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A place for an outdoor church wedding: by the sea, a lake or in a forest

How to choose a place for an outdoor church wedding in Pomerania, Poland. We compare the sea, a lake, a forest and a garden, and suggest what to ask the venue.

Places3 min read

Altar on a jetty by a lake

The place is the first decision, and the rest of the ceremony depends on it: the time, the decorations, the sound and the plan in case of rain. Below we have gathered what we pay attention to when we choose an outdoor setting in Pomerania together with a couple.

By the sea

A terrace, a cliff or a garden overlooking the Baltic is the most spectacular setting. Vows with the sea in the background look beautiful in photos and stay in the guests' memory.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Wind. By the sea there is almost always a breeze. The veil, the flowers on the altar and light fabrics need to be fixed well, and the microphones need wind shields.
  • Sun. In the afternoon the sun can be harsh. It is worth placing the altar so that the guests and the couple are not looking straight into the light.
  • Permission. On the grounds of a hotel or venue, the owner’s consent is enough. The beach and public land need the consent of whoever manages the area.

By a lake

Kashubia offers a huge choice: jetties, gentle shores, gardens running down to the water. By a lake it is usually calmer than by the sea, and the water reflects the evening light beautifully.

Things to keep in mind:

  • The jetty. An altar on a jetty is impressive, but check how many people and how much equipment it can hold, and whether it is stable.
  • Mosquitoes. By the water, especially in the evening, it is worth having insect repellent ready for the guests.
  • Getting there. Many lakeside venues are far from main roads. Check the access for older guests and for suppliers.

In the forest

A forest clearing or a wooden chapel among the trees gives the ceremony an intimate, quiet character. The trees give shade and shelter from the wind.

Things to keep in mind:

  • The ground. Heels sink into grass and the forest floor. A carpet or a wooden path leading to the altar helps.
  • Light. A dense forest can be darker than you expect. Ask your photographer about the time of day.

In the garden of a wedding venue

The garden of a manor house, a hotel or a wedding hall is the most convenient option. After the ceremony the guests walk a few steps to the reception, and the venue has electricity, toilets and cover in case of rain.

A plan B for rain

The weather by the sea and the lakes cannot be predicted. That is why we agree a plan B when we choose the place. It can be a tent, a shelter, a covered terrace or a hall at the same venue. The most important thing is that it is ready and prepared as carefully as the outdoor setting.

What to ask before you book a place

  1. Does the venue allow a religious ceremony on its grounds?
  2. Where exactly will the altar stand, and how many seats will fit?
  3. Is there electricity for the sound system?
  4. What is the plan in case of rain, and is it included in the price?
  5. From what time can the decorations be set up?

We will help you choose

If you do not have a place yet, we will suggest where to look. See what our ceremonies looked like in the gallery, and read about who performs the wedding and what the paperwork is in our article Can you have a church wedding outdoors in Poland?

The essentials in brief

Where can you hold an outdoor church wedding in Pomerania?

Most often by the sea, by the Kashubian lakes, in a forest or in the garden of a wedding venue. It is easiest when the ceremony takes place close to the hall where the reception will be.

Do you need permission for a wedding by the sea?

On private grounds, the owner’s consent is enough, for example a hotel or wedding venue. On the beach and other public land, ask whoever manages the area before you book the date.

What if it rains on the wedding day?

Prepare a plan B in the same place: a roof, a tent or a pavilion. It is best to agree it when you choose the place, not a week before the wedding.

Planning an outdoor church wedding?

Tell us about your date and your place. We will prepare the ceremony and guide you through the paperwork.

Read on

Outdoor church wedding by the sea, the priest at the altar and the guests

Paperwork4 min read

Can you have a church wedding outdoors in Poland?

Yes, but the rules depend on the Church. When the Roman Catholic Church allows a wedding outside a church, and how a Polish Catholic outdoor wedding works.

Read