Venue Spotlight
Lehigh Valley Zoo
By: Kristina Gonzalez 

Do you and your significant other have a great love for wildlife and nature? Thinking that you would like to say your “I do’s” at one of the most unique venues the Lehigh Valley has to offer? Then look no further than the Lehigh Valley Zoo in Schnecksville. Here you can be surrounded by family, friends and more than 300 exotic animals while exchanging your wedding vows. Exquisite Bride spoke to the Marketing and Events Manager, Alan Raisman, and he has given us all the details on how couples can plan their one-of-a-kind wedding at the zoo.

Since 2012 the Lehigh Valley Zoo has allowed couples to book weddings and have their receptions here, and the venue’s popularity is continuing to increase. The Lehigh Valley Zoo has a variety of locations for couples to choose from for both their ceremony and reception that can be booked after hours. Three unique ceremony locations to choose from include the Jaindl Penguin Pavilion, the North American Otter exhibit and the Farm in the Zoo Exhibit.

All three locations offer something different for brides to choose from. Raisman states, “The Penguin Pathway is an ideal spot for couples to get married, with ten African Penguins creating an unforgettable backdrop.” The amphitheater style layout of the American River Otter exhibit is a perfect location for wedding parties containing over 100 guests. If you prefer a looking for a more customizable location, the Farm in the Zoo exhibit hosts a 20×40 tent that can accommodate between 70-100 guests.

 If you’re interested in just having your reception at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, there several great locations for couples to choose from that can accommodate small or large wedding parties.  The Peacock Pavilion seats 96 people, and the Outdoor Dining Deck seats another 184 people. The zoo offers more than just a gorgeous view; interactive exhibits can also be included in your reception. These interactive exhibits include the Rainbow Lorikeet exhibit, Goat Exhibit, Farm in the Zoo exhibit and the Red Kangaroo Exhibit. Guests can interact with the exhibits during the cocktail hour or you can choose a time that works best for you.

The Lehigh Valley Zoo offers their own catering menu, but you can bring an outsider caterer if you prefer. Alcohol is permitted at the zoo after hours, but you’re responsible for hiring your own bartenders to serve the beverages. The staff at the zoo is more than accommodating and will be happy to help set up and clean up your event.

Finally, the best part about booking your wedding at the zoo? The revenue generated through rentals, catering and event enhancements helps support the daily cost to feed and care for the Zoo’s animal ambassadors.

For more information on having your special day at the zoo
please contact Alan Raisman at 610-799-4171 or visit www.lvzoo.org.