For couples who love golf, or who met on the course, a golf-themed wedding is a lovely way to celebrate something you share. Golf clubs make beautiful wedding venues, with manicured grounds, sweeping views and clubhouses designed for hospitality. And there are plenty of ways to add a touch of golf to your day, from subtle details to a full golf day for your guests. The key is to make it personal and fun, without leaving your non-golfing guests feeling left out.
Golf club venues
Why choose a golf venue?
- Scenery: fairways, greens, trees, water and views make beautiful backdrops.
- Space: large function rooms, terraces and lawns for ceremonies and receptions.
- Experience: many clubs host weddings regularly and have catering and events teams.
- Accommodation: golf resorts often have rooms for guests. Read how to choose a golf resort.
Questions to ask
- Is the ceremony allowed outdoors, and where? On a lawn, a terrace or beside the 18th green?
- What are the rules for photography on the course, and when can you go out?
- Will golf be taking place during the wedding, and how will guests be kept safe?
- Is there a rain plan?
- Can guests play golf on the day before or after?
- What are the dress code and noise rules in the clubhouse?
Theme ideas
Subtle touches
- Table names based on golf terms, such as "Birdie", "Eagle" and "Hole in One", or hole numbers.
- Place cards held by golf tees or attached to golf balls.
- Ball markers engraved with the date as favours or place settings.
- Colours inspired by the course: greens, whites and natural tones.
- A "hole" seating plan: guests find their "tee time" for the reception.
Playful touches
- Cake topper with the couple as golfers, or a golf-bag cake.
- Putting contest at the reception, with a prize for the best putter.
- Golf-cart getaway decorated with "Just Married" signs.
- Signage such as "Please wait to be seated, players ahead".
- Guest book in the form of a golf flag or a framed scorecard for guests to sign.
Favours
Golf-themed favours are popular and practical:
- Personalised golf balls with your names and date.
- Tee packs or ball markers.
- Golf-ball shaped chocolates or cookies.
- Small towels or divot tools.
- Mini bottles of something celebratory with golf tags.
Include favours non-golfers will enjoy too. Read gift ideas for golfers.
Photos on the course
- Golden hour photos on the fairway or green look stunning.
- Golf carts make fun transport for the wedding party.
- The 18th green with the flag is a classic backdrop.
- Golf umbrellas in your colours protect from rain or sun and look great in photos. Read our golf rain gear guide.
- Respect the course: stay off greens when asked, avoid heels on putting surfaces and keep to areas the club permits.
A golf day for guests
A golf day before or after the wedding is a great way to bring families and friends together.
- Format: a scramble or team event lets golfers of all levels play together. Read golf formats and games explained.
- Mix the teams so families and friends meet.
- Include non-golfers with a short-course round, putting contest or lessons. Read par-3 and short courses.
- Prizes: small, fun awards. Read golf trophies and prizes.
- Plan the timing so nobody is tired for the main event.
Read how to organise a golf day.
Gifts for the wedding party
- Golf gloves, balls or towels personalised with initials.
- Engraved putters or divot tools.
- A round at a special course.
- A golf lesson for a non-golfing bridesmaid or groomsman.
Keeping non-golfers happy
- Keep the theme light: a few clever details are better than golf everywhere.
- Explain golf jokes on signs or menus, or keep them simple.
- Offer other activities during the golf day, such as a spa, a walk or a tour.
- Speeches: keep golf stories short.
Budget tips
- Off-season and weekday weddings at golf clubs are often cheaper.
- Packages may include ceremony, reception and accommodation.
- DIY details such as tee place cards and ball favours are inexpensive.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get married on a golf course?
Many golf clubs and resorts host ceremonies on lawns, terraces or beside greens. Check the venue's licence, rules and rain plan.
What are good golf wedding favours?
Personalised golf balls, ball markers, tee packs and golf-themed sweets are popular. Include something for non-golfers too.
How do I include a golf day in my wedding plans?
Hold a scramble or team event the day before or after the wedding, with mixed teams and options for non-golfers.
Will golfers be playing during my wedding?
Possibly. Ask the venue how the course will be managed during your ceremony and photos.
The bottom line
A golf-themed wedding can be elegant, fun and deeply personal. Choose a venue with beautiful grounds and experienced staff, add subtle golf touches and a few playful details, consider a golf day for guests, and keep everyone, golfers and non-golfers alike, feeling included. For more on golf and your social life, read how to find golf partners.