I have been planning a beach wedding for a few months, but it looks like our guest list is getting too big for our budget there. I'm looking into alternatives and have found an alternate reception venue, but I'm having a brain-block when it comes to the ceremony site. I was wondering if I had my reception in downtown Portland, do you guys know of any places within driving distance that is a nice outdoors place/park for an untraditional bride? I'm looking for a place that could seat 200-250 (i'll rent chairs, if nessecary), preferably has A LOT of shade (my date is August 14 2010 and I'm a redhead), and wouldn't be high traffic on a Saturday. Your suggestions are highly appreciated, I grew up in Salem and feel like I know a lot of parks around there and South, but not here, and I am quite bummed about the beach not working out, hoping I can find a sweet spot to take my mind off the disappointment...
-Kelly