Did Someone Say Summer Camp Wedding?

Written by Nicole Fauls, Owner, Urban Allure Events & CHI thee WED


Are you dreaming of a wedding filled with nature, adventure, and cherished moments spent with your favorite people? Look no further than a summer camp wedding! It's a unique and memorable experience that allows couples and their guests to celebrate not just for a day but an ENTIRE WEEKEND. However, there are certain logistics and considerations that differ from traditional wedding venues. I wanted to share some pros and cons of planning a summer camp wedding and how hiring a planner can help ensure everything runs smoothly.

The Perks:

Intimate Weekend Celebration:

A summer camp wedding offers an extended celebration, allowing guests to bond and connect over the course of the weekend through time spent and activities. By the time the wedding day arrives, everyone will be friends, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. 

Natural Beauty and Charm:

With a summer camp wedding, you can exchange vows in the midst of breathtaking natural beauty and not spend as much on traditional wedding decor. The charm of the surroundings adds a unique touch to the overall ambiance, making your special day truly magical and unlike anyone else's. 

Personalization:

Camp venues often provide ample space to create a personalized experience. Couples can customize the decor and activities, making the event a true reflection of their personalities and interests.

Outdoor Activities & Laid Back Vibes:

Embrace the outdoors by offering a range of fun activities for guests. From campfires and stargazing to hiking and canoeing, a summer camp wedding encourages guests to unwind and immerse themselves in nature. Our favorite is a partner vs. partner game (such as softball) where both sides play against each other!

Activities aren’t your thing - how about a boat ride or just laying in a field?

Challenges:

Logistics and Planning:

One of the significant challenges of a summer camp wedding is handling logistics. Couples need to inquire about essential amenities, such as restrooms, bedding, electricity, and water supply and if necessary tenting. Arrangements for generators and waste disposal should be made in advance and can add to your budget! 

If you are having everyone stay on site make sure you are also thinking about how you are handling ALL meals, snacks, and beverages not just for wedding day but for the weekend entirely. 

Guest transportation is another big thing to consider - how close is the nearest airport, is public transportation an option? Do you need to budget for shuttles?

Staffing and Services:

Unlike traditional venues that come with staff to assist with setups, catering, and other services, summer camps may not have the same level of support. Couples may need to source external vendors or have added costs for setup and staffing.

Weather Uncertainty:

While summer is generally a pleasant time for outdoor weddings, it comes with the risk of unpredictable weather. Couples must have backup plans in case of rain or extreme heat to ensure the comfort of their guests and that the party can go on as planned.

Liability and Insurance:

Summer camps may not typically host events with alcohol, so couples need to ensure they have the necessary liability insurance in place. This will protect them from any potential incidents during the celebration and are usually a big requirement at these venues.

Partner with a Planner:

Does a summer camp wedding still sound like your dream? Partnering with a skilled planner is SO IMPORTANT. You want them to be familiar with the intricacies of camp venues, the vendors needed and the many logistics that will need to be handled. They will ensure everything runs smoothly, allowing you and your partner to relax and fully enjoy planning and your celebration.

With the assistance of a dedicated and experienced planner, couples can turn their dream summer camp wedding into a reality, creating an unforgettable celebration that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Here are a few of our favorite summer camp venues:

Interested in learning more? Contact Urban Allure Events today! 

Tips & Tricks, Camp, Summer Camp, unique, Nature, Outdoors, RelaxedMichelle CoxUrban Allure Events