8 | Lee Enterprises - Western Region Bridal Guide 2025
Creative and unique options for your wedding and reception venues. Think Outside the Box
FREEPIK ©
ADOBESTOCK ©
ADOBE STOCK ©
GREEN SHOOT MEDIA And because it sets the tone for so much of the ceremony or reception, it’s an important one. Before landing on a specific venue, think about how the day will unfold. Will you want the ceremony and reception in the same location? Will you be allowed to design and decorate the space the way that you want? Is the cost of the venue within your budget? These are all critical questions that can help you narrow down your choices to a select few. Here are some venues you may not have considered for your big day. LOCAL PARKS City, state and national parks often offer some stunning backdrops for your wedding, your reception or both. Visit the park several times before your big day, if you can, and make note of how busy the park is and the position of the sun. You don’t want your guests squinting to see you in the afternoon glare, nor do you want them peering into the gloom of a forest glade. Also make notes about the park’s facilities. Is there plenty of parking? Bathroom access? Does it also have sports fields or other activities that may be in use the day of your wedding? Once you have a few potential spots picked out, reach out the to city, state or
federal department responsible for that park. Make sure they allow weddings, fill out any necessary paperwork, pay the fees and make sure you get a copy of the rules (there are going to be rules). Look for any restrictions on the number of guests, chairs, toilets, cleanup and more. WINERIES AND BREWERIES These venues may have an event space that they are happy to let you use for your ceremony, your reception or both. For a fee, of course, but you may also get plenty of booze to use, too. Either location lends itself to plenty of décor ideas, menus and, of course, cocktails. Also ask if the grounds will be available to you for photo shoots before your big day. Vineyards, in particular, have a striking natural backdrop that your photographer will be happy to make use of. Just like with any other venue, ensure you know the local rules for holding a wedding at the winery or brewery; the event planner at the venue should be able to help you. Also talk to your vendors about the setup at the location and, if possible, meet them there beforehand. GARDENS Botanical gardens, arboretums and other natural settings make stunning venues, even in the fall. The key to pulling
off these weddings is to let the natural landscape carry most the weight of décor and florals. Talk to your florist about more subtle arrangements to make the most of your setting. Because many of these spaces are exclusively outdoors, you should have a Plan B should the weather go south. Ask the venue what they suggest; they may have a pavilion or other space that can give you shelter. Vintage farms. Thinking rustic? Consider a local country farm for your venue. These venues combine the best of both worlds – classic outdoor beauty and reclaimed barns. Many vintage farms offer plenty of space for a large guest list. You’ll also be supporting local farmers, as many have found ways to host events tosupplement their regular revenue streams. HISTORIC HOTELS For a more intimate setting in fall, small historic inns, lodges and hotels can help whisk you and your guests away to a simpler, more understated time that is equal parts charm and nostalgia. LARGE ESTATES You likely have one of these restored mansions in your neck of the woods, and they create an idyllic setting for a unique indoors ceremony or reception.
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker