I’ve spent the last decade in the wedding industry, working in nearly every facet—catering, event rentals, tent weddings, coordination, and venue management. While managing Dixon’s café, Park + Cherry, during my time with a catering company, I quickly fell in love with everything about this place: the gardens, the art, the events—and especially the people. The staff here is one of the most welcoming and genuine teams I’ve ever worked with.

I jumped at the chance for this role. The Dixon is such a unique blend of art, nature, and community—it’s peaceful, vibrant, and deeply rooted in creating a safe, inclusive space for families and people of all backgrounds.

The Dixon is truly a hidden gem. It’s always a little bittersweet to hear an event guest mention they’ve never visited before—but we’re thrilled when an event becomes their first introduction to the space! Many return again and again. It’s so special that Memphis has a free public space filled with breathtaking gardens and engaging art collections, and hosting an event here often opens guests’ eyes to this unique cultural treasure.

The property’s timeless beauty—with formal gardens, historic trees, and art-filled galleries—all in one place, offers something rare. It’s not your typical venue; it’s a living, seasonal backdrop that feels both intimate and grand. Whether it’s a wedding, a retreat, or a community gathering, this setting really elevates the entire guest experience.

Photos courtesy of Madeline Rose Photos

I work closely with each client or planner to create a seamless event flow—ceremony to cocktail hour to reception—so guests experience the gardens at just the right moments. For other events, we also offer docent-led tours, maps, and custom layouts to help groups make the most of this one-of-a-kind setting.

One of the best perks of a Dixon wedding is garden access—couples and their bridal party can arrive at noon to get changed and jump into photos. Whether it’s a first look in the Conservatory, or group shots on the Morrow Lawn, the photo opportunities are endless with 17 acres of stunning scenery.

Every event feels unique! The Bowlin Stage is most popular—nestled among timeless sculptures and lush landscaping with a storybook feel. In fair-weather months, The Cutting Garden makes a beautiful cocktail hour spot, surrounded by blooming color and perfect for a sip of champagne! The South Lawn offers wide-open views of the Bowlin Stage, wooded backdrops, or the grand museum porch—it’s breathtaking in every direction, and the kind of space that instantly puts you at ease. It’s honestly such a blessing to work every day in such a relaxing environment!

It’s very easy! Once you inquire, I’ll send over all the rental details—pricing, brochures, layouts, and FAQs, and try to schedule a tour for you to see everything in person. We can tentatively hold a date while you make decisions, and once you’re ready to move forward, it just takes a signed contract and deposit to secure your spot. We work very closely with planners and vendors to make sure everything runs smoothly, and any questions and logistics are answered!

Or you can reach out to me directly at hreasons@dixon.org or 901-312-1271. I’m happy to walk you through the options and help get things started!

A major tip is to book during the slower months, like summertime and winter. The slower pace in the gardens gives guests more room to explore freely and it has a quiet, ethereal feel. I’ll have been here one year this June, and I can certainly say some of my favorite moments are just after a light rain—when the gardens look like a fairy tale and everything glows. Or when the sunlight filters through the trees during golden hour—it’s truly magical.

My biggest tip? Trust the beauty of the space. You don’t need to over-decorate—just let the gardens and galleries shine.