You fall head over heels in love and now want to spend the rest of your lives together. You have picked up every bridal magazine and scanned Pinterest wedding boards for weeks so that you can't see straight. But you are so excited for this special day to arrive when you too can tie the knot.

But looking a little bit closer you are a bit intimidated as you see that weddings are big business, and the average wedding in America costs about $26,720.00. You think this is supposed to be about happiness, our new life together, not getting into financial debt.

The Bride shouldn't be stressed-out as she prepares for the biggest day of her life

Photo Credit Lauren Simmons Photography

According to The Knot's wedding report, the biggest expense is the venue, catering and rentals. Maybe not what some of us would have guessed, we thought that the wedding attire, the rings, the band and the decorations and flowers would cost the most. 

But there is good news. 

If I had to do it all over again, or to plan a wedding for one of my daughters, knowing now what I know, I would choose a Virginia State Park. Not only do they provide a lovely setting, you can also do what you want, and how you want it. You can cater, you can set up and decorate. The style is all your own. And they aren't in it to make a profit, so the venue rates are reasonable.

This series will focus on Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) at our Virginia State Parks. Part 7 asks the question "Can I have my wedding at a Virginia State Park?" I will answer this question and then give a little insight into making a romantic event that you will cherish always.

Love is in the air at First Landing State Park

Photo Credit Caitlin Gerres Photography

An elegant outdoor setting at Grayson Highlands State Park

Photo credit Holly Cromer Photography

Chairs decorated for friends and family to gather for the joyous occasion

Photo credit Holly Cromer Photography

 A lovely affair at Chippokes State Park

Photo Credit Lauren Simmons Photography

Yes you can! Special events are permitted at state parks, and that includes weddings. In fact we are honored that you would consider spending the most important day of your lives with us.  

Please start any plans with a phone call to the park to check on special details and arrangements, and to learn about any requirements or restrictions. Most weddings will require a special use permit that outlines expectations and requirements. But it isn't complicated.

From a romantic intimate wedding along a lakeshore or for an elaborate outdoor event with a big tent and live entertainment for your reception, Virginia State Parks offer a variety of wedding venues and services. 

Reception celebration at Fayerdale Hall in Fairy Stone State Park

Photo Credit Natalie Gibbs Photography

All of your favorite people are here to celebrate your love

Photo Credit Lauren Simmons Photography  

Because we aren't in the big business of weddings, we just don't have a ton of resources dedicated to showcasing state park weddings. We want you to visit the park and ask questions. Be mindful that venues may be reserved or occupied when you visit, so plan ahead to be sure you can see everything you want to see. You don't want to be a "wedding crasher."

STEPS TO A FABULOUS PARK WEDDING

1. Check out our Wedding Board on Pinterest here. 
2. Click here to see Virginia State Park's wedding information.
3. Consider which park you are interested in, and schedule a visit.
4. Call 800-933-7275 to inquire further.

ELOPE

Did you know you can elope at a Virginia State Park without renting a venue? If you are interested in being married along the river's edge at sunset, or a scenic mountain overlook and want it to be just about the two of you, then you can. You just need to pick your park, hire an officiant, go get your wedding license at any Virginia Courthouse, hire a photographer and get the special use permit. It is required. The permit includes photography taken by a professional photographer or commercial photography at parks, where a fee is charged for the photo session or photography taken to be used in marketing materials or to sell.

To save even more you can have friends or family photograph the event. 

Cabin 2 at Hungry Mother State Park is a one-room love-shack

Nicknamed the Honeymoon cabin

If you want to spend your wedding night in the park, rent a cozy park cabin. There are a few efficiency cabins that are nicknamed "honeymoon cabins." They are cozy one-room cabins with the fireplace nearly at the foot of the bed. But there are hundreds more that would make a special place to begin your new life together.

BONUS

Add another element: If you want to rent a lodge and have the family bring the wedding cake and party favors, there is inside and outside space to celebrate your love. You can also make the meals right there in the lodge and celebrate the newlyweds.

When you rent a lodge you would also have it for your bridal suite as a place for the bride and her maids to get ready for the special occasion.

COST CUTTER

Midweek park venue rates are heavily discounted. If you aren't planning a huge wedding with out of town guests, then this may be a good way to save $ and have your dream wedding. You can have fun when the sun goes down. Call 800-933-7275. 

Reserve a lodge for the wedding party and family to use before and after the ceremony

Photo Credit Craig Spiering Photography