The Toledo Zoo
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About This Vendor
About This Vendor
Toledo's destination wedding location...
Your guests can travel to faraway places, without ever leaving Toledo. Cocktails & hors d'oeuvres overlooking Africa, dinner in the Arctic, mingling near a Caribbean reef, dancing in Malawi next to a 73ft long fish tank, the zoo is your wedding getaway. With our all-inclusive packages & event staff, your wedding will be uniquely amazing!
Amenities & Details
Ceremony Area, Dressing Room, Handicap Accessible, Indoor Event Space, Liability Insurance, Outdoor Event Space, Reception Area, Wireless Internet
Guest Capacity300+
Ceremony TypesNon-Religious Ceremony, Second Wedding, Vow Renewal Ceremony
Venue Service OfferingsBar & Drinks, Food & Catering, Planning, Rentals & Equipment
SettingsBallroom, Garden, Historic Venue, Museum, Park
Business AttributesPricing for The Toledo Zoo
| Option | Value |
|---|---|
| Starting Cost | Moderate |
| Cost Starting | |
| Price Range | $10,650 - $13,200+ |
| Couples Usually Spend | $11,950 |
| Peak Season Months | May-October |
| Peak Season Cost | $10,650 - $13,200+ |
| Peak Season Reception Cost | $500 |
| Peak Season Ceremony Cost | $2,000 |
| Peak Season Bar Service Cost | $8 |
| OffSeason Months | January-April |
| OffSeason Cost | $10,650 - $13,200+ |
| OffSeason Reception Cost | $500 |
| OffSeason Ceremony Cost | $2,000 |
| OffSeason BarService Cost | $8 |
Browse The Toledo Zoo pricing PDF below for sample services and estimates.
View PricesThe Toledo Zoo Reviews
Sabrina Braunlich (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
So glad we went with the Toledo Zoo for our September wedding! Due to our size, we used the Malawi Center but it was an absolute stunning and unique venue that our guests are still talking about. We wanted to pick a venue that also supports conservation work and knew that when giving a lot of money to Toledo Zoo, it was going to a good purpose! Feeding giraffes was well worth the money too! We did have some communication issues with the Coordinator but overall, highly recommend!
Reviewed on 10-12-2023
So glad we went with the Toledo Zoo for our September wedding! Due to our size, we used the Malawi Center but it was an absolute stunning and unique venue that our guests are still talking about. We wanted to pick a venue that also supports conservation work and knew that when giving a lot of money to Toledo Zoo, it was going to a good purpose! Feeding giraffes was well worth the money too! We did have some communication issues with the Coordinator but overall, highly recommend!
Reviewed on 10-12-2023
Tanna Stricklen (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
10/10 venue
Reviewed on 23-10-2023
10/10 venue
Reviewed on 23-10-2023
Kaitlyn Plewniak (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
The zoo was wonderful to work with. They helped us to create our dream reception. We loved the animal package choices. The meals served are phenomenal.
Reviewed on 17-10-2023
The zoo was wonderful to work with. They helped us to create our dream reception. We loved the animal package choices. The meals served are phenomenal.
Reviewed on 17-10-2023
Emily Miller (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
The Toledo Zoo gave us an incredible and beautiful wedding experience! All the staff we interacted with were helpful and accommodating with every question and request we had. Our officiant even mentioned that the day-of coordinator was way more helpful than most other venue coordinators she's had to work with. Our ceremony was in the formal garden, which was a beautiful area that you don't need to worry about bringing extra decor. The reception was in the aquarium, which everyone absolutely loved. Everyone commented that is was such a beautiful and unique venue. The food was delicious too; we got so many compliments on every aspect of our Toledo Zoo wedding!
Reviewed on 12-07-2023
The Toledo Zoo gave us an incredible and beautiful wedding experience! All the staff we interacted with were helpful and accommodating with every question and request we had. Our officiant even mentioned that the day-of coordinator was way more helpful than most other venue coordinators she's had to work with. Our ceremony was in the formal garden, which was a beautiful area that you don't need to worry about bringing extra decor. The reception was in the aquarium, which everyone absolutely loved. Everyone commented that is was such a beautiful and unique venue. The food was delicious too; we got so many compliments on every aspect of our Toledo Zoo wedding!
Reviewed on 12-07-2023
Miranda Snyder (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
Gina and the team are amazing! We had over 300 people and it went off without a hitch. Our guests raved about the giraffe feeding and all for weeks following our wedding. We would HIGHLY recommend!
Reviewed on 29-06-2023
Gina and the team are amazing! We had over 300 people and it went off without a hitch. Our guests raved about the giraffe feeding and all for weeks following our wedding. We would HIGHLY recommend!
Reviewed on 29-06-2023
Erin Husting (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
We are so glad we had our wedding at the Toledo Zoo! All of our guests commented on how amazing our venue was and we got the most amazing pictures! The food was also so delicious! The staff (especially Gina and Alex) were very attentive, knowledgeable, and professional. In the weeks leading up the the wedding, Gina responded so almost all of my emails within half an hour. Additionally, as an LGBTQ couple, we found all of the staff to be incredible inclusive and professional! Overall we would 100% recommend having your wedding at the Toledo Zoo!
Reviewed on 12-06-2023
We are so glad we had our wedding at the Toledo Zoo! All of our guests commented on how amazing our venue was and we got the most amazing pictures! The food was also so delicious! The staff (especially Gina and Alex) were very attentive, knowledgeable, and professional. In the weeks leading up the the wedding, Gina responded so almost all of my emails within half an hour. Additionally, as an LGBTQ couple, we found all of the staff to be incredible inclusive and professional! Overall we would 100% recommend having your wedding at the Toledo Zoo!
Reviewed on 12-06-2023
Amanda Glass (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 27-05-2022
The Toledo Zoo staff did a fantastic job of making our wedding day the best it could be. We originally planned to have our ceremony in the rose garden but it was raining on the day of the rehearsal dinner so we practiced in the aquarium instead. The Zoo graciously let us have our ceremony in the aquarium on the day of even though the weather cleared up because we requested it since that was where we had rehearsed. Our reception was in the Great Hall. They were a huge help with planning and coordinating everything and making sure everything went off without a hitch. The food was decent. The serving staff and bar service were great. We also had a couple of zoo staff members with animals for our guests to interact with, which was a fun and unique experience for them. Our guests had a wonderful time and we are so happy with how well our day went!
Reviewed on 02-05-2023
Wedding Date 27-05-2022
The Toledo Zoo staff did a fantastic job of making our wedding day the best it could be. We originally planned to have our ceremony in the rose garden but it was raining on the day of the rehearsal dinner so we practiced in the aquarium instead. The Zoo graciously let us have our ceremony in the aquarium on the day of even though the weather cleared up because we requested it since that was where we had rehearsed. Our reception was in the Great Hall. They were a huge help with planning and coordinating everything and making sure everything went off without a hitch. The food was decent. The serving staff and bar service were great. We also had a couple of zoo staff members with animals for our guests to interact with, which was a fun and unique experience for them. Our guests had a wonderful time and we are so happy with how well our day went!
Reviewed on 02-05-2023
Jodi Livecchi (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 12-11-2022
My daughter had her wedding reception in the Malawi Center last weekend, and all I can say is WOW!! The staff was friendly, professional and accommodating to all our needs. The food was raved over by all the guests. The ambiance was unbelievable!! The Zoo Crew even helped set up all the tables so we could focus on getting ready, and they did a fabulous job!!! Cheers to the Toledo Zoo for making my daughter's reception over the top!!!
