Nature Conservancy Weddings: A Dream Come True?

The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental non-profit organisation with a presence in 81 countries and territories. The conservancy has protected over 125 million acres of land and runs over 100 marine conservation projects. The conservancy's mission is to conserve the lands and waters that all life depends on.

The Nature Conservancy has chapters in all 50 states and offers a range of venues for weddings. Couples can choose from a variety of scenic outdoor ceremony locations, nature-themed indoor spaces, and stunning outdoor decks with gorgeous views. The conservancy also provides recommendations for trusted vendors and additional services, making the wedding planning process seamless.

In addition to its environmental conservation efforts, The Nature Conservancy encourages couples to contribute to the protection of ecologically significant land by suggesting donations in lieu of wedding gifts. This unique approach allows couples and their guests to celebrate their special day while supporting a worthy cause.

With its dedication to wildlife preservation and commitment to creating memorable events, The Nature Conservancy provides a one-of-a-kind setting for weddings, offering both natural beauty and rustic charm.

Venue options and capacity

The Howard County Conservancy in Maryland offers a range of venue options for couples looking to tie the knot. Nestled in scenic Howard County, this historic venue dates back to the late 19th century and was once a farm. The sprawling estate has been transformed into a sanctuary for wildlife preservation and environmental education, creating a magical atmosphere for weddings.

The grounds feature lush meadows, tranquil ponds, and towering trees, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor ceremonies. Couples can exchange vows under a beautiful oak tree or by a shimmering pond, with nature-inspired decor and fresh flowers adorning the aisle. For the reception, the venue offers nature-themed indoor spaces that are cozy and intimate, with warm wood accents and string lights for a romantic ambiance. The indoor spaces also serve as a backup plan in case of inclement weather.

The Michigan Wildlife Conservancy in Bath, Michigan, is another venue option that can accommodate 300+ guests. This venue offers both covered and uncovered outdoor spaces, including a large patio with a clear roof that can fit under 300 people. There are also on-site accommodations, making it convenient for guests. The scenery is described as beautiful, with a lake and multiple ceremony spots, providing plenty of options for breathtaking wedding photos.

Catering and other vendors

Catering Options:

Firstly, decide on the style of catering you envision for your special day. Do you prefer a formal sit-down dinner or a more casual buffet-style reception? The Michigan Wildlife Conservancy, for example, offers both options, allowing you to choose what suits your preferences and the tone of your wedding.

It is also essential to consider the dietary needs and preferences of you and your guests. Be sure to communicate any special requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other allergy-related needs, to your caterer.

Vendor Recommendations:

Nature conservancies like the Howard County Conservancy often have a network of trusted vendors they can recommend. These professionals, including photographers, florists, and caterers, are experienced in working with the venue and can help bring your wedding vision to life. Taking advantage of these recommendations can ensure a seamless planning process and a memorable event.

Personalization:

When it comes to catering and decor, nature conservancies offer endless possibilities for personalization. Embrace the natural surroundings by incorporating nature-inspired elements into your decor. Imagine dining at tables adorned with organic centerpieces or using fresh flowers and greenery in your ceremony decor.

Guest Accommodations and Transportation:

Don't forget to consider guest accommodations and transportation. The Howard County Conservancy, for instance, is conveniently located near several hotels, making it easy for your guests to find comfortable accommodations. Additionally, they can assist in coordinating transportation to and from the venue, ensuring a smooth experience for your loved ones.

Backup Plans:

While outdoor ceremonies and receptions in the midst of nature can be breathtaking, it is always wise to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Nature conservancies typically offer indoor options that can still provide a magical setting, even if Mother Nature has other plans.

Managing Guest Logistics:

Providing clear directions and transportation information to your guests will ensure they arrive at the venue without any issues. It may also be helpful to provide a map or a detailed description of the venue's location, especially if it is situated in a remote or less accessible area.

By considering these aspects of catering and vendor management, you can create a stress-free and unforgettable wedding experience at your chosen nature conservancy.

