Yes! But also not necessarily. Berkeley has a temperamental coastal climate and is prone to evening fog and wind. Many a tourist in San Francisco can be seen wearing "I <3 SF" sweatshirts in the summer due to not packing enough layers. Though part of the reception will be indoors, we highly recommend you bring a jacket for the evening.
Unfortunately, no. The Botanical Garden will be closed after 5:00pm, except for the areas used for the wedding, cocktail hour, and reception. However, wedding guests will have free admission to the Botanical Garden for all of August 29th, so you can come early and explore the beautiful garden at your leisure!
Smoking is strictly prohibited at the Botanical Garden. If you would like to smoke, please do so outside the garden premises on Centennial Drive, just a few feet away. Also, as the Botanical Garden is a research institution, please refrain from handling the plants or stepping onto the plant beds.
The Botanical Garden parking lot will be reserved for our use starting at 5:00pm, with 50 spots available.
If you would like to bring an additional +1, please reach out to us at zoyaandjack@gmail.com.
There is lots of helpful and interesting information at https://botanicalgarden.berkeley.edu/ .
Please reach out to us at zoyaandjack@gmail.com !