7 Tips for Planning a Golf Course Wedding Ceremony
When planning a wedding ceremony, the ideal backdrop should be something you are both interested in. For example, choose the beach if you are into a simple, minimalist wedding. Or a golf course wedding, if you are both avid golf players.
It's a unique and picturesque setting and combines nature's elegance with the charm of the golf game. Planning a wedding on a golf course can be a thrilling experience, but it comes with its own set of considerations.
In this article, we'll explore seven tips to help you plan a seamless and memorable wedding ceremony on a golf course, ensuring that your special day is as enchanting as the surroundings.
1. Choose the Perfect Location
The first and foremost decision when planning a golf course wedding is selecting the ideal location on the course. Many golf courses offer dedicated event spaces with scenic views, lush greenery, and sometimes even waterfront options.
Make sure to visit the golf course and look at the various locations on-site to see which one suits your needs best. You can even ask the golf course to show you pictures of what the ceremony looks like when set up in different spots. They can give you a visual representation of your ceremony.
Consider the time of day for your ceremony to take advantage of the natural light and the unique atmosphere that different times of the day can provide. Visit both during the day and at night to see how the golf course setting changes.
2. Coordinate With the Golf Course Staff
Effective communication with the golf course staff is key to a successful wedding ceremony. From securing the venue to understanding any restrictions or guidelines, maintaining open lines of communication will help you navigate the logistics smoothly.
Discuss details such as guest parking, accessibility for elderly or disabled guests, and any specific rules regarding decorations or setup.
For example, at Pipestone Golf Course, the staff can set up a cocktail hour for your guests. While the newlyweds prepare for the wedding party, the staff will serve exquisite Hors D'oeuvres and specialty cocktails to the guests. This way everyone is still entertained.
You want to find a golf course that's very good about staying in touch with you and answering your questions, no matter how many you have. What you don't want is a golf course location that never answers your calls and leaves you to handle everything on your own without enough information. That would be a disaster waiting to happen.
3. Embrace the Golf Theme
Since you've chosen a golf course as your wedding venue, consider incorporating subtle golf-themed elements into your ceremony. This could include golf-inspired décor, such as golf ball centerpieces, golf club boutonnieres, or even golf-themed wedding favors.
You can even have your invitations have a golf motif on them. Maybe you could ask your guests to dress up in their best golf outfits when coming for the ceremony and afterparty. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you, so you want to make sure it is aligned with your wants and desires.
Embracing the theme can add a touch of personalization and make your ceremony uniquely tied to the best venue.
4. Weather-Proof Your Plan
Outdoor weddings are enchanting, but the weather can be unpredictable. Have a solid contingency plan in case of rain or unexpected weather changes.
Many golf courses offer indoor event spaces as well, so discuss backup options with the venue staff. They might even provide tents for when the weather turns rainy or cold.
Additionally, consider providing weather-appropriate amenities for guests, such as parasols for shade or blankets, if the evening turns chilly. Hire a planner if taking care of all these eventualities is too much for you.
5. Mind the Golfers
Remember that the golf course is a public space, and there may be golfers enjoying a round during your ceremony. Coordinate with the golf course staff to schedule your ceremony at a time that minimizes disruptions.
Inform your guests about the golfing event. Kindly request their cooperation in keeping noise levels to a minimum during the ceremony.
6. Dress Comfortably and Appropriately
Golf courses often feature well-manicured lawns and open spaces, so consider the terrain when choosing your wedding attire. Opt for comfortable footwear, especially if you'll be walking on grass.
Brides may choose lighter, flowy dresses, while grooms can explore more casual or breathable attire. Inform your guests about the outdoor setting so they can dress appropriately as well.
When alcohol gets involved, walking through the course on grass and mud gets even more precarious and requires proper pre-planning. If you pay attention to these small things, the bigger picture will be even more successful.
7. Capture the Scenic Beauty
One of the perks of a golf course wedding is the stunning natural backdrop. Work with your photographer to capture the scenic beauty of the golf course in your wedding photos.
Explore different spots on the course for unique and memorable shots, such as near water features, among the trees, or with the golf course landscape as a panoramic background.
For example, at Pipestone Golf Course, you are going to want to take lots of pictures of the newlyweds on the property's rolling foothills and sprawling Chestnut Oaks. The words 'magical' and 'romantic' don't even do justice to it.
You can even use the golf carts that are readily available to easily go from one end of the golf course to another to take all the pictures that you want.
Choose a Golf Course Wedding at the Best Venue
You are only planning on getting married once, so you want to choose a theme that truly speaks to your heart. A golf course wedding does take a bit of extra consideration, but it's well worth it.
Pipestone Golf Course has been holding weddings for couples for 30 years now, so we have seen and done it all. We will work with you to create the perfect ambiance for your guests.
Set up a consultation with us today so we can begin your magical journey right.