Camping At Weddings: A Unique Guest Experience

Planning a camping wedding can be a unique and exciting way to celebrate your special day. From rustic cabins to glamorous bell tents, there are various options to accommodate your guests' comfort levels and create lasting memories. Whether you opt for a remote location or a camp-themed wedding, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's essential to choose a venue that can accommodate your guest list and offers the necessary amenities, such as accessible bathrooms and a suitable dance floor. Communicating expectations clearly to your guests is crucial, ensuring they are prepared for the outdoor setting and any potential weather conditions. While camping weddings can be more affordable, it's important to manage logistics effectively, including guest transportation, vendor coordination, and potential rental costs for tables and chairs. By embracing the simplicity of nature and adding personal touches, your camping wedding is sure to be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Guest logistics: Plan and map out how each guest will get to the venue and experience the location

Planning a campground wedding takes some creativity, especially when it comes to guest logistics. Here are some tips to help you map out how each guest will get to the venue and experience the location:

• Think tactically about the logistics of how people are entering, staying, and exiting the campground. Consider the different needs and preferences of your guests, from local guests who know the area well to those who are visiting for the first time. Make sure you have a clear plan for how each guest will get to the venue and navigate the campground once they arrive.
• Provide detailed directions to the campground and include a map of the area and the campground in your invitations or on your wedding website. Let guests know if they will be staying in tents, cabins, or nearby hotels, and give them an idea of how much of the wedding will be outdoors. If guests will be staying onsite, provide clear instructions on how to find their specific accommodations.
• Consider off-site locations for guests to stay if your venue has limited sleeping quarters. You can shuttle guests between the venue and off-site locations, but be sure to have a clear plan and schedule for transportation. Communicate this information to your guests in advance so they know what to expect.
• If you want guests to stay onsite, RVs and tents are great options. RVs can offer a more comfortable and glamorous experience, especially for older guests. Tents add an element of fun and authenticity, whether they are traditional camping tents or glamping bell tents with more amenities. If you choose tents, consider purchasing or renting them yourself and setting them up before guests arrive.
• Don't assume that the venue has enough restrooms to meet the needs of your guests. Check the number of restrooms and their condition, and consider bringing in portable luxury restrooms and showers if needed.
• Keep in mind that a campground wedding often involves coordinating sleeping arrangements, plotting tent layouts, and directing guests to their accommodations. Work with vendors or an event planner to help manage these logistics and take some tasks off your plate.
• Communicate key details to your guests in advance, such as suitable attire, specific instructions on how to get to their accommodations, and amenities available. Aim to send this information out 2-3 weeks before the wedding. During the event, have signs and greeters to direct guests around the venue and to their accommodations.

Set-up and break-down: Give yourself ample time to set up and break down the campsite

Setting up a campground wedding can be a daunting task, but with proper planning, it can be a memorable and unique experience for you and your guests. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth set-up and break-down process for your special day:

Set-up:

Give yourself ample time to set up the campsite by arriving a day early, if possible. This will allow you to troubleshoot any potential issues and ensure that everything is ready for your guests' arrival. If arriving a day early is not feasible, aim to set up camp as early as possible on the day of the wedding. Inform your guests about the expected arrival and set-up time to ensure they don't arrive before you're ready.

Break-down:

When planning the break-down of the campsite, consider the checkout time and how long it will take to dismantle everything. Communicate the checkout time to your guests and ensure they are aware of the importance of a timely departure. If possible, invest in additional time before and after the wedding day to feel calm and collected during the set-up and break-down process.

Additional Tips:

• If you're setting up complex structures like a dance floor or a large number of tents, consider seeking help from professionals or enlisting the support of your wedding party and guests.
• Create a detailed plan for the campsite layout, including the placement of tents, RVs, and other amenities. This will streamline the set-up process and ensure efficient use of space.
• If you're providing off-site accommodations, ensure you have a clear understanding of the locations and a well-communicated plan for transporting guests between the wedding venue and their accommodations.
• For RVs, consider the practical aspects like parking and accessibility, as well as any additional amenities you may want, such as bathrooms, showers, or kitchens.
• For tents, provide comfortable sleeping arrangements like cots or air mattresses, and ensure guests have adequate blankets or heating options if the temperature drops.

Remember, effective communication with your guests and vendors is key to a successful set-up and break-down process. By giving yourself ample time and staying organized, you can ensure that your campground wedding runs smoothly and creates lasting memories.

