Imagine exchanging your vows amidst the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling festival, surrounded by the euphoric sounds of music and the scent of various street foods wafting through the air.
Marriage is a celebration, and what better way to herald your union than in a legendary festival like Glastonbury? This choice is undoubtedly unconventional, brimming with excitement, and promises a memorable experience. Though the concept is enchanting, like all wedding venues, it comes with its unique set of challenges and considerations.
The Charm of Festival Weddings
Hosting your wedding at a festival like Glastonbury brings a quirky and distinctive flavour to your special day. Picture saying ‘I do’ under the open sky with the spontaneous cheers of festival-goers as your soundtrack. Your love story becomes a spectacle for the arts, a celebration within a celebration. The eclectic decor, the spontaneous interactions with friendly strangers, and the expansive variety of entertainment options can make your wedding day genuinely one-of-a-kind.
With live bands playing in the background, your wedding takes on a spontaneous and lively mood, setting a tone that is hard to achieve in more traditional settings. Moreover, festivals are often a fusion of art, culture, and music, reflecting a rich and vibrant backdrop for your ceremony that’s steeped in exhilaration and artistry.
The Practical Pros of Festival I Do’s
One of the significant advantages of festival weddings is the built-in ambiance and entertainment. There’s no need to hire a DJ or a band – the festival lineup does the work for you. Also, decoration costs might be slashed significantly, as the unique and vivid surroundings of a festival provide a ready-made setting filled with character.
For the guests, the event is a double delight: they get to witness your marital union and enjoy the festivities of the festival. What’s more, the variety of food and drink vendors can offer a delectable assortment of choices that one might not encounter at a typical wedding reception.
The Cons: Not Always a Fairytale
However, the festival wedding is not without its drawbacks. Privacy will likely be the first casualty. Expect your guest list to be extended to include a few hundred (or thousand) additional festival-goers. While the sheer energy of the crowd can be exciting, it might also mean uninvited guests joining in your celebration or photobombing your memories.
Another potential issue is the weather. Without the shelter of a traditional venue, a sudden turn can soak guests and potentially ruin outdoor ceremonies or receptions. Festivals are rarely canceled due to rain, which means you, your betrothed, and your guests will have to be prepared to embrace the mud that festivals like Glastonbury are infamous for if the heavens do decide to open.
Accommodations can be another hiccup. While some festivals offer glamping options, or third-party luxury glamping sites like Ziggu Camp and Land & Sky Farm, not all guests may be comfortable with the idea of staying in tents, nor have the stamina for multiple days of festivities. Those with young children or with less inclination towards the rugged festival life may also find it arduous to partake in the full experience.
Logistical Labyrinths: Navigating the Festival Wedding Scene
The logistics of a festival wedding can be a mind-boggling labyrinth to navigate. The key is planning – and then planning some more. Consideration must be given to transport, accommodation, and the fluctuating dynamics of festival schedules.
The aspect of arranging transport is crucial. Festivals are often held in rural areas with limited accessibility. Organising how your guests will arrive and where they will stay requires meticulous attention to detail and clear communication.
Capturing the Moment: The Crucial Role of a Professional Photographer
In the whirlwind of festival moments, it’s imperative that the fleeting instances of joy, laughter, and love are captured professionally. Remember, the substantial crowds and the sheer scale of a festival event mean that a photographer will need to be a maestro at finding the best angles and moments amidst the chaos.
Renowned wedding photographer, Emma Seaney, say’s … securing a photographer should top your list of priorities if you are wishing for professional photos to be taken at your festival wedding. With this in mind, it’s crucial to book your photographer well in advance, as the best ones (like Emma) tend to get snapped up quickly, especially around festival seasons.
There’s also the often-overlooked but significant detail – ensuring that your photographer has a ticket to the event. Without this, there’s no way they can enter the festival grounds to document your day. Therefore, when booking your own tickets, she recommends simultaneously securing an extra one for your photographer (and any accommodation needed). Some festival organisers might offer special access or discounts for professional photographers, so be sure to explore this option with them.
Festival Weddings: Fun For The Adventurous or Whimsical Couple
The idea of marrying at a festival like Glastonbury is enchanting, eclectic, and certainly for the adventurous or more whimsical couple. The blend of music, art, and shared enjoyment creates a splendidly spontaneous environment. However, the challenges, from the unpredictability of weather to the complexities of logistics, highlight the necessity for thorough planning and the acceptance of the uncontrollable elements that come with the festival territory.
At the core, it’s about the partnership – two people ready to embark on life’s greatest adventure against the spirited backdrop of a festival. It speaks volumes about the couple’s personality and their desire to embrace life with open arms, where the journey is as joyful as the destination itself.
A wedding held at a festival is a vivid declaration of love – untraditional, rousing, and complete with both hurdles and triumphs. It’s the ultimate defiance of convention and a powerful affirmation of joy. So, let your heart lead the way and may your union be a continued celebration, as vibrant and enduring as the festival where it all began.
