Well, let’s start at the very beginning because…
A treehouse elopement is an intimate and adventurous way to exchange vows in a whimsical, elevated venue nestled in nature.
Whether you host your entire elopement or microwedding at the treehouse, or, use the space as a beautiful lodging to enjoy beautiful adventures nearby, a treehouse elopement is a beautiful way to marry.
Planning a treehouse elopement can be both magical and unique, but it also comes with specific questions couples need to consider.
From understanding the capacity limits to managing accessibility, and even planning around unpredictable weather, treehouse weddings are an enchanting yet detailed experience. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate celebration or want to know the logistics to help you decide if it is a fit for you, here are the top 11 questions couples frequently ask about treehouse elopements to plan an amazing experience in the canopy.
Question #1:
What’s the Maximum Capacity of a Treehouse Elopement?
When thinking of a treehouse elopements capacity, you have to think about capacity in multiple ways: accommodations for people that will stay at the venue, seating for your vow exchange, and reception space. Do you want everyone to stay on the treehouse property with you? Are you imagining your vow exchange to be sky-high or in a field nearby? Do you want to hold the reception on-site or do you want to do it somewhere else?
The maximum capacity of what a treehouse can hold differs dramatically by your answers to the above questions.
Treehouses are inherently designed to be intimate. They cater to small gatherings, cozy connections, and micro-wedding events. Most treehouse venues can comfortably accommodate >20 guests for 1 elopement, making them a perfect choice if you’re looking to have a microwedding.
Just because there is limited capacity does not mean you have to pick and choose which crew is involved. There are plenty of ways to include your favorite people, even from a distance. Here’s a blog all about how to elope with your family.
Question #2:
What does it Cost to Book a Treehouse Elopement?
The cost of booking a treehouse elopement for your wedding can vary widely depending on several factors that create the event that you are looking to have. The price of your treehouse will change based on amenities, location, season of booking, day of the week, and add-ons the location offers.
Some venues may offer all-inclusive packages that cover the venue and accommodation, while others may charge separately for each component.
It’s important to inquire about their pricing structure, including what is included at the base price and any additional fees for services the venue can provide: such as catering, decorations, or extended rental periods.
Understanding the full cost upfront helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises.
For those on a tighter budget, consider treehouses that offer weekday or off-season discounts.
If you’re utilizing my Enchanted Canopy Collection, I can help with all of this!
Question #3:
How Accessible Is a Treehouse for Guests With Mobility Issues?
Accessibility is a crucial consideration. Many treehouses involve stairs, ladders, or uneven terrain, which can be difficult for some guests to navigate. This is something you really need to prioritize based on your elopement party’s mobility.
Some treehouse venues can offer accessibility features, such as ramps, elevators, or alternative pathways. Some even offer offer ground-level accommodations nearby, allowing guests to participate in the festivities without needing to climb.
The best way to approach this topic is to ask the treehouse elopement locations you’re considering directly. Ask them how they handle this topic and see if that accommodates your crew.
Then, communicate these details to your guests ahead of time so they can plan accordingly. Giving your crew a heads up will make everyone feel welcome and comfortable AND give them plenty of time to place accordingly.
Question #4:
Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Wedding Ceremony or Decorations?
When thinking about your elopement, decorations are something you should absolutely consider. They can take your already cool treehouse elopement and turn it into something that is completely you.
Decorations can come from your venue directly, or from outside providers. Things like florists, furniture rentals, personal touches, and plate rentals can create a VIBE.
Because of the natural surroundings of a treehouse, you want to be conscious of the types of decorations you’re considering. For example, you always want to:
- Leave no trace,
- Limit open flames,
- Avoid hanging items on the tree/walls directly, and,
- Be cautious of the weight limits on elevated decks as you arrange seating, social areas, etc.
Think about these restrictions and talk with the venue early in the planning process. This way, you will bring your vision to life without any issues.
Knowing the guidelines will help you make informed decisions and avoid any last-minute disappointments.
Question #5:
What Happens in Case of Bad Weather?
Weather is one of the most unpredictable aspects of an outdoor wedding and a treehouse elopement, and it’s crucial to have accurate expectations.
Ask the venue about their options for handling rain, high winds, or other adverse weather conditions. Also ask your venue about the chance of mud (trust me!!)
Some treehouses with venues may offer indoor spaces, covered decks, or the ability to rent tents to keep your guests dry and comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to plan for temperature fluctuations—blankets or portable heaters can be provided for cooler weather, while fans or misters can help keep guests cool in the heat.
Having a backup plan in place ensures that your wedding can proceed smoothly, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
Question #6:
Is There a Coordinator or On-Site Support Available for a Treehouse Elopement?
One thing that I believe about elopements is that they should be completely unique to the happy couple. They must capture the feeling that the couple wants and highlight the special kind of love that they share.
With that in mind, depending on the detail an complexity of your plans for your treehouse elopement, a traditional wedding coordinator could be a critical vendor to book for expert guidance for:
- Elopement decor
- Amazing catering & meal service planning
- Gorgeous tablescapes, and,
- Completely bespoke-to-you onsite details
… all things that will make your elopement wedding absolutely shine.
Some treehouses that already cater to elopements & weddings, like the beautiful Emerald Forest Treehouse, may have a site coordinator or a list of approved planners to tap into as you create your onsite experience.
