FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Where should I get married?
Approximately 95% of all couples who have their wedding on the Scottsdale Mall grounds have it at the Marshall Garden (also known as the Rose Garden). This intimate setting has lovely flowers in bloom year-round and a softly flowing fountain in a sunken courtyard of red brick, shaded by overhanging trees. This space is ideal for a wedding of 200 people or less.
There are other site options for your wedding, depending on the number of guests expected and your personal needs and wishes. One example is the Mayer garden, a beautiful desert garden setting for an intimate wedding of 20 people or less.
The Fountain Stage is ideal for larger groups. This area is known for its grand focal point flagstone and brick stage in a sea of lush grass, flanked by vivid seasonal flowers on both sides.
We also offer the Overpass for fairly large parties. The Overpass provides a very open, beautifully tailored melding of decorative, majestic fountains amidst several different kinds of mature trees. The Love Sculpture is part of the Overpass.
And for the largest of groups, we offer the Amphitheater. This area is our prized water feature, a grand and modern open area intertwining modern art (the Nevelson sculpture) within the rolling grassy hills.
Please visit our website www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org/about_wedding for pictures.
Can we have a reception at the Park?
Yes, Scottsdale Cultural Council has a contract with preferred caterers that you may choose from (see Preferred Caterers list). Any liquor must be provided and served by the Scottsdale Cultural Council. For prices and availability please contact Jamie Prins at 480-874-4697 or JPrins@sccarts.org
When is payment due?
Payment is due 30 days from the date of the contract. If payment is not received, the Cultural Council shall have no other choice than to cancel your tentative reservation and make other arrangements for the date(s) held.
What address should I put on the invitations?
One example is:
Scottsdale Mall
(Your Venue)
7380 East Second Street
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
We can provide a helpful directional map for you to copy and include in each of your invitations. Contact Wendy at 480-874-4607 for electronic or hard copy.
Is electricity available?
Electricity is available, although you will need extension cords to access it from most sites. You will need a 75 foot extension cord to access it from the Marshall Garden. Accessible outlets are available at the base of most lamp posts. There are additional outlets located in electrical boxes throughout the park which are kept locked, so please give the Cultural Council at least a ten day notification if electricity is needed.
Will the area be cleaned before my wedding?
The Parks Department cleans the area on Friday afternoon. If you find the area unsightly prior to your ceremony, contact the staff at the Center for the Performing Arts for assistance. Staff will check the area regularly on busy weekends. You may call Larry Edmonds at 480-874-4603 or Wendy Thompson at 480-874-4607. As your last resort, please call Protection Services at 480-874-4648.
Will you rope off the area, or secure the space in some other manner?
In accordance with the Mall Ordinance, we cannot limit public access to the Scottsdale Mall in any way. We have never had a problem with patrons intruding or interrupting a wedding; and we have found that patrons keep a respectful distance from weddings and similar events. We avoid scheduling weddings during other outdoor events to help prevent any disturbances.
What kind and color of flowers will there be?
We apologize, but this is something that can not be foreseen. There are a few times during the year that the grounds are in transition and the freshly-planted flowers may not be in full bloom, however, the City's Parks Department makes every effort to coordinate those transitions around the popular wedding months. Also, they are aware of every scheduled wedding and will do everything they can to make the grounds as lovely as they can be.
Can I have live music?
Live music is permitted in the Scottsdale Mall. Please feel free to bring a band or instrumentalists with equipment. Please note that you may need additional equipment such as extension cords, amplifiers, microphones, etc. Also, if you are bringing anything that is difficult to move, keep in mind that we do not permit any vehicles on the Overpass area due to safety concerns. Call 480-874-4603 for details on how and where to unload heavy, difficult equipment for your event. Per City Ordinance, music must cease by 11 p.m. in the Scottsdale Mall.
What about tables and / or chairs?
The caterer for your event can assist with the set up for tables and chairs. You may also independently contract with another rental company, or bring equipment in yourselves. Equipment rental companies that are familiar with the rules and regulations on the park property include:
ProEm, Professional Event Management - Roger Mexin 602-763-8645 or 602-772-4288
Classic Party Rentals – 602-232-9900.
If you are worried about it raining during your event, be sure to ask the rental company about decorative awnings or canopies. Please also check with Larry Edmonds at 480-874-4603 to determine if your awning or canopy dimensions will adequately fit in the area you have rented.
Can I bring decorations?
Please feel free to decorate your venue. However, no stakes in the ground are permitted (for the sake of protecting the sprinkler pipes.) If you choose to bring candles, please make sure they are contained in a weighted glass container, preferably with sand, rocks, or marbles. If you have any questions about what is appropriate to bring, please call 480-874-4607.