Choosing a wedding venue is usually the first order of business when it comes to planning your wedding. It may also be one of your biggest expenses. Your venue choice may factor into the date, time, and size of your wedding, and some venues will even dictate which vendors you can use. On top of that, venues raise their prices during peak wedding season, which could make it hard for many couples to afford. Luckily there are alternative options, like save money by getting married in a public place.
A public wedding isn’t for everyone, but for couples on a tight budget, it may offer the perfect setting at a very affordable price. Like any venue, public spaces have their pros and cons.
Pros:
- Many public spaces feature beautiful landscapes with lots of space
- Some even have buildings on-site that can be rented for a small fee
- Cost: Public spaces are often free and require only a reservations. Some charge a small rental fee, usually not exceeding a few hundred dollars
Cons:
- Other people – since the venue is a public space, you will have other people in the area, and maybe a few extra “guests” watching your wedding
- You’ll have to abide by the rules and regulations of the location. Some public spaces will not allow decorations or alcoholic beverages
- Many public spaces don’t offer a backup location in the event of rain. Plan accordingly
Here are some public places to consider:National/State/Local Parks – many parks have gorgeous natural scenery, which means you won;t have to spend a fortune on decorations. Many parks also have outdoor spaces like gazebos or pavilions that make excellent wedding spots. You will likely need a permit or reservation to book a park location.
Historic Sites and Public Buildings – Many cities have historic locations or public buildings that are managed by the county or state. Usually these facilities can be rented for a small fee.
Beaches – beach weddings are popular in the warmer months, and they are usually free. Just check to see if you need a permit to use the location beforehand.
Public Universities – With large campuses and plenty of event space, a public university may be the perfect venue for your wedding. Many universities rent space for private events. You may want to set the date during summer months, or holiday breaks when classes aren’t in session.
Public gardens – Many cities and towns have public gardens with gorgeous landscapes. These locations are well maintained and can usually be reserved for a small fee.