Reviewed on 17-11-2022
Wedding Date 12-11-2022
My daughter had her wedding reception in the Malawi Center last weekend, and all I can say is WOW!! The staff was friendly, professional and accommodating to all our needs. The food was raved over by all the guests. The ambiance was unbelievable!! The Zoo Crew even helped set up all the tables so we could focus on getting ready, and they did a fabulous job!!! Cheers to the Toledo Zoo for making my daughter's reception over the top!!!
Reviewed on 17-11-2022
Emma McClurg (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 05-11-2022
The zoo gave us the best possible wedding we could’ve EVER imagined!! They were kind and helpful and kept everything running smoothly from the time we booked, all the way to the wedding day! Rayann is so sweet and took all of my phone calls and questions and never made me feel like I was bothering her. Julia went above and beyond expectations and is a wizard when it comes to setting up decor! If you’re considering the zoo, do yourself a favor and BOOK IT
Reviewed on 14-11-2022
Wedding Date 05-11-2022
The zoo gave us the best possible wedding we could’ve EVER imagined!! They were kind and helpful and kept everything running smoothly from the time we booked, all the way to the wedding day! Rayann is so sweet and took all of my phone calls and questions and never made me feel like I was bothering her. Julia went above and beyond expectations and is a wizard when it comes to setting up decor! If you’re considering the zoo, do yourself a favor and BOOK IT
Reviewed on 14-11-2022
Veronica Livingstone (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 01-10-2022
We just had the most amazing wedding at the Toledo Zoo. We had the reception and the ceremony in the aquarium and everything was perfect. Multiple guests told me it was the coolest wedding they had ever been to.
Reviewed on 03-10-2022
Wedding Date 01-10-2022
We just had the most amazing wedding at the Toledo Zoo. We had the reception and the ceremony in the aquarium and everything was perfect. Multiple guests told me it was the coolest wedding they had ever been to.
Reviewed on 03-10-2022
Abby Hankenhof (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 09-07-2022
We loved this venue and so did our guests! The giraffe feeding was totally worth every penny! The food was really yummy and our guests (especially the kids) loved the fish tank. The cocktail hour was beautiful outside and the space inside is large but still intimate. Now that Rayann and a few assistants are on board, the communication is much better as well. She worked with us to make our vision come alive! We would 10/10 recommend this to other couples.The only downside is that the bathrooms are outside and the house level alcohol is very low quality (Popov for the house vodka) so we had to pay extra to upgrade our bar to Smirnoff, which is the house level vodka for most other places we were looking at.
Reviewed on 03-08-2022
Wedding Date 09-07-2022
We loved this venue and so did our guests! The giraffe feeding was totally worth every penny! The food was really yummy and our guests (especially the kids) loved the fish tank. The cocktail hour was beautiful outside and the space inside is large but still intimate. Now that Rayann and a few assistants are on board, the communication is much better as well. She worked with us to make our vision come alive! We would 10/10 recommend this to other couples.The only downside is that the bathrooms are outside and the house level alcohol is very low quality (Popov for the house vodka) so we had to pay extra to upgrade our bar to Smirnoff, which is the house level vodka for most other places we were looking at.
Reviewed on 03-08-2022
Alyssa Wlodarz (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 16-07-2022
Great experience! They made our wedding a breeze and we’re tons of help with setup and tear down included so we didn’t have to worry about a thing
Reviewed on 24-07-2022
Wedding Date 16-07-2022
Great experience! They made our wedding a breeze and we’re tons of help with setup and tear down included so we didn’t have to worry about a thing
Reviewed on 24-07-2022
Kate Quinlan (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-07-2022
We had such a great experience with Rayann and her team of coordinators at The Toledo Zoo for our wedding reception. They were attentive, easy to work with and incredibly professional – and they helped us to plan and implement a wedding reception in just four months! The Aquarium was a remarkable venue which wowed all of our out-of-town and local guests with its unique exhibits and glowing evening ambiance. The inclusive venue package was well worth the value with its planning services, outside vendor recommendations and management, food and beverage service and overall event coordination. We are thoroughly pleased to have had a flawless experience and memorable wedding reception at The Toledo Zoo and without hesitation, we absolutely recommend private events/wedding services at The Toledo Zoo.
Reviewed on 16-07-2022
Wedding Date 08-07-2022
We had such a great experience with Rayann and her team of coordinators at The Toledo Zoo for our wedding reception. They were attentive, easy to work with and incredibly professional – and they helped us to plan and implement a wedding reception in just four months! The Aquarium was a remarkable venue which wowed all of our out-of-town and local guests with its unique exhibits and glowing evening ambiance. The inclusive venue package was well worth the value with its planning services, outside vendor recommendations and management, food and beverage service and overall event coordination. We are thoroughly pleased to have had a flawless experience and memorable wedding reception at The Toledo Zoo and without hesitation, we absolutely recommend private events/wedding services at The Toledo Zoo.
Reviewed on 16-07-2022
Joe Howe (other) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 09-07-2022
I cannot properly express how well our event at The Toledo Zoo went. From the beginning in January until the wedding on July 9th, the communication was top notch. Rayann is amazing. She made perfect suggestions, kept in constant contact, and always supported the wedding planning with a great, positive, upbeat demeanor. Sara was awesome in taking over for Rayann during the actual event! All the staff, the caterers, the animal handlers, and support staff were incredible. I can highly recommend The Toledo Zoo for your next event!
Reviewed on 12-07-2022
Wedding Date 09-07-2022
I cannot properly express how well our event at The Toledo Zoo went. From the beginning in January until the wedding on July 9th, the communication was top notch. Rayann is amazing. She made perfect suggestions, kept in constant contact, and always supported the wedding planning with a great, positive, upbeat demeanor. Sara was awesome in taking over for Rayann during the actual event! All the staff, the caterers, the animal handlers, and support staff were incredible. I can highly recommend The Toledo Zoo for your next event!
Reviewed on 12-07-2022
Dom Shiple (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 24-06-2022
My wife and I are beyond pleased with the services we received from the Toledo Zoo for our wedding. Before the wedding, Rayann answered any and all questions thoroughly and in a timely manner. She was professional and accommodating when we goofed or mixed things up on our end. We were treated very well at the super fun menu tasting event. Our rehearsal went smoothly because of the patience and willingness of Rayann and Liv.And, the day of our wedding could not have gone smoother. Liv was a text away for any questions or last minute changes we made. We were completely stress free because we did not have to set up any of our decorations. We were ecstatic with the way our decorations were set up because they were beautiful; they followed what we wanted and went above and beyond with any leftover materials to make the space absolutely gorgeous. The food was amazing.We could not have asked for better people or a better venue. If you want to enjoy your wedding planning experience and have a perfect wedding day, book with the Toledo Zoo.
Reviewed on 03-07-2022
Wedding Date 24-06-2022
My wife and I are beyond pleased with the services we received from the Toledo Zoo for our wedding. Before the wedding, Rayann answered any and all questions thoroughly and in a timely manner. She was professional and accommodating when we goofed or mixed things up on our end. We were treated very well at the super fun menu tasting event. Our rehearsal went smoothly because of the patience and willingness of Rayann and Liv.And, the day of our wedding could not have gone smoother. Liv was a text away for any questions or last minute changes we made. We were completely stress free because we did not have to set up any of our decorations. We were ecstatic with the way our decorations were set up because they were beautiful; they followed what we wanted and went above and beyond with any leftover materials to make the space absolutely gorgeous. The food was amazing.We could not have asked for better people or a better venue. If you want to enjoy your wedding planning experience and have a perfect wedding day, book with the Toledo Zoo.
