Finding Love in Pittsburgh’s Parks

When people picture their wedding day, some dream of glitz and glamour, and others dream of intimate and serene. The parks offer a stunning backdrop, whether you are a nature-lover or just hoping to tie the knot surrounded by trees. But one thing is clear—celebrating the big day in Pittsburgh's Parks supports the Park Conservancy's mission of maintaining vibrant park spaces for all. It's a unique way for your love to give back.

 

Park love stories are endearing to us. Maybe your first date was walking along Nine Mile Run in Frick Park. Or maybe you've watched the sunset multiple times together atop the Meadow in Schenley Park. Today we are interviewing two couples—Michael and Rachel and Judy and Patty, all of whom celebrated their love with gorgeous weddings in Pittsburgh's Parks. Read about their love stories below and why they chose Pittsburgh's parks as their wedding venues!

 

Michael and Rachel

How did you meet? 

We met through a dating app in 2021, shortly after Rachel moved to Pittsburgh, and realized we lived only a few blocks away from each other. What started as casual walks together through Frick Park led to long runs multiple days per week, right past the Frick Environmental Center—where we would later get married.  

What led you to choose the Frick Environmental Center for your wedding venue?  

We toured multiple venues, but our emotional resonance with Frick Park, coupled with the park’s scenic backdrop and immersion with nature right in the heart of the city, really spoke to us. 

A favorite memory to share: 

At the ceremony, during Rachel’s “here comes the bride” moment, the crowd stood and watched her walk along the entry bridge, down the stairs to the outdoor amphitheater and up to the Chuppah to meet me. It was such a powerful and dramatic entrance.  

What do Pittsburgh’s Parks mean to you? 

We both consider accessibility to local parks as one of the best features about living in Pittsburgh. We look forward to celebrating a lifetime of new experiences within them—including introducing Frick Park to our first child, expected May 15! 

 

Judy and Patty

How did you meet? 

Judy and I met through some friends. Judy was new in town in 2015 and starving on a Friday night. Patty and 2 friends kindly accepted Judy's invite to come out for coffee and watch her eat in Squirrel Hill!

What do Pittsburgh's parks mean to you?

The parks are one of the best features of Pittsburgh and a favorite place. Patty grew up next to Frick Park and spent most of her childhood playing, biking, sledding, etc. During Covid, we organized gatherings with our friends, to play corn hole, drink hot apple cider and chit chat near the Environmental Center on Beechwood. It helped our mental health tremendously to see our friends outdoors! We continue to love playing pickle ball at Blue Slide Park and Schenley Park. Patty is a big hiker and finds so much joy in Frick. We both love to ride our bikes in the summer in the parks, and cross-country ski in the winter!

What led you to choose the Schenley Park Visitors Center for your special day?

We jumped on the chance to have our wedding at Schenley Park (next to Phipps) as it offered the perfect balance of outdoor freshness with posh catered service. The Parks Conservancy staff (Katie) were also so friendly and accommodating. We felt very welcomed and “seen” with our vision for our wedding! The Parks Conservancy had our backs on every detail, including solid recommendations on caterers and table rentals that could accommodate the venue. Black Radish did an amazing job with the dinner and appetizers.

 

Interested in celebrating forever in Pittsburgh's parks? Plan your dream wedding and inquire today! We offer breathtaking venues, such as the Frick Environmental Center, the Schenley Park Visitors Center, and Schenley Plaza, with curated options for both ceremonies and receptions.

Wedding photography by David Kelly.

Michael Stuart and Rachel Sandoval look into the woods from the balcony of the Frick Environmental Center.
Michael Stuart and Rachel Sandoval look into the woods from the balcony of the Frick Environmental Center.
The happy couple after just tying the knot, exiting near the rain ravine.
The happy couple after just tying the knot, exiting near the rain ravine.
An aerial view of the amphitheater, at the Frick Environmental Center.
An aerial view of the amphitheater, at the Frick Environmental Center.
Patty and Judy share a loving embrace near the Schenley Park Visitors Center.
Patty and Judy share a loving embrace near the Schenley Park Visitors Center.
Patty and Judy cut their wedding cake on their special day.
Patty and Judy cut their wedding cake on their special day.