Think you can’t afford a gorgeous outdoor wedding with a beautiful backdrop?

Think again, say county officials.

San Diego County parks are available for weddings. Photo courtesy County News Center via Pinterest
San Diego County parks are available for weddings. Photo courtesy County News Center via Pinterest

Beautiful indoor and outdoor settings start at $150 and range upward depending on the park, the amenities and the hours used for the ceremonies, the county says.

Want something old? Heritage Park features several restored Victorian homes. Or consider the historic ranch houses at Rancho Guajome Adobe or Los Peñasquitos Canyon.

Something new? A new wedding gazebo is now available at Flinn Springs County Park. The romantic venue is ADA accessible and features lighting for early evening weddings. The Waterfront Park at the County Administration Center downtown is still under construction, but come summer, Parks will take reservations for wedding venues there, too.

Something borrowed? Sylvia Bugiel will lend an ear to any questions you might have about a wedding at a County park. She sets up hundreds each year and has the scoop on where to find pavilions, indoor wedding halls, dance floors, kitchens, restrooms, music, parking and more. Need space for 200 wedding guests? Sylvia’s the expert.

She’ll help you find what you need for the wedding of your dreams and at a reasonable price.

“I have told engaged couples what might work best according to their budget and needs. You can save money if you do this as opposed to doing that,” Bugiel said.

Like maybe for the honeymoon?

And something blue?

Say “I do” overlooking the still blue waters of the lake at the Lakeside Community Center or the lake at Dos Picos County Park. For yet another option, repeat your vows to the soothing sounds of water trickling through a stream at Flinn Springs County Park.

Parks offers 16 settings for wedding ceremonies throughout San Diego County. Reservations can be made up to a year in advance or engaged couples can call to see if anything is available today.

For information and reservations: (858) 565-3600.

— County News Center