No dancing at reception, venue limit

seacatch

Hi, 

We have been trying to think of venues for the ceremony and reception and really like the idea of having both at the same place. One place that we love and get excited about is the zoo (Woodland Park in Seattle). One limitation with this venue is that there cannot be amplified music in many of the locations due to the animals (completely understandable and we respect that). They said that some music, perhaps 90db or less, could be allowed in some that are more open air. There are two places within the park, both indoors, that can have amplified music, but we are not in love with those. We would really like to have the reception outdoor and near the animals, we have two areas in particular that would be awesome.

Would people be upset with no dancing or rowdy party? Many might bring their young children (mostly 6 and under) so perhaps they were not looking to completely cut loose, though kids love dancing. Would the ability to wine and dine near the animals be enough for people? It is our event but we are paying to have people come to it so I want them to have a good time and make me feel like it was worth it to pay for rental, catering, etc.

Thanks!

seacatch

oops, not 90 db, don't know where that came from. I meant to say the level of an acoustic guitar or harp playing. Soft and tranquil. 

Wheels987

Would you have other activities? My mom told me about a wedding she went to where they had a ton of different games--casino type games, lawn games, etc. Would that work?

OH! And... where is everyone coming from? Is this a local wedding? What time are you thinking? If I had to drive 30 minutes for a ceremony, food, and some cool games then bounce a few hours later I would totally be cool with this. If I had to drive more than 2 hours to go just for some quiet mingling I'd probably leave after an hour or so and meet up with other people to party.

mlg78

I volunteer as an event coordinator for a non profit and the last two years we have had our main event at the zoo. You need to realize that most of the animals won't even be out when your event is going on... And knowing that would likely change my opinion on whether to have it there if the animals won't even be out...

LuckyGirl1713

While looking at animals at the zoo is fun I wouldn't want to do it at a wedding. If I bought a fancy dress got a nice gift drove to a ceremony and then a reception I would expect some kind of party. I probably wouldnt stay at this type of event very long. But that is my opinion.

MuppetOverlord

I'd be totally thrilled to go to a wedding at a Zoo....that's very different. Especially if we were able to walk around the zoo. I think it could be given a formal feel.

I'd be disappointed if I saw no animals though, might want to check with them about that.

loca4pook

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/wedding-boards_reception-ideas_no-dancing-at-reception-venue-limit?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Wedding BoardsForum:5Discussion:d4b4df4c-77cf-4ff0-8ca7-db5a89c81f1bPost:f3d38253-ab18-433b-b09c-98a7e2b13cee">No dancing at reception, venue limit</a>:
[QUOTE]Hi,  We have been trying to think of venues for the ceremony and reception and really like the idea of having both at the same place. One place that we love and get excited about is the zoo (Woodland Park in Seattle). One limitation with this venue is that there cannot be amplified music in many of the locations due to the animals (completely understandable and we respect that). They said that some music, perhaps 90db or less, could be allowed in some that are more open air. There are two places within the park, both indoors, that can have amplified music, but we are not in love with those. We would really like to have the reception outdoor and near the animals, we have two areas in particular that would be awesome. Would people be upset with no dancing or rowdy party? Many might bring their young children (mostly 6 and under) so perhaps they were not looking to completely cut loose, though kids love dancing. Would the ability to wine and dine near the animals be enough for people? It is our event but we are paying to have people come to it so I want them to have a good time and make me feel like it was worth it to pay for rental, catering, etc. Thanks!
Posted by seacatch[/QUOTE]

I think it would be fine, but weddings without dancing are usually shorter in length...people might leave right after dinner...

mrsbobfilson

i personally would not have a danceless reception,just my humble opinion.i am also not having children.

mlg78

People also don't tend to stay long at a danceless reception...

MrsGandthebeag

Will it be stinky at an outdoor reception with animals nearby?  I'd go with the indoor place and have the dancing.  

Jen4948

Are any guests coming with allergies to animals?