Instead of having a sit-down wedding banquet at a hotel, we propose an alternative: a lovely solemnisation at a hotel's outdoor venue, whether by the pool or in their garden, followed by a buffet-style reception for a slight twist on the usual weddings. Here are our picks of the dreamiest garden and pool weddings in Singapore's best four and five-star hotels.

Four-Star Hotels

1) Outdoor Weddings at Ramada Singapore at Zhongshan Park

Get married at the amazing outdoor venue on the third floor of the Ramada Singapore at Zhongshan Park, where the timber aisle is flanked by lush greenery on either side, making it a dreamy garden venue for your perfect solemnisation, adorned with floral arches and flower petals. If you have a ton of guests attending the solemnisation, we have a piece of advice: let your guests know to wear flats rather than heels if they're going to be standing around on the grass.

Prices begin from S$70++ to S$80++ per person for a buffet lunch and dinner respectively.

2) Idyllic Poolside Weddings at Naumi Hotel

This blissful poolside venue at the Cloud 9 Infinity Pool Bar is great for small weddings--of just about 50 people--and commands a great view of the Singapore skyline, perfect for day or evening solemnisations. Its location at Seah Street also makes it super accessible for your guests. Adorn the location with a touch of florals or twinkling light to transform the area into your dream wedding venue.

The reception menu includes four canapés and a non-vegetarian buffet at S$78++ for a minimum of 25 persons.

3) Perfect Poolside Weddings at Park Hotel Alexandra

The Aqua Luna Pool Deck on the seventh level of the hotel has unblocked views of the area and the infinity pool, and can seat 200 for a cocktail reception and in a round table setting, perfect for solemnisations followed by a dinner reception against the setting sun.

Prices from S$2,888 to S$3,888 for lunch and dinner solemnisations, with an additional charge of S$48 per guest for free flow of wine and beer. After-party celebrations at Aqua Luna at S$20 per guest for the first hour.

4) Picturesque Poolside Weddings at Village Hotel Changi

At Village Hotel Changi, choose from wedding receptions and solemnisations at the Creek Pool or the Infinity Pool. The Creek Pool can accommodate up to 180 people, and overlooks the lush greens of Changi Golf Club. Dress up the venue with scalloped chairs, and elegant table cloths, white tentage and of course, fairy lights to create the perfect ambience for your wedding.

For a smaller, more intimate venue, try the Infinity Pool, which can accommodate up to 90 people. We love the flower arch that signals the beginning of the aisle that leads to the solemnisation table with views of the infinity pool behind.

Prices start from S$86- S$96 per person for a minimum of 30 people.

Five Star Hotels

We scoured the best five-star hotels around Singapore for their best poolside, rooftop and garden venues that would definitely beat any ballroom banquet--provided the weather complies. A number of these are located in Sentosa, so here's a tip: Ask the hotel for complimentary shuttle from Harbourfront Station to the hotel to make it easier for your guests who don't drive, or charter a bus.

6) Gorgeous Garden Weddings at Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa

The clifftop Spice Island point at Sofitel Sentosa above Tanjong Beach overlooks the South China Sea, creating an amazing backdrop for your solemnisation. The perfect decorations to dress this up would of course be flowers, but other gorgeous accents could include balloons and artfully draped cloth and rustic wooden signs with calligraphy overlaid with gorgeous blooms.

Prices start from S$5,558 for Spice Island Point, and includes a cocktail reception. For an added buffet lunch and dinner, prices range from about S$68 to $98 per person. (Images from Sofitel Sentosa's Facebook page).

7) Walking on Water at Capella Singapore

Few venues can beat this one at Capella Singapore for the dramatic factor. The couple--and their Justice of Peace--walk out to the middle of the pool, looking as if they're walking on water (yes, there's a raised platform down below), while their guests watch the proceedings from the safety of the timber deck. This amazing venue, which seats up to 80 guests, even has space for a three-person string band to play the couples' march-in song.