Reviewed on 03-07-2022
Matt Sinclair (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 11-06-2022
The Malawi Event Center at the Toledo Zoo provided the most amazing backdrop imaginable for our special day! There were the obvious pros like the 70 foot long fish tank behind the head table, the giraffe encounter, and the fabulous Botanical Garden pictures. But there were numerous other aspects that the Zoo provided that helped make our day exactly what we wanted. We were a COVID rescheduled wedding, and the wedding coordinator Rayann worked with us every step of the way to ensure that we were never left behind. Our Day-of coordinator Sara met us the day before for item drop-off, and ensured that our day ran exactly as planned. The Zoo collaborated incredibly well with all of our vendors, and made sure that each had all the space and resources they needed to be successful. Speaking of collaboration, we utilized Your Perfect Day as our Wedding Coordinator as well, and the communication and professionalism of both entities made for a perfectly efficient duo. We also hosted our Ceremony on-site, and felt that the venue provided exactly what we were looking for. Lastly, we had dozens of compliments from guests on the food that the Zoo provided.If I could give the Zoo 10/10 I would. Every single guest we spoke with complimented the amazing atmosphere and the unique experience that they were treated to. We were even told by a Mother that this was her six year old boy's first ever wedding, and he is now excited to go to all future weddings.
Reviewed on 24-06-2022
Wedding Date 11-06-2022
The Malawi Event Center at the Toledo Zoo provided the most amazing backdrop imaginable for our special day! There were the obvious pros like the 70 foot long fish tank behind the head table, the giraffe encounter, and the fabulous Botanical Garden pictures. But there were numerous other aspects that the Zoo provided that helped make our day exactly what we wanted. We were a COVID rescheduled wedding, and the wedding coordinator Rayann worked with us every step of the way to ensure that we were never left behind. Our Day-of coordinator Sara met us the day before for item drop-off, and ensured that our day ran exactly as planned. The Zoo collaborated incredibly well with all of our vendors, and made sure that each had all the space and resources they needed to be successful. Speaking of collaboration, we utilized Your Perfect Day as our Wedding Coordinator as well, and the communication and professionalism of both entities made for a perfectly efficient duo. We also hosted our Ceremony on-site, and felt that the venue provided exactly what we were looking for. Lastly, we had dozens of compliments from guests on the food that the Zoo provided.If I could give the Zoo 10/10 I would. Every single guest we spoke with complimented the amazing atmosphere and the unique experience that they were treated to. We were even told by a Mother that this was her six year old boy's first ever wedding, and he is now excited to go to all future weddings.
Reviewed on 24-06-2022
Lindsay Walter (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 04-06-2022
I had my wedding reception in the Malawi center. It was beyond perfect. The whole planning process was made so easy by the Zoo staff! Everyone was amazing and very attentive. Rayann and Alivia are amazing people to work with. I did not have to worry at all about anything. All the guests were in awe when walking in! The cocktail hour was on the terrace by the African animals and the guests still have not stopped talking about how cool that was! I cannot thank them enough for a perfect day!
Reviewed on 06-06-2022
Wedding Date 04-06-2022
I had my wedding reception in the Malawi center. It was beyond perfect. The whole planning process was made so easy by the Zoo staff! Everyone was amazing and very attentive. Rayann and Alivia are amazing people to work with. I did not have to worry at all about anything. All the guests were in awe when walking in! The cocktail hour was on the terrace by the African animals and the guests still have not stopped talking about how cool that was! I cannot thank them enough for a perfect day!
Reviewed on 06-06-2022
Jeffrey Vernon (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 07-05-2022
We could not have been happier with our wedding at The Toledo Zoo! Every person on their team was so helpful! Any questions we had throughout the entire planning process were quickly answered. Having a day-of coordinator made our wedding day a breeze - she took away so much stress, making sure we didn't have to worry, and was willing to help with anything needed. Even having to make a last minute switch from the Formal Garden to the Aquarium due to rain was no big deal because they handled everything! The whole experience from start to finish was 10/10. All of our guests raved about the food (and they were being genuine)! The catering staff was so friendly and did an excellent job keeping up with everything. There is nothing bad that we could say about our experience! Both of our families have been loyal zoo members since we can remember, and our amazing wedding just adds another reason to the list of why we love the zoo so much.
Reviewed on 17-05-2022
Wedding Date 07-05-2022
We could not have been happier with our wedding at The Toledo Zoo! Every person on their team was so helpful! Any questions we had throughout the entire planning process were quickly answered. Having a day-of coordinator made our wedding day a breeze - she took away so much stress, making sure we didn't have to worry, and was willing to help with anything needed. Even having to make a last minute switch from the Formal Garden to the Aquarium due to rain was no big deal because they handled everything! The whole experience from start to finish was 10/10. All of our guests raved about the food (and they were being genuine)! The catering staff was so friendly and did an excellent job keeping up with everything. There is nothing bad that we could say about our experience! Both of our families have been loyal zoo members since we can remember, and our amazing wedding just adds another reason to the list of why we love the zoo so much.
Reviewed on 17-05-2022
Ashley Beesley (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 23-04-2022
We had an amazing wedding day and the team at the Zoo did such a great job. They were professional, punctual, and very kind. The day went exactly as planned. They kept me in the loop and listened to all my requests. We are so happy that we picked the aquarium and the Toledo Zoo team!
Reviewed on 30-04-2022
Wedding Date 23-04-2022
We had an amazing wedding day and the team at the Zoo did such a great job. They were professional, punctual, and very kind. The day went exactly as planned. They kept me in the loop and listened to all my requests. We are so happy that we picked the aquarium and the Toledo Zoo team!
Reviewed on 30-04-2022
Samantha Cox (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 12-02-2022
Everything was absolutely perfect. The Toledo Zoo was so easy to work with in planning our wedding and we couldn’t have asked for a better day. The food was amazing, staff and the coordinator (Rayann) were just great. Thank you for being part of our day!!
Reviewed on 02-03-2022
Wedding Date 12-02-2022
Everything was absolutely perfect. The Toledo Zoo was so easy to work with in planning our wedding and we couldn’t have asked for a better day. The food was amazing, staff and the coordinator (Rayann) were just great. Thank you for being part of our day!!
Reviewed on 02-03-2022
Courtney Bryant (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-01-2022
We got married at the Zoo on 1/8/22 and it was fantastic from beginning to end. Guest are still raving about the food! Rayann was always available to answer any question I had no matter how small. I 100% recommend using this venue!
Reviewed on 26-01-2022
Wedding Date 08-01-2022
We got married at the Zoo on 1/8/22 and it was fantastic from beginning to end. Guest are still raving about the food! Rayann was always available to answer any question I had no matter how small. I 100% recommend using this venue!
Reviewed on 26-01-2022
Jessie Minard (bride) 4 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 31-07-2021
This is a really fun venue, and we would highly recommend it. Additionally, our guests all seemed to have a great time. The giraffes, in particular, were a huge hit and the fish in the Malawi Center are mesmerizing. The zoo went through three different wedding coordinators from when we booked the venue until our wedding, just over a year later. Consequently, communication was sometimes a challenge, and sometimes we would hear conflicting information. We did find all the coordinators to be kind and respectful, but it seems like the Toledo Zoo would benefit from making sure that these individuals receive more extensive training/support when they transition into this role. There are a few areas we think the Zoo could improve to help make the experience even smoother, effective, and stress-free- 1- Have getting ready areas on both sides of the zoo, as there are wedding venues on both sides of the zoo. For instance, our wedding was at the Malawi Event Center, and we were told the only place to get ready was in the Aquarium for the girls and the Great Hall for the boys, which are both on the complete other side of the zoo. Our photographer mentioned that he had seen other brides get ready in a location closer to the Malawi center, but we were never told this was an option. Additionally, in the getting ready area, it would be helpful to have a higher hanging closet since the wedding dress and all the bridesmaid dresses were long.2- We found the parking situation to cause extra unneeded stress. We were told that everyone besides the 1-2 vehicles transporting decorations had to park in the main zoo parking lot. The getting ready location is on the other side of the zoo and has a parking lot (Broadway) in very close proximity. We were told that we were not allowed to leave cars there. We were allowed to park there to bring in materials, but then would have to move the cars. When getting ready for a wedding, it is ideal not to have to be walking all over the zoo and getting hot and sweaty (especially in the summer). We also had grandmothers with us, so we didn’t want to have them to walk too far as well. Since we didn’t have access to the golf carts yet, we had to create plans for family to transport the bridal party from the main lot to Broadway entrance. This is definitely a logistical challenge that the zoo needs to address. 3- Allow the participants to use the golf carts earlier than 5:15 pm (for a 6 pm start time). You do receive one free golf which holds five guests and the driver, but each additional one costs $250. We bought two golf carts to accommodate the size of our wedding party, since we were getting ready on the other side of the zoo. We asked to start using the golf carts at 5 pm so that we could use them for pictures and were told no. When you pay so much money for a helpful feature, it would be nice if they were truly accessible, since it is pretty common to take pictures ahead of the event. Additionally, after our ceremony, when we were trying to take pictures quickly, we had to wait for a little while until the golf carts to be radioed and sent over. Instead of wasting time waiting for them when you’re generally on a limited time schedule, have the golf carts right there waiting. Overall, this venue is a really neat place for a wedding, but they could work through some of their current policies and practices to make it better.
Reviewed on 05-08-2021
Wedding Date 31-07-2021
This is a really fun venue, and we would highly recommend it. Additionally, our guests all seemed to have a great time. The giraffes, in particular, were a huge hit and the fish in the Malawi Center are mesmerizing. The zoo went through three different wedding coordinators from when we booked the venue until our wedding, just over a year later. Consequently, communication was sometimes a challenge, and sometimes we would hear conflicting information. We did find all the coordinators to be kind and respectful, but it seems like the Toledo Zoo would benefit from making sure that these individuals receive more extensive training/support when they transition into this role. There are a few areas we think the Zoo could improve to help make the experience even smoother, effective, and stress-free- 1- Have getting ready areas on both sides of the zoo, as there are wedding venues on both sides of the zoo. For instance, our wedding was at the Malawi Event Center, and we were told the only place to get ready was in the Aquarium for the girls and the Great Hall for the boys, which are both on the complete other side of the zoo. Our photographer mentioned that he had seen other brides get ready in a location closer to the Malawi center, but we were never told this was an option. Additionally, in the getting ready area, it would be helpful to have a higher hanging closet since the wedding dress and all the bridesmaid dresses were long.2- We found the parking situation to cause extra unneeded stress. We were told that everyone besides the 1-2 vehicles transporting decorations had to park in the main zoo parking lot. The getting ready location is on the other side of the zoo and has a parking lot (Broadway) in very close proximity. We were told that we were not allowed to leave cars there. We were allowed to park there to bring in materials, but then would have to move the cars. When getting ready for a wedding, it is ideal not to have to be walking all over the zoo and getting hot and sweaty (especially in the summer). We also had grandmothers with us, so we didn’t want to have them to walk too far as well. Since we didn’t have access to the golf carts yet, we had to create plans for family to transport the bridal party from the main lot to Broadway entrance. This is definitely a logistical challenge that the zoo needs to address. 3- Allow the participants to use the golf carts earlier than 5:15 pm (for a 6 pm start time). You do receive one free golf which holds five guests and the driver, but each additional one costs $250. We bought two golf carts to accommodate the size of our wedding party, since we were getting ready on the other side of the zoo. We asked to start using the golf carts at 5 pm so that we could use them for pictures and were told no. When you pay so much money for a helpful feature, it would be nice if they were truly accessible, since it is pretty common to take pictures ahead of the event. Additionally, after our ceremony, when we were trying to take pictures quickly, we had to wait for a little while until the golf carts to be radioed and sent over. Instead of wasting time waiting for them when you’re generally on a limited time schedule, have the golf carts right there waiting. Overall, this venue is a really neat place for a wedding, but they could work through some of their current policies and practices to make it better.
Reviewed on 05-08-2021
Makenzie Dorring (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 15-05-2021
I cannot say enough amazing things about the Toledo Zoo. Kaylie and Sarah worked so hard to make everything perfect for our ceremony and reception. Worth every penny & more!
Reviewed on 17-05-2021
Wedding Date 15-05-2021
I cannot say enough amazing things about the Toledo Zoo. Kaylie and Sarah worked so hard to make everything perfect for our ceremony and reception. Worth every penny & more!
Reviewed on 17-05-2021
Jessica Quillen (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 12-10-2019
We could not have imagined a smoother, more enjoyable wedding planning and day experience. Lexie was wonderful to work with throughout, and always answered questions thoroughly in a timely manner! We are also thankful for Kaitlyn, making sure rehearsal and the day of went nicely. The Formal Gardens were beautiful and the Great Hall in the Museum of Science is magical. The venue and people at the zoo provided us with an incredible wedding, and we are incredibly grateful.
Reviewed on 30-10-2019
Wedding Date 12-10-2019
We could not have imagined a smoother, more enjoyable wedding planning and day experience. Lexie was wonderful to work with throughout, and always answered questions thoroughly in a timely manner! We are also thankful for Kaitlyn, making sure rehearsal and the day of went nicely. The Formal Gardens were beautiful and the Great Hall in the Museum of Science is magical. The venue and people at the zoo provided us with an incredible wedding, and we are incredibly grateful.
Reviewed on 30-10-2019
Carrie Lee Lemieux (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 19-10-2019
5 stars!!! This venue was amazing in every way and perfectly executed my jungle themed wedding. Set up was fantastic, great food great bar. The Africa Overlook cocktail hour outside of the Malawi event reception space was a hit with all of our guests! They loved feeding the giraffes, riding the train, and riding the carousel. Lexie F was absolutely phenomenal. Very easy to work with and friendly. Thank you for making this a day I will never forget.
Reviewed on 22-10-2019
Wedding Date 19-10-2019
5 stars!!! This venue was amazing in every way and perfectly executed my jungle themed wedding. Set up was fantastic, great food great bar. The Africa Overlook cocktail hour outside of the Malawi event reception space was a hit with all of our guests! They loved feeding the giraffes, riding the train, and riding the carousel. Lexie F was absolutely phenomenal. Very easy to work with and friendly. Thank you for making this a day I will never forget.
Reviewed on 22-10-2019
Veronica Trinidad (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 28-09-2019
Our wedding at the zoo was amazing. Lexie answered every question and addressed every concern. She gave us recommendation which were greatly appreciated.
Reviewed on 17-10-2019
Wedding Date 28-09-2019
Our wedding at the zoo was amazing. Lexie answered every question and addressed every concern. She gave us recommendation which were greatly appreciated.
