Lavished with climbing vines, the exterior of Ivy Hall blends with its surrounding gardens: Tropical palms mingle with magnificent desert century plants. Stone paths meander to cascading ferns and flourishing fruit trees. And feathery leaves dotted with yellow blossoms form a canopy where couples say, “I do.”

Tucked in one lusciously green acre in the King William district, the Ivy Hall event and garden spaces are seamlessly adaptable for mid- and large-sized wedding ceremonies and receptions as well as wedding showers and rehearsal dinners.

“People are surprised to find such a hidden wonderland only a mile south of downtown San Antonio,” says Tim McDiarmid, Ivy Hall’s owner.  “Our eclectic gardens and versatile indoor space have an artsy West Texas meets retro Palm Springs vibe that is versatile for any celebration.”

Mid-century Meets Modern

The alluring mix of nature, architecture and art of Ivy Hall is apparent at every turn. Inspired by the original structure’s past as a filling station in the 1950s, the venue’s name is displayed in turquoise and white neon lights that flash from a vine-covered exterior wall.

“Guests enjoy taking selfies in front of the Ivy Hall sign,” says Scott Jacobsen, the venue’s director of sales. “The neon is very iconic of the mid-century style that gives our space character.”

Ivy Hall’s interior showcases exposed concrete beams, lofty ceilings, brick masonry walls and Sputnik-style chandeliers featuring glass globes.

“The modern lines give couples the flexibility to customize the space with flowers, art pieces, linens and lighting that fit their aesthetic,” Lear says.

Double doors lead to the garden and can remain open throughout the event.

Out-of-the-Box Layout  

On the charming lawn, arrangements of cozy lounges and ottomans provide a relaxed resort feel, and an abstract metal sculpture captures the imagination. Overhanging wispy tree branches create an archway where couples can exchange vows.

Garden paths unlock nooks for conversation, photo taking and sipping drinks. A jewel-toned tiled table and wraparound stone benches offer a charming vignette. Bronze globe lighting suspended from the trees and strings of golden Edison bulbs supply sophisticated illumination.

Against a backdrop of soaring bamboo, a stunning sapphire blue pod structure is available as a bridal preparation room, newlywed’s retreat or elevated bar. The repurposed and comfortably furnished pod features wood floors, an acrylic dining table, cube chairs and a raised patio constructed of recycled plastic.

“Ivy Hall offers more than an ordinary boxed space with four walls,” McDiarmid says. “Our non-traditional layout gives brides and grooms the flexibility to use the indoor and outdoor spaces as creatively as they want, just like they would if they were hosting their wedding in their own home and garden.”

Together, Ivy Hall and the garden can host occasions for up to 300 guests. Couples desiring more space can rent the dining room and patio of McDiarmid’s on-site restaurant, The Good Kind, which increases the capacity to 400 guests.

Your Oasis for the Day

The rental of Ivy Hall includes round tables and white padded wood chairs for 100 guests, white linens and napkins, silverware, goblets as well as biodegradable bamboo plates. Farmhouse tables that could function as a buffet, gift or cake table are also part of the package. Additional furnishings, place setting and linen options are available.

To lessen the stress of planning, McDiarmid’s company, Tim the Girl Catering, provides cuisine for all Ivy Hall events.

“My talented chefs and I are open to curating any kind of menu, from local taco bar favorites and barbeque dinners to spreads of fresh Mediterranean fare,” she says.

A list of preferred vendors is available, and the Ivy Hall staff gives a complimentary space planning consultation.

“Brides and grooms tell us how they want their event to flow, and we show them the possibilities,” Jacobsen says. “It’s their downtown oasis for the day.”