have to pay extra, and she didn't even care.
So, all in all I am so happy we went there. Yes, it was crazy expensive, but I think it was worth it. Pictures are so important, and the scenery there is amazing.
Just bite your tongue when dealing with Kim LOL

Old Westbury Gardens - First Look Pictures

They are very strict at OWG. Mostly on the time spent there. I was in a bridal party and saw the groom get into an argument with them because the 'tour guide' wouldn't let them take just one more photo. I would look into Planting Fields, it's cheaper and just as beautiful

Old Westbury Gardens - First Look Pictures

I don't like rude people, especially on my wedding day! My bridesmaids and the groom won't be too happy about that!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll check out Planting Fields. Thanks StephanieRyan. :)