Backup plans for bad weather

Planning an outdoor wedding can be a stressful endeavour, especially when it comes to the weather. While you may dream of blue skies and sunshine, the reality could be very different. Having a backup plan is always a good idea, and there are many ways to prepare for bad weather on your wedding day. Here are some detailed suggestions to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch, even if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

• Get event insurance: Special event insurance exists to protect against financial losses due to bad weather. It covers everything from drizzle to full-on hail storms. Check with the insurance company about their accepted weather data range, and whether you need to hire an independent weather observer or pay a one-time fee to the nearest weather command.
• Have a second location ready: If your ceremony or reception is held indoors, you can ask the venue if you can host both parts there. Alternatively, you could borrow a friend's home or use your workplace as a unique venue.
• Prepare for rain: Bring clear umbrellas, raincoats, and hiking boots. Consider purchasing event tents to provide coverage from the elements.
• Adjust your menu: Serve hot drinks such as hot chocolate, tea, and spiked cider to warm up your guests.
• Communicate with your guests: Let your guests know about any changes to the venue or weather updates. You can mass text, call, or email, and add weather updates to your event website or invitations.
• Provide guest comforts: Hand out colour-coordinated blankets, umbrellas, or shawls as gifts. Stash extra hairdryers and disposable combs in the bathrooms for guests to refresh their hair if it gets wet.
• Plan ahead: Start thinking about a rain plan early on. When choosing a venue, ask the coordinator to walk you through their rain plan. Some venues may have indoor options or covered spaces.
• Be flexible: If the forecast predicts rain, consider adjusting the timeline of your event. Leave some wiggle room in your day-of timeline, as guests may take longer to arrive in bad weather.
• Work with your vendors: Discuss their bad weather policies and backup plans. Live performers and caterers may have limitations or cancellations in the case of severe weather.
• Protect your wedding attire: Weatherproof your wedding dress with a petticoat, a sheet to shield it from the grass, and a fabric protector spray. Consider purchasing rain boots for the bridesmaids.
• Transportation considerations: Work with your valet to ensure guests can get from their cars to the venue without getting wet. If the venue allows, position the valet as close to the entrance as possible.

Guest logistics and accommodation

Transportation:

It is essential to provide clear directions and transportation information to your guests. This will ensure their smooth arrival and departure from the venue. If the nature conservancy is located in a remote area, consider arranging shuttle services or providing detailed driving instructions, including GPS coordinates or a map.

Accommodation Options:

Nearby accommodation options are crucial for the comfort of your guests, especially if your event extends over multiple days. Research and recommend a range of options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, or vacation rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences. Block booking a certain number of rooms in nearby hotels can be a convenient option for your guests.

Accessibility:

When choosing a nature conservancy as your wedding venue, consider the accessibility needs of your guests. Ensure that the venue can accommodate individuals with limited mobility, including wheelchair users. This may include checking for paved pathways, ramps, and accessible restroom facilities.

Directional Signage:

To ensure your guests can easily navigate the venue, especially if it is a large conservancy, consider providing directional signage. This can include signs pointing towards different event areas, such as the ceremony site, cocktail hour location, and reception area.

On-Site Amenities:

Inquire about the on-site amenities available at the nature conservancy. This can include restroom facilities, a bridal suite or getting-ready room, and any catering facilities. If there are limited on-site amenities, you may need to rent portable restrooms or additional equipment.

Weather Contingency Plan:

It is always wise to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Confirm with the venue if there are indoor options available in case of rain or strong winds. This will ensure that your guests remain comfortable and that your event can proceed smoothly, regardless of the weather conditions.

By considering these guest logistics and accommodation tips, you can ensure that your wedding at a nature conservancy is not only memorable but also seamless and enjoyable for all your guests.

Customisation and decor

The Michigan Wildlife Conservancy in Bath, Michigan, is another venue that offers customisation options for your wedding. The covered outdoor deck reception area provides a unique setting with a gorgeous view of the lake. You can bring your own decor to personalise the space, such as fairy lights or hanging lanterns. The venue also includes a clear roof, allowing your guests to enjoy the beauty of nature while being protected from the elements.

When it comes to catering, both venues offer flexibility. The Howard County Conservancy works closely with their catering partners to provide a range of options, from formal sit-down dinners to casual buffet-style receptions. Similarly, the Michigan Wildlife Conservancy allows you to bring in your own caterer or choose from their preferred vendors. This flexibility ensures that you can customise the menu to suit your preferences and create a culinary experience that delights your guests.

In addition to the catering, you may also want to consider other services such as photography, florists, and entertainment. Both venues can provide recommendations for trusted vendors and additional services to ensure your wedding planning process is seamless. By choosing vendors who are familiar with the venue, you can rest assured that they will be able to provide exceptional service and bring your wedding vision to life.

Whether you choose the Howard County Conservancy or the Michigan Wildlife Conservancy, the natural surroundings and customisation options will create an unforgettable atmosphere for your wedding day. From the ceremony decor to the reception details, you have endless possibilities to reflect your unique style and taste.

Frequently asked questions