Junior Rasmussen
Planning a wedding can be a challenging task, and choosing a venue is one of the most important decisions to make. If you're an outdoorsy type, a park wedding could be a great option. With breathtaking scenery and plenty of space, parks offer a unique setting for your special day. From redwood forests to mountain views, there are many dramatic landscapes and backdrops to choose from. However, there are also some potential pitfalls to consider, such as bad weather and insect problems. In addition, most parks will require a permit and have limited parking available. Nevertheless, with careful planning and preparation, a park wedding can be an unforgettable experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | National parks such as Redwood, Grand Teton, Glacier, Zion, and Rocky Mountain are popular choices. |
| Cost | Permits range from free to $300, with some parks charging an additional location fee. The America the Beautiful annual national park pass costs $80. |
| Planning | Visit the park during the same season, day of the week, and time of day as your wedding to anticipate issues with pedestrian traffic, sun position, parking, restroom facilities, disruptive events, etc. |
| Regulations | Check if weddings are allowed and if there are any restrictions on the number of guests, decor, music, etc. |
| Permits | Obtain the necessary permits from the local parks department or the National Park Service. |
| Marriage license | Ensure you have a valid marriage license for the state where the wedding will take place. |
| Officiant | Confirm if your officiant is willing to perform the ceremony outdoors. Some members of the clergy only officiate weddings within a house of worship. |
| Catering | Consider catering services from a local restaurant or set up a buffet. Protect food and drinks from insects and other elements. |
| Activities | Provide lawn games, a photo booth, and other entertainment for guests. |
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What You'll Learn
- Permits and fees: Research the costs and permits required for your chosen park
- Location: Choose a scenic spot with good parking and minimal pedestrian traffic
- Catering: Opt for a local restaurant or an on-site buffet for your wedding food
- Cake: Protect your cake from insects and the elements with a tent or canopy
- Activities: Lawn games, photo booths and limbo are fun additions to a park wedding
Permits and fees: Research the costs and permits required for your chosen park
When it comes to permits and fees, the first step is to contact the park's administrative office to find out if weddings are allowed and what the specific regulations are. You will likely need a permit, issued by the local parks department, and it's important to understand what this permit does and does not allow you to do. For example, some permits may include the use of chairs and toilets, while others may not. It is also worth noting that some parks have cleanup stipulations and may charge fines for any garbage left behind.
Permits are usually issued free of charge, but there is often a small location fee. This fee varies depending on the type of park. For example, Roger di Silvestro, former senior director of communications for the National Parks Conservation Association, states that "National parks charge anywhere between $50 and $200". In contrast, state, city, and town parks typically have lower fees that vary depending on the location.
It is important to plan ahead and be aware of any potential hidden costs. For instance, if you wish to rent a tent or gazebo for your ceremony, you may need to obtain a separate permit and pay an additional fee. Additionally, if your chosen park is a popular wedding destination, there may be competition for dates and higher fees.
To secure your desired location and date, it is advisable to start the process early. Some parks may require a non-refundable application fee, and it is essential to review all the information and understand the refund policy before submitting your application.
Lastly, consider the impact of your wedding on the park and its regular users. If you wish to rent the entire park for the day, as some couples have done, you may need to factor this into your budget. Additionally, be mindful of any disruptions your wedding may cause to regular park activities and plan accordingly.
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Location: Choose a scenic spot with good parking and minimal pedestrian traffic
When choosing a park as your wedding venue, it's essential to select a location that offers both scenic beauty and practical considerations. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect spot:
First, look for a park with ample parking space. This is crucial, as many guests will likely be arriving by car, and you want to ensure they have a convenient and safe place to park. Consider the size of the parking lot and whether it can accommodate the expected number of guests. It is also important to research the parking situation in advance, as some parks may have limited parking or require special permits for parking.
Next, opt for a spot within the park that offers a picturesque backdrop for your ceremony. This could be a location with a stunning view, a beautiful body of water, majestic mountains, or unique natural formations. For example, Zion National Park offers epic red rock views and towering sandstone cliffs, while Glacier National Park is known for its pristine forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains. Consider what type of scenery you prefer and seek out parks that can offer that specific backdrop.
Additionally, try to choose a location with minimal pedestrian traffic. This will help create a more intimate setting for your wedding and ensure that you and your guests have enough privacy. Visit the park at the same time of day you plan to have your ceremony to assess the level of foot traffic. Consider paths near the wedding venue, and if they are popular walking routes, you may want to consider placing signage to inform passersby of the event and request their discretion.
When selecting your spot, also keep in mind the position of the sun to avoid squinting during the ceremony. Assess the availability of restrooms, as this is an important consideration for your guests. It is also wise to inquire about any other events taking place in the park during your chosen timeframe to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions.
Finally, don't forget to obtain the necessary permits and check for any regulations or restrictions. Each park will have its own rules and requirements, so be sure to contact the park's administrative office to gather all the necessary information. Some parks may require special use permits, while others may have specific guidelines for weddings, so it's essential to do your research beforehand.