Reviewed on 17-10-2019
Cassie Decker (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 21-09-2019
The Toledo Zoo is nothing short of amazing! Every review we read prior to booking the zoo that complimented them on their prompt and pleasant coordination for planning, day of presentation, and endless list of options to make your reception truly special and unique all turned out to be true. Our reception was held in the Museum of Natural History and it is such a unique and gorgeous venue. Lexie is a wonderful coordinator who truly cares about each of her couples. The zoo catering staff was spot on and went above and beyond to make sure everything was correct. We have had SO MANY compliments on both the food served and the atmosphere and space. We LOVE our zoo!
Reviewed on 15-10-2019
Wedding Date 21-09-2019
The Toledo Zoo is nothing short of amazing! Every review we read prior to booking the zoo that complimented them on their prompt and pleasant coordination for planning, day of presentation, and endless list of options to make your reception truly special and unique all turned out to be true. Our reception was held in the Museum of Natural History and it is such a unique and gorgeous venue. Lexie is a wonderful coordinator who truly cares about each of her couples. The zoo catering staff was spot on and went above and beyond to make sure everything was correct. We have had SO MANY compliments on both the food served and the atmosphere and space. We LOVE our zoo!
Reviewed on 15-10-2019
Chelsea Schwab (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 07-09-2019
LOOK NO MORE! The Toledo Zoo- Malawi Center exceeded my every wish for our wedding! Lexie Finnegan is the most amazing, organized, helpful, selfless wedding planner. She went FAR above and beyond helping out my mom and I plan. I miss her actually! The giraffe feeding was unforgettable, the food delicious, the facility immaculately clean, the cocktail hour lovely. This is a MUST for your venue. Your guests will talk about your wedding and how unique and stunning it was forever. Lexie- thank you for making the best day of my life so easy and perfect!
Reviewed on 14-10-2019
Wedding Date 07-09-2019
LOOK NO MORE! The Toledo Zoo- Malawi Center exceeded my every wish for our wedding! Lexie Finnegan is the most amazing, organized, helpful, selfless wedding planner. She went FAR above and beyond helping out my mom and I plan. I miss her actually! The giraffe feeding was unforgettable, the food delicious, the facility immaculately clean, the cocktail hour lovely. This is a MUST for your venue. Your guests will talk about your wedding and how unique and stunning it was forever. Lexie- thank you for making the best day of my life so easy and perfect!
Reviewed on 14-10-2019
Megan Gray (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 30-08-2019
Choosing The Toledo Zoo for our wedding and reception was the best choice we made. Lexie was very easy to work with and made or wedding day so easy, we didn’t have to worry about anything!
Reviewed on 06-10-2019
Wedding Date 30-08-2019
Choosing The Toledo Zoo for our wedding and reception was the best choice we made. Lexie was very easy to work with and made or wedding day so easy, we didn’t have to worry about anything!
Reviewed on 06-10-2019
Ellie Mallardi (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 06-07-2019
Wonderfully organized and on top of any questions requests you might have! Lexie was wonderful to work with and we threw so many unique requests at her and she handled everything promptly and with expertise! It was a breeze to plan our wedding from out of the state because we were working with her. The Malawi center is beautiful! The staff were so friendly and helpful! So much is included with their packages, you really can't go wrong here!
Reviewed on 02-09-2019
Wedding Date 06-07-2019
Wonderfully organized and on top of any questions requests you might have! Lexie was wonderful to work with and we threw so many unique requests at her and she handled everything promptly and with expertise! It was a breeze to plan our wedding from out of the state because we were working with her. The Malawi center is beautiful! The staff were so friendly and helpful! So much is included with their packages, you really can't go wrong here!
Reviewed on 02-09-2019
Greg Shankie (groom) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 17-06-2019
Lexi and her crew were so nice and accommodating, they helped make our wedding a wonderful experience.
Reviewed on 30-08-2019
Wedding Date 17-06-2019
Lexi and her crew were so nice and accommodating, they helped make our wedding a wonderful experience.
Reviewed on 30-08-2019
Kelly Tibbits (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 19-01-2019
Having our wedding at The Toledo Zoo was perfect and better than we even imagined- even if it happened in the middle of a snow storm! We had our first date here + were engaged here, so we picked to get married here! The aquarium was beautiful and worked out perfectly for us! Lexie was extremely professional, always responsive and made our day run smoothly from beginning to end. The zoo staff were helpful, kind and polite. The food was delicious, and the service was even better! I can’t recommend the zoo enough. All of the wedding venue options are beautiful and unique! If we had to redo our entire day over again, the zoo would still be our #1 choice!
Reviewed on 11-03-2019
Wedding Date 19-01-2019
Having our wedding at The Toledo Zoo was perfect and better than we even imagined- even if it happened in the middle of a snow storm! We had our first date here + were engaged here, so we picked to get married here! The aquarium was beautiful and worked out perfectly for us! Lexie was extremely professional, always responsive and made our day run smoothly from beginning to end. The zoo staff were helpful, kind and polite. The food was delicious, and the service was even better! I can’t recommend the zoo enough. All of the wedding venue options are beautiful and unique! If we had to redo our entire day over again, the zoo would still be our #1 choice!
Reviewed on 11-03-2019
Bobbie-Jo Newman-Buchanan (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 20-10-2018
Very helpful, all staff was very friendly, set-up and clean up was excellent.
Reviewed on 13-12-2018
Wedding Date 20-10-2018
Very helpful, all staff was very friendly, set-up and clean up was excellent.
Reviewed on 13-12-2018
Janice Beck (parent) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 27-10-2018
This is a fabulous venue for a wedding and Lexie, the event coordinator ensured that all or our requests were honored.
Reviewed on 04-11-2018
Wedding Date 27-10-2018
This is a fabulous venue for a wedding and Lexie, the event coordinator ensured that all or our requests were honored.
Reviewed on 04-11-2018
Kristi Sulewski (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 06-10-2018
My husband and I love the Toledo Zoo and so it was the perfect place for us to get married at. We live in Texas now, so we needed a place that would take care of everything! The only thing my husband and I had to get outside of the zoo was our DJ, photographer, and officiant. We got married in front of the elephant exhibit and had the reception in the aquarium. All the guests loved the elephant that came out behind us during the ceremony and loved all the aquariums as a backdrop. Also, Lexie, one of the zoos wedding planners, was amazing!! She always responded to my emails in a timely manner and was patient with my busy teaching schedule, and a time zone difference, when I had to respond back. If you get the chance to get married at the Toledo Zoo, do it! I am so lucky to have been a stress-free bride and my husband and I both got to enjoy our wedding day.
Reviewed on 21-10-2018
Wedding Date 06-10-2018
My husband and I love the Toledo Zoo and so it was the perfect place for us to get married at. We live in Texas now, so we needed a place that would take care of everything! The only thing my husband and I had to get outside of the zoo was our DJ, photographer, and officiant. We got married in front of the elephant exhibit and had the reception in the aquarium. All the guests loved the elephant that came out behind us during the ceremony and loved all the aquariums as a backdrop. Also, Lexie, one of the zoos wedding planners, was amazing!! She always responded to my emails in a timely manner and was patient with my busy teaching schedule, and a time zone difference, when I had to respond back. If you get the chance to get married at the Toledo Zoo, do it! I am so lucky to have been a stress-free bride and my husband and I both got to enjoy our wedding day.
