You know that feeling when you stumble upon a place that makes the city fade away? That’s exactly what the Blockhouse PDX wedding venue feels like. Tucked in the heart of Portland, this garden oasis is one of the city’s top-rated wedding venues and is a dream location for plant lovers or any couple craving a little greenery. The entire property is filled with lush greenery, quiet corners, and soft sunlight making it feel like your own hidden retreat. It’s perfect for an intimate celebration that feels both magical and effortless and is one of my favorite venues in the state!
As an Oregon wedding photographer, I’ve captured so many couples here, and each wedding feels like stepping into a vibrant, secret garden all over again. From the charming garden nooks to the city-convenient location, this venue is a favorite for good reason. Keep reading to see why it’s such a special spot for saying “I do.”
Why You’ll Love Blockhouse Wedding Venue
Located inside Pomarius Nursery, the Blockhouse Wedding Venue feels like a secret world tucked into the heart of the city. Surrounded by towering buildings and the buzz of urban life, it quickly transports you to what feels like a world away. The owner’s South of France roots shine through in the carefully sculpted boxwoods and topiaries, while the space still carries a distinctly PNW character. Of course, because it’s a greenhouse, warm light spills through the nursery and bathes everything in a soft, airy glow that makes the setting feel even more serene. The space is (literally) alive and vibrant and is designed with thoughtful intention and heart at every turn. It’s truly one of Portland’s most special wedding venues.
Quick Facts and Features of Blockhouse Wedding Venue
General Information
Where is Blockhouse Wedding Venue?
Blockhouse sits in Northwest Portland’s Slabtown District. Being right in the city means plenty of nearby boutiques, restaurants, and hotels, including one of my favorites, Woodlark. It’s also just about 20 minutes from Portland International Airport, making it convenient to access for out-of-town guests.
How the Blockhouse Wedding Venue and Pomarious Nursery Work Together
The Blockhouse wedding venue is actually located within Pomarius Nursery, but the two teams have worked together to create a wedding experience unlike any other. After entering the nursery, you’ll stroll down a plant-lined path to Blockhouse PDX. That path leads to a covered patio tucked inside the nursery with warm café lights glowing overhead. It’s perfectly sized for an intimate micro wedding, hosting up to 48 guests.
If you need a bit more room, next to Blockhouse is the Orangerie Pomarius, a greenhouse overflowing with greenery and foliage that can host up to 120 people. The nursery can even build a wall of plants behind you for an extra lush backdrop. Either way, you’ll be able to wander the nursery grounds and soak in the property’s cozy, natural vibe.
Blockhouse Wedding Venue Accessibility
Blockhouse is fully wheelchair accessible, so everyone at your wedding can enjoy the day without any stress. The entire venue is on one level, which means no stairs to worry about, and moving around feels easy and relaxed. Plus, being right in the heart of the city makes it simple for vendors to move freely in and out, keeping the whole day feeling smooth and stress-free.
Unique Amenities Found at Blockhouse Wedding Venue
Flexible ceremony locations: covered patio or greenhouse
On-site commercial kitchen and bar for vendors
Custom wood tables and chairs included, along with setup and takedown
Easy parking on the street or in nearby lots
Pet friendly
Open to outside vendors and chefs
Best Photo Spots at Blockhouse Wedding Venue
From the striking greenhouse to the flowing foliage and city building backdrops, Blockhouse is packed with incredible spots for photos. Here are a few of my favorites.
Orangerie Pomarius Greenhouse
The Orangerie Pomarius greenhouse is absolutely breathtaking. I love how lush and vibrant it feels, with the greenhouse-style walls framing all the flowing plantlife. If you want the plants at their fullest and most alive, I recommend booking a spring wedding.
Entrance Pathway
This charming brick-lined pathway winds its way through the garden, surrounded by greenery and glowing café lights overhead. This is one of my favorite spaces to go for couple portraits as the little pockets and hidden make space for some of the most magical, intimate photo opportunities.
Nearby Neighborhood
Exploring the nearby streets of Slabtown really highlights the modern-oasis vibe of the venue. If you’re staying downtown, we can also grab photos among the tall city structures, adding a fun mix of textures and settings to your wedding photos.
Ideal Wedding Styles for Blockhouse Wedding Venue
If you’re a city-loving couple who still wants a nature-inspired, organic wedding, Blockhouse is a dream. With its modern architecture set against the lush, plant-filled nursery, it strikes the perfect balance between sleek and romantic. It’s also a great fit if you’re hoping to add a touch of boho charm to your day. For smaller, more intimate weddings, Blockhouse is just the right size, ideal for a relaxed cocktail-style reception or a cozy dinner inside the greenhouse.
Nikola and Zachary’s Blockhouse wedding was featured in Boho Weddings!
Tips for Planning a Blockhouse Wedding
Add Seasonal Decor to Personalize the Space
Adding seasonal touches to your Blockhouse wedding will make the day feel even more personal and inviting. In the spring, floral accents bring pops of color that complement the lush green vibe. Or in the winter, warm lighting can make the space feel extra cozy and magical.
Get Creative with the Patio
The Blockhouse Patio is a customizable space that can be transformed to fit your vision. Whether you want a photo booth, late-night snack station, or your dance floor under glowing café lights once the sun sets, it’s a true blank canvas for your celebration.
Blockhouse Wedding Venue Booking Advice
Since Pomarius is an active nursery, most ceremonies happen around 6:30 pm, after closing hours. This works perfectly if you’re hoping for a later celebration or a relaxed morning beforehand. And while you’ll need to get ready off site, having a separate space in the city is a wonderful way to add another layer to your day and your wedding photos. You can also schedule extra time at the nursery beforehand if you want more photos among the plants.
Finally, Blockhouse has a list of preferred vendors, but they’re open to working with others. I recommend reaching out early, especially if there’s a special chef or vendor you’d like to include in your day.
Real Love Stories at Blockhouse Wedding Venue
As an Oregon wedding photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to photograph quite a few weddings at Blockhouse over the years. Below are some favorite celebrations that perfectly capture the heart of this space.
From wandering through the lush greenery to celebrating under soft, glowing lights, Blockhouse wedding venue lets you design a day that’s completely yours. It’s the perfect mix of Portland’s city energy and the quiet magic of a hidden garden. Weddings here provide a place to exchange vows among thriving plants, explore charming nooks, and still be just steps away from the heart of the city for whatever adventures follow your reception.
Blockhouse is just one of Oregon’s many incredible venues. To see more of my favorites, check out my guide to the best wedding venues in the state. And if you’re dreaming of a wedding here, reach out. I’d love to help bring your Blockhouse day to life.
