Weddings at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh: A Romantic & Unique Venue

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that combines romance, elegance, and a little bit of adventure, the National Aviary in Pittsburgh is a fantastic choice. With its lush gardens, incredible bird exhibits, and breathtaking views, this location offers the perfect backdrop for a day full of love and memories.

Whether you’re planning to host both your ceremony and reception or just the reception, the Aviary has everything you need for a stunning event. Here’s why you should consider it for your wedding day!

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Why Choose the National Aviary for Your Wedding?

1. A Unique Experience for You and Your Guests:

The Aviary isn’t just a beautiful venue – it offers an unforgettable guest experience. Cocktail hour is spent mingling among the bird exhibits, giving everyone a chance to see penguins, flamingos, and other exotic birds up close. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to kick off your celebration and make your wedding even more memorable. Your guests (and you) will have plenty of opportunities for fun photo ops with these fascinating creatures.

2. Beautiful Backdrops for Photos:

You don’t need to go far for stunning wedding portraits. Just behind the ivy-covered brick wall is Lake Elizabeth, a gorgeous, tranquil spot that makes for a perfect first-look location, romantic couple portraits, or even stunning night shots. If you’re drawn to the iconic Pittsburgh skyline, the North Shore is just a short drive away, offering picturesque views of the bridges and the city.

3. The Secret Garden for Your Ceremony:

The Aviary’s garden is a hidden gem, offering a whimsical, romantic path for the couple to walk down to meet each other. This beautiful garden is always well-kept, with vibrant flowers and lush greenery that create the perfect setting for a ceremony. The garden also works great for family and bridal party photos if you want to keep everything on-site, making it even more convenient for you and your guests.

4. The Garden Room Reception Venue:

The Garden Room, where your reception will take place, is a photographer’s dream. Its bright, clean white walls and elegant fireplaces provide a romantic atmosphere perfect for uplighting and creating the ambiance you want. If the weather’s nice, the wall behind the head table can be opened, offering a gorgeous open-air experience for your reception. It’s a versatile space that can adapt to your style and preferences.

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Tips for Couples Planning a Wedding at the Aviary:

1. Be Mindful of Timing:

The Aviary is also a museum, so you can’t access the venue until a certain time. Plan your timing carefully to ensure that you have everything ready and set up in time for your ceremony.

2. Nearby Hotel Options:

If you’re looking for luxury accommodations nearby, there are great hotels on the North Shore or downtown Pittsburgh, even The Priory, which are perfect for both your guests to stay and for you to get ready. Having a nearby hotel also gives you a convenient location for getting ready photos, so you don’t have to worry about long travel times on the big day.

3. Hire a Day-of Coordinator or Helper:

I highly recommend hiring a day-of coordinator or someone separate to help with set up and tear down. This will free up your bridal party, parents, and yourself from the stress of handling logistics while you’re trying to get ready and enjoy the day. Your wedding day is about celebrating, so make sure you have someone to handle the behind-the-scenes work!

4. Consider a First Look:

A first look is a great way to have more time for portraits or explore different locations for photos. It also lets you enjoy a quiet moment together before the ceremony and gives you more flexibility with your timeline. If you’d rather not do a first look, try to schedule as many of your bridal party and family portraits before the ceremony to ensure you don’t miss out on precious moments during the cocktail hour.

5. Enjoy the Cocktail Hour:

Cocktail hour at the Aviary is fast-paced, but it’s also a great time for your guests to explore the exhibits and mingle among the birds. If you’re hoping to take full advantage of the experience without sacrificing your photos.

See some of our favorite love stories from this venue:

Final Thoughts

A wedding at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh offers a unique combination of natural beauty, unforgettable experiences, and breathtaking photo opportunities. From the whimsical garden ceremony to the interactive bird exhibits, your wedding will stand out as a romantic, one-of-a-kind celebration that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.

If you’re looking for a venue that’s both beautiful and filled with fun, the National Aviary is a perfect choice. Just be sure to plan your timeline carefully, consider a first look, and make use of the stunning surroundings for your photos. With careful planning and a little help from your coordinator, your wedding at the Aviary will be nothing short of magical.

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Looking for someone to capture your wedding day at the Aviary?

Check out the weddings page for more information, I would love to be a part of your day.