Reviewed on 21-10-2018
Chelsea Damschroder (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-09-2018
The Toledo Zoo was the most perfect venue for our wedding reception and I am SO happy we chose this location! Lexie was great to work with and very accommodating. The Malawi Center is absolutely GORGEOUS and was large enough to fit our 350 guests comfortably. The dance floor was packed all night, yet there was plenty of space for guests to bust a move! We were unable to feed the giraffes because of the rain, but I still think it was just amazing that they were able to offer that service during cocktail hour! We were, however, able to ride the carousel and got some pretty wonderful pictures and our guests loved it! On top of the beautiful, fun location--the food was to die for! Our guests raved about how delicious the food was. Plus, there are SO many options for your menu, so even the pickiest of eaters can be satisfied :) I cannot say enough good things about The Toledo Zoo and I would definitely recommend this venue to anyone!
Reviewed on 15-10-2018
Wedding Date 08-09-2018
The Toledo Zoo was the most perfect venue for our wedding reception and I am SO happy we chose this location! Lexie was great to work with and very accommodating. The Malawi Center is absolutely GORGEOUS and was large enough to fit our 350 guests comfortably. The dance floor was packed all night, yet there was plenty of space for guests to bust a move! We were unable to feed the giraffes because of the rain, but I still think it was just amazing that they were able to offer that service during cocktail hour! We were, however, able to ride the carousel and got some pretty wonderful pictures and our guests loved it! On top of the beautiful, fun location--the food was to die for! Our guests raved about how delicious the food was. Plus, there are SO many options for your menu, so even the pickiest of eaters can be satisfied :) I cannot say enough good things about The Toledo Zoo and I would definitely recommend this venue to anyone!
Reviewed on 15-10-2018
Samantha Kitson (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 11-08-2018
The Toledo Zoo was AMAZING at making my wedding dreams come true. The staff is wonderful and very receptive. I sent probably a hundred emails asking questions but they were so wonderful in helping me stay calm and allowing me to have the best wedding ever. The Malawi Pavilion is so beautiful and such a wonderful event center for weddings!
Reviewed on 03-10-2018
Wedding Date 11-08-2018
The Toledo Zoo was AMAZING at making my wedding dreams come true. The staff is wonderful and very receptive. I sent probably a hundred emails asking questions but they were so wonderful in helping me stay calm and allowing me to have the best wedding ever. The Malawi Pavilion is so beautiful and such a wonderful event center for weddings!
Reviewed on 03-10-2018
Kaitlyn B (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 25-08-2018
The Zoo was awesome to work with! Our wedding was perfect and our guests loved our venue! The garden was a beautiful spot for our ceremony and our guests loved feeding the giraffes at our reception.
Reviewed on 09-09-2018
Wedding Date 25-08-2018
The Zoo was awesome to work with! Our wedding was perfect and our guests loved our venue! The garden was a beautiful spot for our ceremony and our guests loved feeding the giraffes at our reception.
Reviewed on 09-09-2018
Laura Dettinger (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 30-09-2017
The Zoo was amazing to work with and helped us have the wedding of our dreams. Jenn Carson (Maher), is an asset to the Zoo’s wedding department, and was my saving grace during the planning process. On our first meeting with Jenn/the Zoo, we fell in love with her personality and the gardens/aquarium. Jenn answered every call and email promptly, recommended vendors when asked (but never pushed them on us), and was very accommodating – like when we needed a special tasting because I was out of town for work over the main one, or when my dad flew in from South FL and wanted to see the venue at 10am on a Sunday. Despite the fact that it was the 2nd day of the fall lantern event, and two other weddings were taking place at the zoo on our day, it seemed like every time I needed or wanted something, Jenn or Lexi was there to make sure it happened. Even my three (married) bridesmaids commented on how amazing Jenn was and wished they had someone like her on their day. A few notes about the venue itself. We did our ceremony in the gardens, which produced some amazing photos as it was Sept. 30th, and everything was in full color bloom. We got lucky and had great weather - 66 and sunny. Our reception was in the Aquarium – which everyone is still commenting on how awesome the venue was. Our guests loved getting a private look at all of the animals in the aquarium and use of the touch tank. It also allowed us to have fun with our decor. The Zoo’s food is amazing, and you can’t beat the price of it, or the premium bar. You also get amazing photos with animals around the zoo – I am obsessed with Flamingos, so Lexis got us and our photographer private use of the Flamingo deck for some photos. We also have a photo with us and the bridal party feeding giraffes, which is probably one of my favorite. Overall, I cannot say enough good things about Jenn, Lexi, and the Zoo. But I will end with this (for those tracking the budget): We ended up under budget and had the best wedding ever.
Reviewed on 19-12-2017
Wedding Date 30-09-2017
The Zoo was amazing to work with and helped us have the wedding of our dreams. Jenn Carson (Maher), is an asset to the Zoo’s wedding department, and was my saving grace during the planning process. On our first meeting with Jenn/the Zoo, we fell in love with her personality and the gardens/aquarium. Jenn answered every call and email promptly, recommended vendors when asked (but never pushed them on us), and was very accommodating – like when we needed a special tasting because I was out of town for work over the main one, or when my dad flew in from South FL and wanted to see the venue at 10am on a Sunday. Despite the fact that it was the 2nd day of the fall lantern event, and two other weddings were taking place at the zoo on our day, it seemed like every time I needed or wanted something, Jenn or Lexi was there to make sure it happened. Even my three (married) bridesmaids commented on how amazing Jenn was and wished they had someone like her on their day. A few notes about the venue itself. We did our ceremony in the gardens, which produced some amazing photos as it was Sept. 30th, and everything was in full color bloom. We got lucky and had great weather - 66 and sunny. Our reception was in the Aquarium – which everyone is still commenting on how awesome the venue was. Our guests loved getting a private look at all of the animals in the aquarium and use of the touch tank. It also allowed us to have fun with our decor. The Zoo’s food is amazing, and you can’t beat the price of it, or the premium bar. You also get amazing photos with animals around the zoo – I am obsessed with Flamingos, so Lexis got us and our photographer private use of the Flamingo deck for some photos. We also have a photo with us and the bridal party feeding giraffes, which is probably one of my favorite. Overall, I cannot say enough good things about Jenn, Lexi, and the Zoo. But I will end with this (for those tracking the budget): We ended up under budget and had the best wedding ever.
Reviewed on 19-12-2017
Robin Miller (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 04-11-2017
Ohhh my goodness, where do I even start??? From the first moment we toured the zoo as a prospective wedding location, Jenn made us feel so welcome and really showed us the possibilities of the zoo! She was so enthusiastic about all of our offbeat ideas (read: bouncy castle) and helped us make the whole thing a reality! It felt like she was just as excited about my wedding as I was! I'm a huge planner, but by the time the wedding rolled around, I was able to let go and enjoy with total confidence, knowing that Jenn and Lexie were there to keep everything going smoothly! We were in the new Malawi center (opened this year) and the guests could not have been more impressed with the space! The food was delicious and came out promptly, and they scheduled all the deliveries (cake, flowers, and bouncy castle) so I didn't have to be the middle man! I grew up in Toledo going to the zoo and my husband is a biologist, so the zoo made perfect sense, but it was made even more perfect by all the hard work, kindness, and enthusiasm of their staff. Thank you!!
