Thinking about getting married at your favorite city park? Here are 6 things you should have in mind before you walk down the aisle:

1 – Plan Ahead

When it comes to most public park permits, the city requires that the permits be obtained anywhere from 30-60 days in advance. This means that although you may want to run away and get married this weekend, getting married last minute at park may not be an option. However, no need to fret…we have some other amazing venues nearby that might accommodate last minute bookings! You can see some of these locations on our website.

2 – Ceremony Time

Deciding on your wedding date is a huge step, but picking the time of day your ceremony is going to happen is just as important! If you are looking for the best natural lighting for photos, our photographers will say that Golden Hour is the best option for you! Golden Hour is the 90 minutes directly following sunrise or directly before the sun sets. Not an early riser nor wanting a late evening ceremony? Our photographers are AMAZINGGGG at what they do and can professionally and beautifully capture your ceremony no matter what time of day. 

3 – Location, Location, Location

Most cities offer a wide variety of parks that can be reserved for your special event! Be sure to research which location is best for you and your overall wants. Before making the final decision on a location, consider accessibility for you and your guests, proximity to hotels, type of location, and your overall wants for your wedding. 

4 – Plan for the Land!

When we say plan for the land, we simply mean plan with your wedding location in mind. We can’t stress it enough that you dress accordingly. Typically park locations will be an entirely outdoor ceremony. Consider ditching the heels, wearing lightweight breathable attire, and rocking a cute updo so the wind and heat don’t take over your focus on your special wedding day. Don’t forget to hydrate throughout the day 🙂

5 – Have Backup Plan In Place

You might be wondering what the biggest difference is between a park permit and a venue. In most cases the answer is simple: a backup space. When it comes to park permits, what you see is what you get. Backup spaces are not included in the permit, so if inclement weather were to pop up you need to have a backup plan in place just in case! Don’t let ‘no backup space’ keep you from eloping at a beautiful park. As your planners, we can assist in making sure your day runs smoothly and all ‘what-ifs’ are answered!

6 – Celebrate! 

You are getting married and that’s something huge to celebrate! Enjoy each and every second, from the planning process to the day of the wedding! Y’all will look gorgeous, your location will be perfect, and the photos will be stunning! 

Photography: Ashley Izquierdo

VENDORS

Coordinator & Permit: Elope Tampa Bay

Officiant: Chris Thomas

Photographer: Ashley Izquierdo

Venue Permit: City of St. Petersburg

Florals: Wonderland Floral