If you’ve ever imagined a wedding that feels both elegant and effortless, a lodge wedding might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Picture this: the sun dipping behind the trees, guests laughing around the fire pit, and a quiet moment with your partner under a sky full of stars.
At Soggy Bottom Lodge, we’ve hosted countless weddings, and every one of them has its own kind of magic. Here’s how to plan a weekend celebration that’s as memorable as your love story.
1. Start with the Right Season
Alabama’s natural beauty shines year-round, but each season offers a different atmosphere. Spring brings colorful blooms, summer offers long golden evenings, fall surrounds you with warm tones, and winter adds cozy charm to indoor celebrations.
Think about your ideal backdrop and what will make your photos pop. Many couples love the soft light and mild temperatures of spring or early fall.
2. Create a Weekend Timeline
One of the biggest perks of a lodge wedding is having an entire weekend to celebrate, not just a few rushed hours.
Here’s a simple flow to inspire your schedule:
- Friday: Welcome dinner or rehearsal followed by a relaxed evening by the fire.
- Saturday: Ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
- Sunday: Farewell brunch or a quiet morning on the water.
Spreading your celebration across a few days lets guests settle in and enjoy the experience at a slower pace.
3. Make Guests Feel at Home
Your guests will love the chance to unwind in a place that feels both luxurious and comfortable. Lodges like Soggy Bottom offer spacious rooms, scenic views, and plenty of activities. Encourage guests to arrive early and explore. Whether it’s fishing, hiking, or just relaxing on the porch, it makes the weekend feel like a mini-vacation for everyone.
You can even include welcome baskets with local snacks, water, sunscreen, and a printed itinerary to make them feel extra appreciated.
4. Use Nature as Your Decor
One of the best things about a lodge wedding is that you don’t need to overdo the decorations. The scenery does most of the work for you. Use greenery, candles, and simple floral arrangements that complement the natural surroundings.
If your ceremony is outdoors, consider a wooden arch or floral arbor to frame your vows. Inside, warm lighting and rustic accents create a cozy, romantic atmosphere that blends perfectly with the setting.
5. Choose a Menu that Fits the Mood
Food brings people together, and your wedding menu should reflect that. Many couples at Soggy Bottom Lodge choose a menu that highlights Southern favorites like grilled steak, fresh fish, or wild game dishes.
Add a personal touch with family recipes, a signature cocktail, or a late-night snack station. Your guests will remember the food and the laughter that came with it.
6. Capture the Moments
With so much natural beauty around, your photographer will have endless opportunities for incredible shots. Schedule time for photos at golden hour, when the light is soft and golden.
Don’t forget the candid moments: morning coffee with your wedding party, a quiet walk with your partner, or your family gathered around the fire after the reception. These are the images that tell the real story.
7. Relax and Enjoy the Ride
The best weddings are the ones where everyone feels relaxed, including the couple. Work closely with the lodge’s team to handle the logistics so you can focus on being present.
Remember, this isn’t just an event, it’s a weekend to celebrate love, laughter, and the people who mean the most to you.
Final Thoughts
A lodge wedding offers a unique mix of natural beauty and Southern hospitality. At Soggy Bottom Lodge, you’ll find more than just a venue; you’ll find a setting that feels alive, welcoming, and unforgettable.
Plan it right, trust your team, and let the scenery do the rest. The result will be a wedding weekend that feels less like an event and more like the beginning of a lifetime of memories.
If you can picture your vows surrounded by nature, it’s time to make it happen. Schedule a tour of Soggy Bottom Lodge and see how beautiful your lodge wedding weekend can be.