Hitting a Home Run: Saying “I Do” at a Non-Traditional Venue

When you think of a wedding, you probably picture a chapel, ballroom, or rustic barn. But some couples are stepping up to the plate (literally) and choosing venues that are anything but traditional. On Sunday, I had the privilege of coordinating a wedding at the Frisco RoughRiders baseball stadium—and it was a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful and memorable celebrations happen in unexpected places.

Why Choose a Non-Traditional Venue?

A wedding should reflect who you are as a couple. For these newlyweds, baseball was a big part of their story. By hosting their wedding at a stadium, they weren’t just saying “we love baseball,” they were showing their guests what matters most to them: fun, family, and making memories together.

Beyond personal connections, non-traditional venues often offer:

• Built-in character: Instead of dressing up a blank ballroom, you’re working with a space that already has personality.
• Memorable experiences: Guests will be talking about your wedding long after they leave, because it wasn’t “just another reception.”
• Unique photo ops: Imagine bridal portraits in the dugout, first looks on the pitcher’s mound, or group shots in the stands.

What It’s Like to Host a Stadium Wedding

Coordinating a wedding in a space designed for sports (not seating charts and centerpieces!) does come with challenges—but that’s part of the excitement. At the RoughRiders stadium, we had to think differently about flow, sound, and guest comfort.

• Ceremony: The couple said their vows right on the field, with the stands as a dramatic backdrop.
• Cocktail hour: Guests mingled along the concourse with ballpark-style snacks, which added to the fun, relaxed vibe.
• Reception: The dinner and dancing took place in the club level, giving everyone a great view of the stadium while still enjoying a formal, celebratory atmosphere.

It was equal parts elegant and playful—the kind of wedding that perfectly matched the couple’s personalities.

Things to Keep in Mind

If you’re dreaming of a non-traditional venue, here are a few tips:

1. Ask about logistics. Some venues aren’t designed for weddings, so you’ll need to know about load-in times, catering options, restrooms, and accessibility.
2. Think about sound. Open spaces (like stadiums) can swallow audio. A strong AV plan is essential.
3. Work with the space, not against it. Lean into the character of the venue rather than trying to cover it up.
4. Hire a planner who loves a challenge. A non-traditional venue requires creative problem-solving—and that’s exactly what makes it fun.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Whether you choose a baseball stadium, art gallery, family ranch, or local brewery, what matters is that it feels like you. The Frisco RoughRiders stadium wedding was proof that stepping outside tradition can create a day that’s unforgettable, both for the couple and their guests.

So if you’re considering a venue that makes people raise their eyebrows, my advice is: go for it. After all, love is about writing your own story—and sometimes, the best ones are played out under the stadium lights.