Sleeping arrangements: Provide a mix of sleeping options, such as off-site locations, RVs, and tents

If you're planning a camping wedding, you'll want to ensure your guests are comfortable and have a good night's sleep so they can enjoy the celebrations. Here are some tips for providing a mix of sleeping options, including off-site locations, RVs, and tents:

Off-Site Locations

If you're getting married at a campground, consider arranging shuttle services to nearby hotels or other off-site accommodations for your guests. This option is ideal for those who may not be comfortable with camping or prefer more privacy and modern amenities. Be sure to communicate the arrangements clearly to your guests, including transportation schedules and locations.

RVs

RVs offer a comfortable and practical option for guests who want the convenience of their own space. They can range from traditional to glamorous, with some featuring bathrooms, showers, sinks, and stoves. You can rent several RVs to create a community feel, and they are often popular with parents and grandparents. Just make sure to plan the logistics of their arrival and parking in advance.

Tents

Tents are a classic and fun option, whether your guests are dressed up or going casual. You can provide traditional 4-person tents or larger family-sized options. Furnish them with comfortable sleeping bags, cots, lanterns, and even bottles of wine. You can also suggest that guests bring their own tents if they prefer. For a touch of luxury, consider bell tent rentals, which offer more space and a magical backdrop for photos.

Mix and Match

Remember, you don't have to choose just one option. Feel free to mix and match sleeping arrangements to cater to different preferences and comfort levels. For example, you can offer a combination of off-site locations, RVs, and tents to give your guests a variety of choices. This way, everyone can find an option that suits their needs and ensures they have a pleasant stay during your wedding celebrations.

Bathroom situation: Ensure there are enough clean and comfortable restrooms for your guests

When it comes to the bathroom situation at your camping wedding, it's important to ensure that there are enough clean and comfortable restrooms for your guests. Here are some tips to consider:

• Check with the campground venue in advance about the bathroom facilities they provide. Some campgrounds may only have basic vault toilets, while others might offer more luxurious options such as portable luxury restrooms or showers. It's crucial to ensure these facilities are well-maintained and in a desirable condition for your guests.
• The number of restrooms should be adequate for your guest list. As a rule of thumb, plan for a minimum of 2-3 bathroom stalls to avoid long queues and ensure guest comfort.
• Stock the restrooms with essential items to meet your guests' needs. This can include items like extra toilet paper, hand soap or sanitiser, paper towels, air freshener, and any other amenities you think your guests would appreciate.
• Consider the accessibility needs of your guests. If you have guests with limited mobility or other special requirements, ensure that there are ADA-compliant restrooms available.
• If the campground bathrooms are a significant distance from the ceremony and reception areas, provide clear signage or maps to direct your guests to these facilities. You could also include this information in your invitations or wedding website to help guests prepare accordingly.
• For an extra touch of comfort, you could offer a separate glamping-style bathroom area for the bridal party and guests to freshen up, complete with vanity mirrors, comfortable seating, and any other amenities that would make them feel at home.

Guest communication: Keep guests informed about what to expect, including attire and specific instructions

When it comes to guest communication, it's important to keep everyone informed about what to expect, especially if you're planning a camping wedding. Here are some tips to ensure your guests are well-informed and prepared:

Invitations and Expectations:

• Be clear and detailed in your invitations. Let guests know what to expect in terms of activities, accommodation options, and any unique aspects of the venue.
• Tailor your guest list accordingly. Consider who would be comfortable with a camping wedding and be realistic about the number of guests you can accommodate.
• Provide thorough details about the venue, including directions, cell phone reception, and any relevant maps.
• Inform guests about the bathroom and shower situation. Be transparent about the number and type of restrooms available, and consider providing additional portable facilities if needed.

Attire and Packing Instructions:

• Communicate the dress code. Let guests know if they should wear comfortable and casual attire, and suggest practical footwear for navigating the campground.
• Inform guests about the weather and any potential extremes. Advise them to pack accordingly, and provide suggestions for dealing with heat, cold, or rain.
• Provide a packing list. Include items such as bug spray, flashlights, extra blankets, and anything specific to your venue or activities.

Specific Instructions:

• Give detailed instructions on how to reach their assigned accommodations, whether it's a specific tent, RV, or nearby hotel.
• If guests are staying in tents or RVs, provide instructions on what to bring or expect, such as sleeping bags, cots, lanterns, or other amenities.
• Inform guests about mealtimes and food options. Let them know if they need to bring their own food or if meals will be provided.
• Share an itinerary or schedule of events. This will help guests plan their time and know what to expect each day.

Remember, clear and timely communication is key. Aim to send out these details at least 2-3 weeks before the wedding. During the event, have signs, greeters, or a designated point of contact to direct guests and answer any questions.

Frequently asked questions