(Article contributed by Hazel Bowman, PrescottWeddings.com publisher)

One of the questions I’m frequently asked as the publisher of PrescottWeddings.com is, “Where can I get married?” I understand. For many people unfamiliar with the Prescott area, location options might appear limited. Though it’s true we don’t provide the variety of venues found in a large city, there are more places to have your perfect wedding than initially meets the eye. There are numerous background settings that are beautiful and unique with their own special charm. It all depends on your style and theme.

Outdoors.

The splendor of the Prescott National Forest , the grandeur of Granite Mountain, the stateliness of the Bradshaw Mountains, and the dramatic mountain top of the San Francisco Peaks have all been favorite surroundings for Brides and Grooms throughout the seasons. Picture your wedding at the base of Thumb Butte, amidst the tall scented pines, or for the more adventuresome, at the top of the Butte with its 360º panoramic vista. Watson Lake is set among the Granite Dells, while Goldwater Lake provides that nestled rustic feeling. Lynx Lake has a privately owned restaurant facility that can be reserved for parties. Reservations are through the Prescott Parks and Recreation department for a nominal fee.

For that feeling of sheer exclusivity, Young’s Farm Park in Dewey is a hidden oasis. This secluded dell is lush with green grass and wildflowers, with towering 100 year-old cottonwood trees providing cool shade in the hot summer months. Recently sold to developers, the land is one of the last untouched jewels that may not survive another five years. (Sadly, this venue is no longer available.)

If you don’t mind onlookers smiling at you, consider getting married in the heart of downtown Prescott. The historic Victorian gazebo at the Courthouse Square has been the site of weddings for almost 100 years. Or, for a bit more privacy, consider a B&B. Prescott has some of the finest in the country, with manicured lawns and white-painted gazebos providing magnificent garden settings.

Indoors.

Besides the hotels and resorts that grace our fine town, think outside the box. The Pueblo Room at the Smoki Museum reflects Prescott’s rich heritage. Constructed of native stone and wood, thousands of pine logs were used for its columns, vigas and latillas. Less than three miles away, hidden from the busy street, Prescott College’s Crossroad Center offers 12,000 sq. ft. of multifunctional space equipped with wireless Internet throughout.

Outside of town, located on 160 acres in the center of the JC Ranch in Chino Valley, the Windmill House is an 8000 sq. ft. Tuscan-style clubhouse with private terraces and covered patios. Its professional landscaping includes your own private lake and island.

With so many choices to reflect your style and personality, it could be difficult to choose. Wherever you decide, you will be capturing the exciting western and romantic essence Prescott is known for.

by Hazel Bowman, the owner of PrescottWeddings.com, the Prescott area’s premier online wedding magazine.

To learn more about Hazel, hop over to Loosely Speaking’s interview with her.

For more details on where to get married in Prescott, visit these direct links to her site:

Where to Say I Do in the Prescott Tri-City Area
Prescott Wedding Locations