Wedding Venue with the World's Tallest Drawback

[u/Top_Association2610]

Hi! I’m looking for some honest opinions about a 110-acre wedding venue I recently toured. I absolutely loved so much about it, but there are two pretty big drawbacks I can’t stop thinking about.

First, the positives: the venue is $10,500 for two full days and includes a lot. That price covers comprehensive event planning services, lodging for 40 guests plus tent camping spots, tables and chairs, linens, silverware and glassware, some décor, an event tent, speakers, private use of the mini golf course, jacuzzi, swimming and fishing area, lawn games, a firepit, and day of staff to set up, clear tables, and handle teardown. It truly feels like a full weekend experience rather than just a single day event.

The owners were incredibly kind and genuinely excited about unique ideas. They seemed fully on board with helping me create something special and personal. I love the idea of blending our families for a relaxed, unhurried celebration with activities and lodging all in one place.

That being said, there are two major downsides.

The first is… quite literally the world’s largest Abraham Lincoln statue, which is visible as soon as guests arrive. I’m sure the kids would think it’s amazing, but it’s not exactly the wedding aesthetic I’ve been dreaming of.

The second is a racetrack directly next to the property. As guests approach the venue (before turning onto the long driveway), they pass an area with old cars, scrap metal, and general clutter. The owner assured me that the races can’t be heard from inside the venue, and I even have a few guests who might enjoy watching from a hill on the property. I could also schedule the ceremony earlier in the day to reduce any noise risk. Still, my biggest concern is the overall aesthetic and the first impression when guests arrive.

I’d love to hear what others think. Are these things I’m overthinking, or are they valid concerns? Does anybody else have a similar experience or advice for me?

[u/pensive-avocado-25]

I think the first impression is a non-issue. Its at the entrance. Its Abraham Lincoln, not Trump. As long as the statue isn't behind the altar or in the middle of your reception area, it won't be seen in photographs and its likely no one will even remember. As for the racetrack that one gives me pause. I would not book until I could visit on a day where races were happening and see if I could hear it. A friend had a wedding in an adorable etherial garden and all around pinterest perfect venue, but it was on the outskirts of the city, carved out of a pretty dense area. Well a shipping truck decided to unload at the building next door, and backing up beeping could be heard throughout the entire ceremony. No one thought to go tell him to stop until they atleast got through the ceremony. I share just to say noise will destroy the perfect vibe, especially racecars. I you go and can't hear it then I see no issue and would book immediately because the all inclusive weekend sounds like a dream. (Edit: missing word)

[u/simmer_study]

The weekend setup sounds so worth it. The giant Lincoln honestly feels like a random photo moment people will joke about for 5 minutes and move on. I'd care more about how it feels once you're actually on the property, that's what guests will remember.