Planning a Camp Wedding or Event?
So, you want your wedding to be different, fun, not just a wedding weekend but a place you and your guest can relax, enjoy and experience something new. Not to mention something you and your guests can talk about for years to come! Finding the right venue is the key what a better place then at a Camp setting! It could be a Boys/Girls camp, or a campground, oh the fun you will have! You have the lodging, the hall, the activities, what else do you need? Trust me there are many things you may not be thinking about. Here are a few things to consider when hosting a wedding/Event at a Camp.
Take Care of Your Guests
Your guests are rock stars for making the trip to the camp, so give them the goodies they deserve (and need!). Greet guests with a welcome bag in their rooms filled with local treats, campsite maps, daily itineraries and local areas to visit. And seeing as the nearest pharmacy might be miles away, this isn’t the time to skimp on necessities. Make sure every room and restroom is stocked with soaps, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bug spray, sunscreen and allergy medication—better safe than sorry. And if you’re in a climate that gets chilly at night, always have cozy blankets and throws at the ready.
Budget for Camp Extras
Since your campsite is most likely not a full-service wedding venue, factor additional expenses into your budget like party rentals, proper lighting, linens, tableware, suitable restrooms and additional lodging (in case the camp can’t sleep everyone, or you don’t want your grandparents cramped in bunk beds). If you do block extra rooms nearby, don’t forget transportation to shuttle guests to and from the camp and something you probably haven’t thought of? Hiring a lifeguards/activity director—you’ll want a certified pro on duty during any activities involving water (especially if drinks are flowing).
Accessibility
If your Camp doesn’t have a vendor list, or they do, but you want to go with someone else make sure your vendors are familiar with the venue and setting, along with what they will need to supply before booking. You could be looking at increased labor costs for rentals and catering. Caterers may need extra generators, cooks’ tents, Linens, tableware etc. Find out exactly what’s included from not only the camp but the caterers.
Signage
Camps are big and can be overwhelming especially if you have activities involved, along with different locations for ceremony, cocktail hour etc. Yes, you will have a map BUT your guests will not be carrying around all weekend.
Hiring a Wedding Planner/Coordinator
I’m sure your thinking “we got this; we have a few days before to start setting up it’s all good!” In a perfect world, sure, in reality not so much. How will you be in charge, checking in the vendors, making sure everything and everyone is on time? Having the extra set of eyes, someone who knows the property and can direct the vendors, answer technical questions, set up the décor, tables chairs, etc. Be there greeting the guests and helping them find their way to their cabin. While they are doing all this, you can be enjoying the camp, activities, your guests and most of all relaxing and having fun!
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