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Catering: Opt for a local restaurant or an on-site buffet for your wedding food
Catering is an important aspect of your wedding, and there are a few options to consider when using a park as your venue. Firstly, you could opt for a local restaurant to provide catering services. This can be a great way to support a local business and offer your guests delicious food. Reach out to your favourite locally-owned restaurants to see if they cater to events and if they can accommodate your request.
Another option is to set up an on-site buffet. This can be a fun way to showcase your favourite local foods and give your guests a variety of options. You can source food from multiple local vendors, food trucks, or even set up a potluck-style buffet where each guest brings a dish. This option may require more coordination and preparation, but it can be a unique and memorable experience for your wedding.
If you're looking for a more traditional option, you can also research and hire professional caterers who specialise in wedding catering. They will be able to provide a full-service experience, including setup, service, and cleanup. This option may be more expensive, but it can take the stress out of planning and coordinating food for your wedding.
When planning your park wedding catering, it's important to consider the facilities available at the park. Some parks may have picnic areas, pavilions, or other designated spaces that can be used for catering and dining. Others may have restrictions on sound amplification and music or specific requirements for waste disposal. Be sure to communicate with the park staff and ask about any regulations or recommendations they may have.
Lastly, don't forget to plan for any necessary permits or licenses related to catering. Depending on your location and the type of food and beverage you plan to serve, you may need additional permits, especially if alcohol is involved. Research and obtain the necessary permits ahead of time to ensure your wedding day goes smoothly.
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Cake: Protect your cake from insects and the elements with a tent or canopy
If you're planning a wedding in a park, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your cake remains in perfect condition until it's time to cut and serve it. Here are some tips to protect your cake from insects and the elements:
Firstly, consider the location of your cake display. Placing the cake under a tent or canopy can provide shade and shelter from insects, especially if you opt for a netted canopy. This will also protect the cake from any unexpected weather changes, such as rain or strong winds. If the park has a pavilion, you could also utilise that space to keep the cake safe and sheltered.
Another option is to use a glass display case, which will not only protect the cake from insects and the weather but also add an elegant touch to your dessert presentation. If you decide to use a glass case, ensure it is well-ventilated to keep the cake fresh.
It is also important to be mindful of the time of year and day you choose for your wedding. Visiting the park beforehand, at the same time of day and year as your planned ceremony, will help you anticipate any potential issues with insects or weather conditions. This will enable you to make informed decisions about cake placement and the type of protection needed.
Additionally, consider the terrain of the park. Transporting a multi-tiered cake can be challenging on uneven ground, so you may opt for a cupcake display or a simpler cake design that is easier to manoeuvre.
By following these suggestions, you can help ensure that your wedding cake remains intact and insect-free, contributing to a memorable and enjoyable celebration in the beautiful outdoor setting of your chosen park.
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Activities: Lawn games, photo booths and limbo are fun additions to a park wedding
There are many fun activities you can plan for your wedding in a park to keep your guests entertained. Lawn games are a great way to get your guests mingling and having fun. Some lawn game ideas include a giant tower block game, where guests take turns removing blocks without knocking over the tower, or a game of bowling pins and footballs, where guests throw a football to try and knock down the pins. If you're looking for something a little different, Fowling or Kubb are great options, with the former being a combination of bowling and horseshoes that can be played with up to 12 people. You could even set up a simple lawn bowling game.
Photo booths are another fun addition to any wedding. They provide a creative way for guests to capture memories and can be easily rented from companies such as Lens Love Photobooth Co., Good Times Roll, Snapshoot Photobooth, ShutterBooth, and WildHearts, among others. Many of these companies offer unique photo booths, such as those fitted into vintage Volkswagen buses or with 360-degree cameras.
Limbo is yet another entertaining activity that can be easily adapted for a wedding in a park. It's a simple yet enjoyable game that can be played by guests of all ages and can be made even more festive with glow-in-the-dark accessories.
When planning your park wedding, it's important to keep in mind potential challenges such as bad weather and insects. It's also advisable to visit your desired location several times at the same time of day and day of the week as your planned ceremony to get a sense of pedestrian traffic and sun positioning. This will help you anticipate issues and plan accordingly.
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Frequently asked questions
Visit the park several times at the time of day and day of the week you plan to marry. Take note of pedestrian traffic, the position of the sun, restroom facilities, parking, and the possibility of disruptive events. Once you've found the perfect place, contact the park's administrative office to see if weddings are allowed, and whether you need to reserve the site or obtain a permit.
Most permits and location fees are affordable, and some parks are free. Permits can be free, but you'll probably have to pay a small location fee. National parks charge anywhere between $50 and $200, while state, city, and town parks have varying fees. You'll also need to factor in the cost of a marriage license and a National Park Pass.
Be mindful of the weather and insects. Check with park staff to see if there's anything they can do to help on the day, and ask about closing off paths. You'll also need to consider parking, especially if there's a hike to the ceremony location.
Lawn games like cornhole, giant Jenga, lawn bowling, croquet, Kerplunk, and ring toss are perfect for an outdoor wedding. You could also set up a photo booth with standing cut-outs, props, accessories, and costume pieces.
There are over 60 national parks to choose from in the US, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Zion National Park, Glacier National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Redwood National Park.