But, where that isn’t pre-set, as your elopement photographer and concierge, a key part of my support for you is helping find vet & connect critical vendors to help provide you a beautifully thoughtful wedding experience within the venue.
If you are eloping just you two and with minimal decor or other onsite details/events…. OR… If you are an ace DIY-er or, have a DIY-capable crew if eloping with guests…. then tackling on your own without a planner or even a day of coordinator may be ok!
But, keep in mind that unlike a traditional wedding venue indoors or covered areas like pavilions, your treehouse elopement may feature primarily outdoor spaces.
So, to ensure success, make sure your decor planning, setup & teardown or any other unique needs take into account the venue’s Leave No Trace rules, and, complexities like distance to the event space from parking, uneven ground, or, limited access to power.
Images immediately below are courtesy of Emerald Forest Treehouse wedding venue
Question #7:
Are There Any Special Considerations for Bringing Pets?
For many couples, including their pets in the wedding ceremony is a must. However, not all venues are pet-friendly, so it’s important to ask about the treehouse’s pet policy.
If pets are allowed, inquire about any specific rules, such as leash requirements, designated pet areas, or additional cleaning fees. Some venues may even offer pet-friendly amenities, such as dog beds or bowls.
Keep in mind that some areas of a treehouse will have stairs, decks, netting, or other railings.
So, be sure that you keep a close eye on your pet so that they can safely navigate any scary areas like open or grated stairs. And, keep an eye out for drop offs that gaps in railings might allow for small pets.
If your pet will be part of the ceremony, make sure to plan for their care during the event, whether that involves designating a loved one to play pet sitting as needed. For safety, based on the reasons above, don’t plan on being able to leave your much loved little buddy alone!
In short, ensuring that your furry friend is comfortable and well cared for will make their participation in your celebration even more special and give you peace of mind as you adventure.
Question #8:
How Far in Advance Should We Book our Treehouse Elopement?
Treehouse venues are often in high demand, particularly during peak wedding season.
To secure your desired date, it’s advisable to book well in advance. And, if you are looking to book out an entire “camp” or collection of lodging at or near the treehouse for your elopement, planning ahead is a must.
The recommended (and allowed!) timeline can vary depending on the venue. But, in my experience planning to book 12 to 18 months ahead is generally a good rule of thumb.
If you have a dream spot in mind, call me, let’s align on date windows, and then get you in contact with the venue to reserve your specific date as early as possible!
Question #9:
What Is the Policy for Cancellations or Changes?
Life is unpredictable, and it’s important to know the venue’s policy for cancellations or changes. Ask about the flexibility of the booking and any associated fees for altering the date, reducing guest numbers, or canceling the event altogether.
Some treehouse elopement venues may offer partial refunds, allow you to reschedule without penalty, while others might have stricter policies.
And, if you are using lodging at the venue for your treehouse elopement, note that those bookings may have different cancellation or modification deadlines than any event contracts you may have. So, be sure to read both parts carefully, and if it doesn’t state if there’s a difference outright in the materials from the vendor, it is one I’d suggest you get clarification on.
Understanding these terms ahead of time gives you peace of mind and ensures that you’re prepared for any unexpected changes to your plans or those of your guests if you are eloping at the treehouse with your crew.
Question #10:
What Makes a Treehouse Elopement Unique?
Every single treehouse has unique features that make them really special.
It could be the sweeping overlooks, quirky animal elements, or breathtaking architecture.
This is something worth doing research on because you don’t want any surprises.
Things like a sweeping overlook can be perfect for what you’re envisioning, or if you’re planning to have kids and pets in attendence, the exposure could be dangerous.
Maybe there is a farm or animal element to it and depending on how you or guests feel about animals it could be fun, disappointing, or even scary for little ones in attendance. So, think carefully about if the space will work for you!
Ferrah is one of several Emu roaming a beautiful aviary of global birds housed at Archimedes Nest Treehouse , an elopement and mircro wedding venue in my Enchanted Canopy Collection in Atlanta, Georgia
Question #11:
Where can I find the best treehouses for my elopement?
You can scour the depths of the internet, VRBO, Airbnb, and exhaustive google searches. Then, as you find possible options, you can read reviews and deep dive into location info to see what’s around it for activities and lodging for you and your guests.
OR…
You reach out to me to hit the easy button! Why? I offer a one-of-a-kind elopement and microwedding planning with my Enchanted Canopy Collection.
This is a collection is where your dream of an intimate, adventurous, and celebration-filled treehouse elopement wedding that delights & amazes comes to life.
You can book a one-of-a-kind elopement or micro wedding experience AND ease the stress of having to start from a blank slate of planning it all.
You rest confidently.
I’ll tap into my curated network of experts, accommodations, planners, decor, and other service providers to make your elopement amazing. In short? I do the initial hard work to help create a fun AND experience-focused wedding adventure for you.
Let’s Build your treehouse elopement, together!
Why you’ll love a treehouse elopement wedding
Choosing a treehouse elopement venue is an exciting step in creating a magical and memorable event. By addressing these common questions, you can ensure that the venue you select aligns perfectly with your needs and vision.
From understanding the logistics and costs to planning for contingencies and personalizing your celebration, being well-informed will help you make the best decision for your big day.
With the right treehouse venue, your wedding will be an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature’s beauty and the people you love most.
Have any follow up questions? Email me directly — I’m happy to use my expertise to help with any questions on your mind!