- BY Randy Stratton
- IN Wedding Officiants
Posted On: 27th of June 2024
Most recently, I had the honour of officiating two weddings in public parks. Each was very different in terms of location and participants. Both ceremonies were in Mississauga. In fact, one wedding had 20 attendees, including the groom's grandmother. The ceremony was conducted on a pathway under beautiful trees.
Both were wonderful, simple and very casual. Options after the ceremony can include a home backyard gathering or a restaurant reception to keep the happy occasion going.
Here are the 6 things you should consider when planning an Outdoor Wedding in a public park.
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Have a backup plan in case of rain. Plan it close to home if possible.
- Choose a spot that has a little privacy, but do expect a few interested “passers-by.”
- Make sure the ceremony site is easily accessible and is a little shady.
- In the case where no park benches are close by, bring a small portable table to sign the Wedding License.
- Bring a Wireless Bluetooth Speaker for background music during the ceremony. Or if you are near water, don’t use the speaker at all and let nature be the soundtrack of your wedding ceremony.
- If the ceremony is short and has minimal guests, then there should be no need for any specific requirements, i.e. permits, reservation fees, or restrictions associated with park weddings or gatherings. Just in case, check with the local authorities to make sure there are no legal requirements. Keep in mind there are definitely no alcoholic beverages allowed in public parks. Instead, bring a cooler with bottled water or pop, especially if it is a hot day.
Park Weddings are peaceful, casual, fun, easy and no fuss. Nature can be the canvas and beautiful backdrop for a wonderful ceremony! The City of Mississauga has over five hundred parks and green spaces from which you can choose. Many parks have beautiful natural settings, such as gardens, lakes, or forests. This can provide a stunning and unique backdrop for your wedding ceremony and photos.
Randy Stratton Can Officiate Your Wedding
When hiring an officiant for your civil wedding or religious/spiritual wedding, consider Randy Stratton. As a licensed wedding officiant, he creates unique and personalized ceremonies with a light, casual, and refreshing approach. While also a pastor for the Be In Christ Church of Canada, Randy creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere no matter what the request.
If you want your wedding ceremony to be relaxing, enjoyable and definitely memorable, contact Randy Stratton. To schedule an appointment, call (416) 970-2900.
