1. What do I need to do first?
Please review our website describing our various venues and menus. Either give us a call at 619-685-3259 or complete a "Request for Information" at sandiegozooevents.org with your details. Our Wedding Specialist will contact you to start the planning.
2. What indoor or outdoor venue options do I have?
We have three scenic outdoor ceremony sites with lush surroundings and views. Each of our four unique reception locations can accommodate group sizes from 50 guests to 180 guests.
3. What times do the Wedding Ceremonies take place?
Ceremony times vary per location and the time of year between 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Please inquire to learn more about specific locations.
4. Do you have a place for the wedding party to get ready?
Yes. A changing room is available two hours prior to the wedding ceremony start time.
5. How late can my wedding go?
Depending on the exact location, ending times vary from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. We allot 30 minutes for the ceremony, plus 5 hours for the cocktail reception and dinner and dancing. Additional time may be available at $1000/hour.
6. How much time is allowed for decorating and set-up?
All vendors and decorators may have access to the room or ceremony site two hours prior to the start of the wedding.
7. Are tables, linens, chairs, plates, silverware, and glassware provided?
Yes, the San Diego Safari Park provides garden chairs for the ceremony and guest tables, chairs, house linens, china, and any additional display tables for the reception and dinner.
8. Can we bring in our own caterer?
No, all food and beverage is supplied by the Safari Park.
9. Are menu tastings available?
Yes, menu tastings may be arranged after the wedding agreement is signed and returned with the deposit. Please inquire with your venue coordinator for available dates and time. There is a charge at the time of the tasting that will be credited back to your wedding account.
10. Do you require a wedding coordinator?
While we do not require a wedding coordinator, we do suggest a Day Off Coordinator to assist with ceremony coordination, table escort cards placement, party favors, centerpieces, etc.... Our event venue coordinator will guide you through the planning stages and menu selection, create a detailed event order with event specifics including a wedding day time-line, a floor plan for the ceremony and reception, as well as oversee the setup of the venues. They act as a liaison between your Day Of Wedding Coordinator and zoo staff members.
11. Do you have a list of preferred vendors?
Yes, we have carefully selected a list of creative partners that we work with often. They are highly recommended by our staff and previous clients, based upon their quality and professionalism.
12. What is the "guaranteed guest count" and when is it due?
Your final or guaranteed guest count is the amount of people you expect to attend your reception/ceremony. The "guarantee" is due no later than ten business days prior to the date of your wedding. Once you have "guaranteed" a specific guest count, that number cannot be decreased, but it can be increased, within reason. You will be charged for the number that you guarantee or the actual number, whichever is greater.
13. How can I confirm a reservation?
We require a 25% deposit of the total estimated balance, along with a signed wedding sales agreement. The deposit is due within one week of receiving the wedding sales agreement. Should you cancel or change your date, the deposit is non-refundable.
14. Are tax and gratuities included in your package prices?
No. Sales tax will be added to all food, beverage, and rental items (except for non-hosted beverages). San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance does not charge a gratuity or service charge.
15. What other services should I consider that are not included with your package?
The following are the most common additions: Photographer, Wedding Cake, Floral and Décor, Officiant, and Music.
16. What is a Wildlife Animal Encounter?
Nothing completes a special event like a furry, feathered, or scaled guest of honor. Experience an up-close encounter with some of our rare and dynamic species that will inspire and amaze even the most educated animal enthusiast. Enjoy meeting our professional wildlife animal care specialists and learn about wildlife, ecosystems, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance conservation efforts, and our vision of ending extinction. Our wildlife animal ambassadors include a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals.