Weddings

Private Proposal Ideas in the Poconos | The Lodge at Woodloch

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8 Private Proposal Ideas Romance at Woodloch

The Lodge at Woodloch, our sister property, is the sophisticated, utterly romantic escape that is just what you’ve been searching for all winter. While Woodloch Resort remains an epicenter for family fun, The Lodge at Woodloch has evolved into a dazzling, enticing respite for couples aiming for an extended break from New York City, Philadelphia, or Washington D.C. And, as you might imagine, this world-renowned destination spa resort has played host to a perfect proposal or two over the decades. Popping the question is one of the most memorable moments of a person’s life, so it’s vital to scan through as many surprise, creative, or private proposal ideas as possible.

8 Unique Private Proposal Ideas

Depending on the individual, your sweetheart may see a forthcoming proposal coming from a mile away—that’s why it’s essential to be as crafty as possible. Hopefully, one of these eight private proposal ideas resonates with you. And, as always, please don’t hesitate to browse through our website (or give us a call) to learn more about our many amenities, diverse culinary options, and spa treatments.

The Gourmand Picnic Lunch: We’ll pack the picnic—you do the rest!
Plan a scavenger hunt: Just make sure the final clue eventually leads to a dazzling ring.
A post-massage surprise: After a genuinely revitalizing deep-tissue massage, saunter to our heavenly Silent Sanctuary to pop the question.
The classic vineyard stroll: Both Angler Ridge Winery and Wood Winery are a short scenic drive away from The Lodge. Walking through a vineyard remains one of the most desirable private proposal ideas among past guests.
An autumn adventure to Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary: Walk, hand in hand, underneath falling leaves that paint the sky shades of crimson, marigold, and amber.
A private dinner at TREE Restaurant: Let us arrange a private area for you and the love of your life. You might be tipping your hand here, but it will undoubtedly be worth it!
Browsing through an antique shop: Make a pit stop at the Hawley Antique Exchange or Miss Elly’s Antiques & Such to find a one-of-a-kind piece. “Look what I found!”
A cliché sunset walk: The Lodge at Woodloch is completely surrounded by dense forestry. And there’s nothing more romantic than walking through the woods while the day’s last light beams in-between the trees, creating a soft glow.

For more private proposal ideas, feel free to give our team a call today at 800-966-3562—our dedicated experts can help piece together a romantic proposal that perfectly suits your sweetheart’s personality. As one of the few adults-only, all-inclusive resorts in Pennsylvania, our luxury suites book well in advance. To reserve a romance package, simply visit our website and click “Reserve.”

Filed Under: Weddings Tagged With: Ideas, Proposals, Romance

Woodloch Weddings: A Guide to Holiday Proposals | Woodloch Resort

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Woodloch Weddings: A Guide to Holiday Proposals

I think Billy Squier said it best: “Christmas is the time to say I LOVE YOU.”

Come November 1^st, most of us tend to pack up the hokey spookiness of Halloween (I’m a huge fan) and slowly but surely start gearing up our houses for “the most WONDERFUL time of the year- the holidays!

It’s true- after we’re finished with the screaming and the maniacal laughter of All-Hallow’s Eve, our hearts maybe get just a little bit lighter. The holidays bring families and friends together across state lines, under the glow of beautiful lights, and maybe just for one brief moment, all is right in the world (until we get our credit card statements in January).

Perhaps this perfect atmosphere of family and love make it just about the perfect time for marriage proposals.

If it sounds all too perfect, maybe because it is. The two most popular days for engagements are Christmas and New Year’s. But perhaps it might even be wise to use the benefits of the holiday SEASON as a whole to surprise your soon-to-hopefully-be-your-fiancée with a proposal!

What are the benefits of this? Well, The Woodloch Weddings Team is glad that you asked!

WHY A HOLIDAY PROPOSAL?

THE SCENERY

It all starts with THE SCENERY. Where were you when this happened? With beautiful decorations just about everywhere during the holiday season, there’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops for your proposal! Think of marquee locations like the tree at Rockefeller Center in New York or Washington DC. But best of all? Even your own backyard becomes a magical locale with a little bit of snow and some Christmas lights! Throw in a couple of flurries and all of the sudden, you’re in a fairy tale.

THE FAM

Other than your hubby, nobody will be more excited to hear about your engagement than your family! So instead of informing them via Facebook/text/snapchat/whateveryoukidsareusingthese days, how wonderful would it be to break the news to EVERYONE in person? Holiday gatherings make that a cinch!

THE SALES

Let’s get real for a moment- we aren’t all made of money, and very few things in this world feel as good as landing a sweet deal. And just like blenders and those beautiful 4K televisions that will be on sale at big box retailers, so will engagement rings at select jewelers! Save yourself a few bucks and get a great deal on a beautiful ring that the love of your life will cherish. (You could always try the “buy and hide” tactic, but what are the chances that SOMEBODY might go snooping?)

THE OPPORTUNITIES

Not everyone is the hopeless romantic type, but if you can’t find a subtle cute way to pop the question during the holidays, well… you might be just plain hopeless.

A memorable walk through a lights display. A special ornament on a tree. Counting down to New Year’s on one knee. You get it. There are so many sweet yet subtle ways to propose that it almost seems like a wasted opportunity if you don’t.

THE BRIDAL SHOWS

It’s not a coincidence that there are so many holiday proposals- as we’ve discussed, it’s a great way to make it memorable! With that being said, many Bridal Showcases are held right after New Year’s. If you haven’t attended one, they are a great way to meet with venues and vendors and get many of your wedding details ironed out in one fell swoop!

THE LOVE

Yes, back to where it all began… LOVE. Love brought you to where you are, and the world just seems to glow a little bit brighter during the holidays. Who are we to deny what we’re feeling? Roll with that emotion, and let everything fall into place…

Just like flakes of snow.

Man proposing to woman at the Rockafeller Center ice rink.

Wedding proposal ornament. Text: Jenna, All I want for Christmas is for you to be my wife. Will you marry me?

Filed Under: holiday, Weddings, Winter Tagged With: christmas

So… Why a WOODLOCH Wedding?

The moment happened. The question was asked. The ring was presented. The crowd went wild. Time seemed to have frozen for the moment, then decided to pick up at double speed in order to catch up.

Life turns into a little bit of a blur once a couple is engaged. In between responding to the outpouring of well-wishes from friends and family, reality eventually sinks in: you need to find yourself a venue. And in today’s market, there are dozens and dozens of choices for you within any given zip code.

Once that is squared away, the hunt for photographers, caterers, bakeries, bands, DJ’s, linens and all that wonderful stuff begins. It’s going to be an exhausting, yet (keep your fingers crossed to the wedding day) hopefully rewarding process that results in what one would hope would be the happiest day of your life.

Luckily for you, we know a little place that can take so many planning headaches off your shoulders and maybe even make it an even more incredible day for you and your guests, just because that’s what we do! Woodloch could even be described as “the ultimate wedding venue” for a multitude of reasons.

1. THE DESTINATION – One of the best things about a Woodloch Wedding is the ability to have family, guests, and even the couple themselves stay at our resort! With so many traveling across state lines, how great is it to be able to party the night away, then hop on a shuttle for a brief 5 minute ride back to your room?

2. THAT VIEW… – Outdoor weddings at Woodloch include a beautiful backdrop. There’s something quaintly majestic about the serene waters of Lake Teedyuskung, Woodloch’s private lake. Maybe it’s the golden hour glow that brings warmth even on cooler autumn nights, or the absolutely relaxing sounds of tiny waves breaking on the shore. Or possibly… just something magic. The scenery is perfect- just add the couple and their guests!

Bride outdoors with sepia light filters.

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3. VENDORS MADE EASY – Right off the bat, Woodloch offers wonderful catering options, as well as an on-site bakery for an included wedding cake. For everything else we do not offer, we are fortunate enough to have a distinguished list of dozens of professional vendors that will make your search for help all that much easier.

We even host a Bridal Showcase every winter- absolutely FREE to our “Woodloch” couples!

4. IT’S PERSONAL – Woodloch’s mission statement has always been “to treat each and every guest as if they are company in our own home.” Weddings are no exception!

From day one, you will be assigned a personal wedding coordinator who will help you through the entire planning process. In case any “gameday audibles” need to be called, they will be by your side throughout to ensure success!

Group sitting around a firepit near house.

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5. BEFORE & AFTER – There are definite perks to holding your wedding at one of America’s favorite family resorts! With over 30 daily scheduled activities, it can’t hurt to arrive early for your special day and maybe even stick around for a few after the wedding. We also offer private bonfires & S’mores, contests like Paintball and Family Feud, water skiing and so much more- just for you and your wedding crew!

All in all, there is nothing quite like a Woodloch Wedding. So, when good news arrives and you’re looking for a truly immersive wedding experience for you and your guests, look no further than one of America’s favorite family resorts.

After all, weddings are really all about… FAMILY.

A Question After The Question: "Will You Join My Wedding Party?" | Woodloch Resort

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“A Question after THE Question: Will You Join My Bridal Party?”

~shared by J. Ranner

No, it’s not a dream. Exhale and relax.

You have just been proposed to and you graciously, albeit excitedly, said YES. Your phone calls have been made, parents and friends are sharing hugs, kisses and tears of joy. Maybe you’ve even had a little celebration or two… congratulations on your engagement!

It’s a happy time, but WOW, are you suddenly exhausted. And before you know it, what started with your simply answer of YES has now become an entirely new set of questions. Such as:

Where are we going to hold this wedding?
How many people are going to be invited?
Band or DJ? Maybe a little bit of both?
What’s on the cake? What sort of filling and frosting?
Ring Bearer, or Ring Bear?
What’s our budget for all of this?
What? Where? When? Why? And WHO?

Let’s cast the nitty gritty stuff to the side for a moment- we’ll let “future us” hem and haw about the details as we go. Instead, let’s keep the positivity train a-moving and focus our energies on WHO we are going to invite to be in groomsmen or bridesmaids! A proposal in and of itself, for sure!

Hopefully, WHO will be in your party won’t be too much of a question in itself. We know who’s been there for us, who we truly want to be at our side as we take the biggest plunge of our lives. The real opportunity for fun here exists in HOW we ask these special people to be a part of our weddings. Here are just a few ideas Woodloch Weddings has seen!

Proposal Goodie Bags or Gift Boxes – Say it with SWAG. Think of all the great things that you enjoy with your closest friends and box them up with a personalized note asking them to join your side. It can include items they may need for the wedding, including socks, cuff links, jewelry etc. Items can also include candles, personalized wine glasses, picture frames, cigars, jewelry, snacks, mixtapes, you name it- cost is totally irrelevant if it is coming straight from the heart. It’s a warming way to let someone know you care!

Surprise them at an Event – Get your crew together in the same place, at the same time. This can be difficult considering everyone’s work schedule, so preface it by saying it’s sort of important to make it there. Wine tastings, spa days, sporting events (can almost GUARANTEE your friends will take free tickets), even movie nights or dinners create the perfect opportunity for you to toast your friends and let them know they are invited to be a part of your special day. Wait for the perfect moment, and ask your question.

A Special Delivery – Maybe everyone can’t get together all at once. We are a globetrotting society, after all! If this is the case, why not use the power of postage to do your bidding? You can mail a special invitation card in the mail, but why not have some true fun with it? For the low low price of $12, you can carve your message into a potato and send it out. In the scheme of wedding planning, it’s a cheap laugh but one that will certainly be memorable. For those a little more traditional, ship a bottle of wine or beer to your pals with a note inviting them to join your party, and to take a drink if they agree and send back video confirmation via text message. It makes for a neat compilation for the couple to share with their adoring public.

Speaking of videos… maybe you have a little flair for movie production. We’ve seen it before- brides and grooms editing awesome proposal videos together. They range from hilarious (Mission Impossible Spoofs and Disney Tributes) to sweet and sentimental. Either way, it makes for a really awesome keepsake that is sure to tug on the heartstrings of all.

Keeping it simple – There’s nothing wrong with just saying something from the soul in person. Chase your crew down one by one, or gather everyone all at once, and just say what’s in your heart. You don’t have to be good at speeches- your friends and family love you for what you are, and that’s why you want them by your side. Find a bar, living room, park, wherever you can have a good conversation and just say it, baby!

Wedding planning is a process that’s a lot of work, but also supposed to be fun! Don’t deny yourself the once in a lifetime opportunity to really seize the moment and include your bridal party on your journey. You’ll be glad that you did.

Good luck with your endeavors (though we all know… it’s a YES regardless.)

Filed Under: Weddings Tagged With: bridesmaids, Proposals, weddings

Woodloch Proposal Ideas : 14 Ways to Leave Your Love… BREATHLESS | Woodloch Resort

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14 Ways to Leave Your Love… BREATHLESS

~shared by J. Ranner

The words will echo in my head, from now and probably until eternity. “Asking someone to marry you- that is THE MOST important decision anyone ever makes.”

Though I still haven’t popped the question, I’ll never forget the sincerity in which my dad dictated that advice.

So, if something is really THE most important question you’ll ever ask anyone in your life, I think it should go without saying that just as important is the way in which it is delivered. Should it be grand, loud and flooded with spectators? Or should it be sweet, simple and just the two of you? The answer is inevitably different for everyone. But I think that if you really took your time and really know your significant other, there is no doubt in my mind that you’ll just know what the right way to make it happen would be.

But… in case you’re overwhelmed with options and emotions, maybe a little bit nervous, or just starting to think of the perfect proposal, our Woodloch Weddings team has just a few suggestions from all the wonderful stories that have happened with couples at our resort.

As the adage goes: “we know a thing or two, because we’ve seen a thing or two.” With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, hearts are thumping love is running rampant through our souls, and something tells me we’re just about to see a couple more proposals happening soon enough!

1. Take them someplace special. Location, location, location- sometimes it’s just as easy as making sure the landscape is perfect for popping the question. It could be anywhere from the top of the tallest mountain to the coffee shop where you had your first date- as long as it’s special, or going to be special, to YOU. We’ve had many guests who have stayed with us even use Woodloch as their stage!

2. “My gift is my song, and this one’s for you.” There’s a reason that music holds such a special place with us- for me, it often helps me express myself when I might be having a hard time doing so. How amazing would it be for a surprise appearance from an acoustic guitarist, or even a string quartet, to play “your song” as you propose? Guaranteed happy tears.

3. Send them on THE hunt. If you’re playful and are willing to compromise the element of total surprise, maybe a little Scavenger Hunt would be in order! Map out all the locations close by that are special to you, and hide clues or mementos in each spot. Be waiting with a ring in the last stop.

4. Take out an ad. Maybe you enjoy reading the Sunday Times together. Or perhaps, every week you catch a flick at your local movie theater. Why not surprise your SO with a proposal ad? It is almost guaranteed to catch them off guard, and the newspaper provides a souvenir!

5. Involve the audience. Some like their proposals private and intimate- others just love having their best friends and family close to see it all play out! Having kin right in the mix allows for instant celebration- just be sure everyone keeps it on the down-low! Or, find a way to get on stage at a concert, start a flashmob dance routine, stand on top of a busy bar- the attention hungry will find a way to be noticed!

6. Simple and romantic. Call it an early day at the office, and head home early. Be your best romantic self- we are talking dressing up, using rose petals, lighting lots of candles, photo galleries and maybe a little Lionel Richie playing on Alexa. You’re in your own controlled environment where you should be 100% comfortable- and your honey will just melt.

7. “The Freeze Frame.” Ever experience something that sort of took your breath away? Double that feeling by taking that moment to propose. Skydiving. Riding in a Hot Air Balloon. Rowing through Venice, Italy. Seize the moment and make it exponentially better by popping the question! BONUS: consider hiring a photographer to capture that “WOW” moment. 99.7% guaranteed you’ll be glad that you did!

8. The Photo Session. Speaking of photographers, why not use one as a cover operation? Tell a little white lie and say that you’ve won a free couple’s photo session. Midsession, pull the ring out of our pocket and allow the photographer to catch it all on film. (Then, promptly pay the photographer for a job well-done!)

9. When they’re “the missing piece,” try “spelling it out.” Maybe the two of you enjoy a good jigsaw puzzle. Custom puzzles can be made online through multiple sources (including Shutterfly), so put your message onto the puzzle, then watch as your sweetie pies eyes light up in anticipation as they piece together “WILL YOU MARRY ME.” More of a board game aficionado? Do it all with games like Scrabble or Boggle!

10. Say it with food. It’s been said that the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Why quit a winner? Dining experiences can be a fun and surprising way to spring the question. Maybe drop the ring in a fancy glass of champagne at a 5-star Restaurant, front and center mixed in with a traditional heart shaped box of chocolates, or at the bottom of a Cracker Jack box. Just be sure they get their ring BEFORE they accidentally ingest it!