Reviewed on 06-11-2017
Wedding Date 04-11-2017
Ohhh my goodness, where do I even start??? From the first moment we toured the zoo as a prospective wedding location, Jenn made us feel so welcome and really showed us the possibilities of the zoo! She was so enthusiastic about all of our offbeat ideas (read: bouncy castle) and helped us make the whole thing a reality! It felt like she was just as excited about my wedding as I was! I'm a huge planner, but by the time the wedding rolled around, I was able to let go and enjoy with total confidence, knowing that Jenn and Lexie were there to keep everything going smoothly! We were in the new Malawi center (opened this year) and the guests could not have been more impressed with the space! The food was delicious and came out promptly, and they scheduled all the deliveries (cake, flowers, and bouncy castle) so I didn't have to be the middle man! I grew up in Toledo going to the zoo and my husband is a biologist, so the zoo made perfect sense, but it was made even more perfect by all the hard work, kindness, and enthusiasm of their staff. Thank you!!
Reviewed on 06-11-2017
Shawna Callaghan (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 23-09-2017
I cannot say enough great things about the Toledo Zoo. We had our reception at the Malawi event center and it was beyond perfect. The cocktail hour on the African overlook was amazing. Pictures of our guest on the train and with the sunsetting over the African overlook were some of my favorite. But most importantly EVERYONE commented on how great the food was !!! Also planning our wedding at the zoo was such a wonderful experience. Jenn was the best!! She was so friendly professional and helpful. She never let me stress about anything. She is genuinely so much fun and easy to work with. I could not dream of a better wedding coordinator. The zoo staff set up the all of the reception decor and I could not believe how amazing it looked. So much better then I even imagined. The Malawi Event Center is amazing and the huge fish tank in the center makes for amazing backdrop for the head table and guest. I really can't thank all of the staff involved enough they were the best!
Reviewed on 31-10-2017
Wedding Date 23-09-2017
I cannot say enough great things about the Toledo Zoo. We had our reception at the Malawi event center and it was beyond perfect. The cocktail hour on the African overlook was amazing. Pictures of our guest on the train and with the sunsetting over the African overlook were some of my favorite. But most importantly EVERYONE commented on how great the food was !!! Also planning our wedding at the zoo was such a wonderful experience. Jenn was the best!! She was so friendly professional and helpful. She never let me stress about anything. She is genuinely so much fun and easy to work with. I could not dream of a better wedding coordinator. The zoo staff set up the all of the reception decor and I could not believe how amazing it looked. So much better then I even imagined. The Malawi Event Center is amazing and the huge fish tank in the center makes for amazing backdrop for the head table and guest. I really can't thank all of the staff involved enough they were the best!
Reviewed on 31-10-2017
Patti Savage (wedding party) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 21-10-2018
This venue was amazing! We had great weather (70 and sunny) so appetizers and drinks on the outlook was just perfect. Our guests loved feeding the giraffes! Definitely a highlight and worth the extra charge. Would not reserve the merry go round again as our guests didn't know they could go on it. We had 375 people so we couldn't personally tell our guests and truly unless we had made a sign I don't know how our guests would know about it. We heard over and over how great the venue was for cocktail hour. The Malawi Center was great as well. Jenni is so easy to work with and the food was fabulous!We chose steak and crab cakes and we received rave reviews from our guests.So happy we chose this venue! Would use it again with no hesitation. Word of advice -reserve the golf carts for guests. This was an invaluable necessity especially for older guests or women in heels!
Reviewed on 27-10-2017
Wedding Date 21-10-2018
This venue was amazing! We had great weather (70 and sunny) so appetizers and drinks on the outlook was just perfect. Our guests loved feeding the giraffes! Definitely a highlight and worth the extra charge. Would not reserve the merry go round again as our guests didn't know they could go on it. We had 375 people so we couldn't personally tell our guests and truly unless we had made a sign I don't know how our guests would know about it. We heard over and over how great the venue was for cocktail hour. The Malawi Center was great as well. Jenni is so easy to work with and the food was fabulous!We chose steak and crab cakes and we received rave reviews from our guests.So happy we chose this venue! Would use it again with no hesitation. Word of advice -reserve the golf carts for guests. This was an invaluable necessity especially for older guests or women in heels!
Reviewed on 27-10-2017
Katherine Kneen (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 17-06-2017
I recently got married and had my reception at the Toledo Zoo, June 17th 2017. To say that I received the best service throughout the entire process is an understatement. I could have never imagined the day being more perfect and beautiful and well put together than it truly was. Everything went without any issues. The food was amazing, all my guests couldn't say enough about it. Everything was organized and well thought out and there were really no issues. The coordinators that I worked with throughout the process was truly amazing and if I lived in Toledo, I would honestly want to be friends and hang out with them all the time. They were WONDERFUL and made everything so easy! They took care of everything and when it came to clean up and packed up the decorations that I brought, they made sure to tell my mom, who tried to help, that it was not her job and to enjoy the rest of the night and they would take care of everything. The Zoo staff decorated the room perfectly and seriously, everything was exactly how I imagined it. The only problem the entire day, was there was an issue with the parking attendant at the Broadway lot. We had been told that a majority of our close family and friends that could park there because it was closer to the ceremony space and better for clean up later on that night. However, the parking attendant apparently didn't get the message and was rather rude to some of my family about parking and said some untrue things. I heard about this about 40 minutes before the ceremony and called my coordinator immediately and let them know of the issue, which they promptly took care of. I truly had the best day and night of my life and would plan to have any and all events at the Toledo Zoo, they were so wonderful to not just me and my husband, but my guests as well. From having my ceremony in the Formal Gardens, to cocktail hour in the Aquarium, and the reception in the Museum of Science, it was certainly the talk of all my family and friends who had the absolute best time. I want to thank Jenn and Lexie from the bottom of my heart, you are both truly amazing and wonderful people!
Reviewed on 10-08-2017
Wedding Date 17-06-2017
I recently got married and had my reception at the Toledo Zoo, June 17th 2017. To say that I received the best service throughout the entire process is an understatement. I could have never imagined the day being more perfect and beautiful and well put together than it truly was. Everything went without any issues. The food was amazing, all my guests couldn't say enough about it. Everything was organized and well thought out and there were really no issues. The coordinators that I worked with throughout the process was truly amazing and if I lived in Toledo, I would honestly want to be friends and hang out with them all the time. They were WONDERFUL and made everything so easy! They took care of everything and when it came to clean up and packed up the decorations that I brought, they made sure to tell my mom, who tried to help, that it was not her job and to enjoy the rest of the night and they would take care of everything. The Zoo staff decorated the room perfectly and seriously, everything was exactly how I imagined it. The only problem the entire day, was there was an issue with the parking attendant at the Broadway lot. We had been told that a majority of our close family and friends that could park there because it was closer to the ceremony space and better for clean up later on that night. However, the parking attendant apparently didn't get the message and was rather rude to some of my family about parking and said some untrue things. I heard about this about 40 minutes before the ceremony and called my coordinator immediately and let them know of the issue, which they promptly took care of. I truly had the best day and night of my life and would plan to have any and all events at the Toledo Zoo, they were so wonderful to not just me and my husband, but my guests as well. From having my ceremony in the Formal Gardens, to cocktail hour in the Aquarium, and the reception in the Museum of Science, it was certainly the talk of all my family and friends who had the absolute best time. I want to thank Jenn and Lexie from the bottom of my heart, you are both truly amazing and wonderful people!
Reviewed on 10-08-2017
Sharon Meinerding (wedding party) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 09-10-2018
My daughter was married in the aquarium in April. The reception was held in the Great Hall. The venue was wonderful, the food was very good (including the adorable zoo animal cookies!), and Jenn Maher Carson was incredibly helpful. My questions were always answered promptly, and Jenn was unfailingly calm and supportive. I would highly recommend this venue!
