The Location

Total cost: $100

A few years ago after a fall excursion to the coast, Nathan and I took a side trip to an old growth trail attached to Clay Creek Campground. I didn't know at the time that it would be the location of our own fall wedding. Of course, I must admit that in a back corner of my mind, I did comment silently that leaves falling on the bridge to the trail would be a beautiful spot for a wedding photo.

Today, myself, Nathan, and our fearless wedding planners (my mother, my aunt and uncle) took the hour drive out to see the site, count parking spaces, picnic tables, and figure out how to have a classy wedding at a campground with no electricity. Despite the intermittent rain, I still found it to be a beautiful spot in which to be married. (Thank goodness.)

We have reserved the two picnic shelters that are adjoined by a baseball field (more of a meadow really) that I think would be a perfect spot for bocce ball, croquet, and badminton. The site has its own horseshoes courts. And, if it does rain, the picnic shelters have enormous stone fireplaces to keep us toasty while we toast and play Scrabble.

There is a sandy beach with bleacher style seating that seems to be the obvious spot for the ceremony. There is even a waterfall playing in the background which means of course, we'll have to speak up. Yet, the river will have less of a flow by the fall and may not be as raucous. I like that I get to make an entrance down a staircase...yes, I do like a bit of drama.

I am excited that all agree (even through the rain) that it will be a lovely spot.