Image Credits:Lighted Pixels

The price for a solemnisation at this spectacular venue is S$14,888, and includes a welcome reception with drinks and fruit pops served throughout the ceremony.

8) Glorious Garden Solemnisations at W Singapore - Sentosa Cove

It's easy to find the W Lawn at W Singapore - Sentosa Cove, just look out for the giant gold wrapped sweet (or Christmas cracker). The venue, overlooking the pool, can seat up to 200 persons in a banquet-style setting and needs just a few decorations--florals, of course, and Tiffany chairs--to make it a truly wonderful location to say your vows. You can also continue to have your reception here, with an elegant black-and-gold theme if you wish.

Images from W Singapore's Facebook page.

$4,888++ free flow of soft drinks, floral arrangements for the W Lawn, and a Studio Room as a backup.

9) Classy Outdoor Weddings at Amara Resort Sentosa

Set in 3.8 hectares of lush tropical gardens, nestled away from prying eyes, is the Glass Pavilion at Amara Resort Sentosa, one of the most desirable outdoor wedding venues in Singapore. Its highlights are the antique chapel bell and the waterfall behind it, creating an enchanting and Instagram-worthy backdrop for your wedding photos.

The package price is about S$2,288++ for the venue rental, while the accompanying buffet lunch and dinner is priced at S$98++ and S$108++ per person (for a minimum of 30 persons)

Another scenic venue at Amara Sentosa is the Sky Pool, where guests can look out to the fantastic panoramic views of the South China Sea. Be wedded in absolute bliss with 20 of your closest family and friends, and then enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch or dinner after the event. After-party celebrations can also be held at the Tier Bar.

The package, at S$1,388++ includes free flow of soft drinks for up to 20 guests. Buffet lunch and dinner prices are S$98++ and S$108++ per person respectively, and the Post Party Celebration includes free flow selected wine, beer and soft drinks at S$30++ for the first hour. (Images from Amara Sanctuary's website and Facebook page).

10) Rooftop Splendour at The Fullerton Bay Hotel

Don't worry, if you're looking for five-star outdoor venues in hotels, you don't have to go too far. The Fullerton Bay Hotel has an amazing option we're loving: the Lantern on the rooftop of the hotel, which gives a great view of Singapore's skyline for gorgeous wedding photos. We suggest going with the scenery and adopting a complementary blue and gold colour scheme.

Prices begin from S$,888 for a solemnisation, with a selection of canapés to be passed out during the reception. Additional free flow of drinks ranges from S$70 to S$100 per person.

11) Garden Weddings With a View at Hotel Fort Canning

We love Hotel Fort Canning for the range of venues it has, from poolside, garden and the traditional ballrooms. One of the myriad options is Tisettanta Terrace, which is an intimate and scenic green terrace that overlooks Fort Canning Park. It's also a fantastic option if you want to bring along your beloved dog to be the ringbearer, as pets are allowed at this venue.

One of the best places in Hotel Fort Canning to hold your solemnisation is the Garden Terrace, facing the splendid colonial architecture of the hotel, framed by a canopy of trees. We really love the string of fairy lights that would perfectly illuminate a sunset ceremony.

Prices start from S$2,888++ for 40 persons to S$5,688++ for 50 persons, which includes either a high tea, international buffet lunch or dinner at either The Salon or The Glass House. Prices for additional persons apply.

Outdoor Wedding Essentials

The weather in Singapore can be scorching hot, so we suggest providing your guests with fans, hats, umbrellas, sunglasses, and flip flops or high heel protectors, as it can be trying to walk on grass with heels--and all double up as thoughtful wedding favours they can use again. We also recommend having a wet weather plan should the sky choose to shower its blessings on you that day.

Check out other amazing solemnisation venues in Singapore.

For smaller weddings, try these intimate wedding venues (that are not hotels).

Come meet these vendors in person at our Hitcheed Wedding Wonderland at Suntec Convention Centre Level 3. RSVP now: rsvp.hitcheed.com