11. Help from furry friends. We all love our pets- they are an important part of the family. So if you trust your fuzzball, incorporate them into your proposal. Throw a bow tie on your cat and have the ring on his collar. Or have your dog fetch something special and bring it back to your soon to be fiancé. We know you love your animals- just be sure you TRUST them as well if you take this route!

12. Reverse the roles. Are you finding yourself waiting for hubby to come to their senses and ask? If you know that this person is THE ONE, why not take matters into your own hands? Pick any method at all and ask THEM to marry YOU.

13. “The Houdini.” The element of surprise will prove itself invaluable in planning a proposal, so you need to catch your boo off-guard. And there’s no better way to completely catch someone by surprise than by appearing out of thin air! You’ll find that family, friends, co-workers and maybe even total strangers will be willing to help. Make sure you’ve got a convincing alibi in place, then sweep them off their feet when they least expect it.

14. Tis the season. Everyone is with friends and loved ones, and spirits are just a little warmer this time of the year- why not roll with it? Make Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years a little more memorable by proposing on a holiday. Trim the tree, and then claim to have “one last ornament that really needs to go up.” Place an ornament with your proposal on the tree, then be ready for hugs and kisses. Ring in a New Year with a new beginning- just before the ball drops at midnight, bend the knee and watch their eyes light up!

These are all just a couple of suggestions and brainstorming tools for those of us deeply in love- and maybe the best option might be to combine a bunch of options! The important thing about your proposal is that it is YOU, it is THEM, it is sincere and it is done with LOVE!

Filed Under: Weddings Tagged With: destination weddings, poconos, Proposal, weddings

Poconos Wedding | Winter Wonderland Wedding in the Poconos

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Winter Wonderland Wedding in the Poconos

Whether you’re looking for a picturesque destination wedding, intimate elopement, or elegant vow renewal, the all-inclusive wedding packages at Woodloch Resort in the beautiful Pocono Mountains will help make your big day one for the ages. It’s common knowledge that most couples prefer a summer or fall wedding, but each season has pros and cons. The pearly-white winter season here in Pennsylvania is affordable, uncrowded, utterly romantic, and stunningly gorgeous. Say “I do” near a crackling fireplace, pose for photos in our snowy wonderland, and celebrate in a luxurious ballroom under candlelit chandeliers . . . A winter Poconos wedding at Woodloch is the perfect exclamation point to your first chapter as a married couple.

Tear-Jerking Ceremony

We cannot guarantee that the weather will be warm enough for an outdoor winter wedding, but it’s not impossible. We’ve held canopy weddings at Woodloch Springs, our breathtaking golf community. After reciting your heartfelt vows, return to Woodloch Pines in a carriage pulled by two majestic horses. The Mt. Laurel Room, a 4,000 square foot multi-purpose space, is the premier indoor ceremony location on the property. The room has original artwork, beautiful forest vistas, and the natural light that shines through ten-foot-tall windows. Most couples choose to say “I do” near the immense modern fireplace underneath the customizable chandeliers.

Elegant Reception

Woodloch Resort has over a dozen unique Poconos wedding reception halls to choose from across our massive resort, depending on the size of your guest list. Most couples choose between Mt. Laurel, Lakeview, and Vista & Terrace. The Lakeview Dining Room provides a built-in dance floor, walk-out patio, and Lake Teedyuskung vistas. The Vista & Terrace combination is highlighted by a vaulted, wood-planked ceiling, Pocono Mountain views, and elegant geometric windows. Let our culinary experts tailor a one-of-a-kind dinner for you and your hungry guests. We’ll also take care of the customized cake.

Relaxing Honeymoon

Our all-inclusive wedding packages eliminate all possible stress. Let our caring and experienced staff sweat over every detail while you relax and enjoy the beautiful winter wonderland! Simply choose a wedding package, and let our talented team go to work. We take care of all meals, accommodations, decor, and daily entertainment.

Poconos Wedding Venue

After tying the knot, start your honeymoon at Woodloch Resort by enjoying the many incredible onsite amenities. Get pampered at our world-class spa, dine at one of our elegant restaurants, ice skate under falling snow, and relax in a lavish suite. Schedule a tour by visiting our website or dialing 1-800-966-3562 – we cannot wait to help make your dreams come true!

Filed Under: Weddings, Winter Tagged With: destination weddings, wedding planning, weddings