Reviewed on 09-08-2017
Wedding Date 09-10-2018
My daughter was married in the aquarium in April. The reception was held in the Great Hall. The venue was wonderful, the food was very good (including the adorable zoo animal cookies!), and Jenn Maher Carson was incredibly helpful. My questions were always answered promptly, and Jenn was unfailingly calm and supportive. I would highly recommend this venue!
Reviewed on 09-08-2017
Prentice Meinerding (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 29-04-2017
If I could get married over and over again (to the same person, of course), I would choose the Toledo Zoo every single time. The whole day of my wedding, from ceremony to reception, was absolute perfection.Leading up to the big day, working with Jen was a complete dream; She is detailed, on top of everything, warm, sincere, pretty close to perfect:)My husband and our families were blown away by our amazing experience and think that everyone getting married in the Toledo area should choose the Zoo.HUGE thanks to everyone who kicked off the \"rest of our lives together\" in such style. Xoxoxo!
Reviewed on 08-08-2017
Wedding Date 29-04-2017
If I could get married over and over again (to the same person, of course), I would choose the Toledo Zoo every single time. The whole day of my wedding, from ceremony to reception, was absolute perfection.Leading up to the big day, working with Jen was a complete dream; She is detailed, on top of everything, warm, sincere, pretty close to perfect:)My husband and our families were blown away by our amazing experience and think that everyone getting married in the Toledo area should choose the Zoo.HUGE thanks to everyone who kicked off the \"rest of our lives together\" in such style. Xoxoxo!
Reviewed on 08-08-2017
Morgan Corpe (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-07-2017
I cannot say enough great things about this venue. From start to finish the entire planning process was a breeze! The final walk through was great for tying up loose ends and putting us at ease! The zoo staff was great during the rehearsal in Friday night, making sure that everyone knew what to do and where to go! On the day of the event everything went flawlessly. The catering staff was excellent and made sure we had everything we needed! The event staff set up and tore down all of our decorations and everything was perfectly placed! Guests raved about the great service, food, and beautiful ceremony and reception spaces! The new Malawi event center is absolutely amazing! Staff at the cocktail hour in the African pavilion were so friendly and helpful and we got many comments on how all of the staff looked like they genuinely enjoyed their jobs and wanted to be there. If I had to do it again, I would not look at any other venues than the Toledo zoo!
Reviewed on 10-07-2017
Wedding Date 08-07-2017
I cannot say enough great things about this venue. From start to finish the entire planning process was a breeze! The final walk through was great for tying up loose ends and putting us at ease! The zoo staff was great during the rehearsal in Friday night, making sure that everyone knew what to do and where to go! On the day of the event everything went flawlessly. The catering staff was excellent and made sure we had everything we needed! The event staff set up and tore down all of our decorations and everything was perfectly placed! Guests raved about the great service, food, and beautiful ceremony and reception spaces! The new Malawi event center is absolutely amazing! Staff at the cocktail hour in the African pavilion were so friendly and helpful and we got many comments on how all of the staff looked like they genuinely enjoyed their jobs and wanted to be there. If I had to do it again, I would not look at any other venues than the Toledo zoo!
Reviewed on 10-07-2017
Brandy M (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 13-05-2017
I can not say how much I enjoyed my wedding at the zoo. It was everything I wanted for my wedding. I had my ceremony in the gardens with the simply package and everything was beautiful. Then had the reception in the aquarium. I used very little decoration. We had lights for the ceiling and flowers in mason jars on a wood slab with votive around them. The zoo also does the catering, which you will not be disappointed with the food. The food is amazing. Plus Jen is absolute fantastic to work with at the zoo. She will answer your questions even how many times you ask the same question. I would say getting married at the zoo was a dream come true.
Reviewed on 02-07-2017
Wedding Date 13-05-2017
I can not say how much I enjoyed my wedding at the zoo. It was everything I wanted for my wedding. I had my ceremony in the gardens with the simply package and everything was beautiful. Then had the reception in the aquarium. I used very little decoration. We had lights for the ceiling and flowers in mason jars on a wood slab with votive around them. The zoo also does the catering, which you will not be disappointed with the food. The food is amazing. Plus Jen is absolute fantastic to work with at the zoo. She will answer your questions even how many times you ask the same question. I would say getting married at the zoo was a dream come true.
Reviewed on 02-07-2017
Nicole Fernandez (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 29-04-2017
We did not book the Toledo Zoo as our venue, however we did book them for our cake, and they did an amazing job! I had no idea that the Toledo Zoo, would do cakes and deliver them to your venue, but they do! The flavor selection is a very wide range, and also allows you to pick out cake design. We ended up picking out a walking animal print around our cake, and all of our guest loved the cake and cupcakes! If you have your venue, but need a cake, check out the Toledo Zoo, you will not be disappointed!
Reviewed on 02-05-2017
Wedding Date 29-04-2017
We did not book the Toledo Zoo as our venue, however we did book them for our cake, and they did an amazing job! I had no idea that the Toledo Zoo, would do cakes and deliver them to your venue, but they do! The flavor selection is a very wide range, and also allows you to pick out cake design. We ended up picking out a walking animal print around our cake, and all of our guest loved the cake and cupcakes! If you have your venue, but need a cake, check out the Toledo Zoo, you will not be disappointed!
Reviewed on 02-05-2017
Kerry Juhasz (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 16-09-2016
We had our wedding reception in the African Lodge. Jen and her assistant Mic did such a nice job. The catering staff at the Zoo also were wonderful. We got so many positive reviews from our guests on how good the food was. Having our wedding at the zoo was worth every penny. We had a stress free day and it's all thanks to the staff at the zoo!
Reviewed on 07-10-2016
Wedding Date 16-09-2016
We had our wedding reception in the African Lodge. Jen and her assistant Mic did such a nice job. The catering staff at the Zoo also were wonderful. We got so many positive reviews from our guests on how good the food was. Having our wedding at the zoo was worth every penny. We had a stress free day and it's all thanks to the staff at the zoo!
Reviewed on 07-10-2016
Terri Scott (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 03-09-2016
There aren't enough stars for the Toledo Zoo. Jenni Maher and Lexi made me feel like a queen all day long. We booked this venue in May 2015 and our wedding was September 2016. Jenni answered all of my questions via email within hours. They set up all of our props for the reception, they helped with family members with special diets, they were at my side the entire day.
Reviewed on 06-09-2016
Wedding Date 03-09-2016
There aren't enough stars for the Toledo Zoo. Jenni Maher and Lexi made me feel like a queen all day long. We booked this venue in May 2015 and our wedding was September 2016. Jenni answered all of my questions via email within hours. They set up all of our props for the reception, they helped with family members with special diets, they were at my side the entire day.
Reviewed on 06-09-2016
Caitlin Rajski (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-05-2015
My husband and I were married there on 5/8/15, and everything was simply amazing. We were the first couple to do so in the newly renovated aquarium. The details were all taken care of marvelously by Bailey Streib. She was the best. From making sure everyone was where they needed to be on time, to catering, to making sure the fussy flower girls stayed happy and scream-free through the ceremony; she handled it all with ease. There is a sound system available in the aquarium, which helped our officiant out. We only had 100 guests, but the main area could have easily sat 50 more. The grounds were kept pristine and the staff was extremely accommodating. The transition from ceremony to cocktail hour to reception runs smoothly, and is expedited at an appropriate pace to make sure guests have enough time to mingle, but don't get bored. The reception, which was in the Great Hall inside the Museum of Science, was flawless. You bring your decorations for everything the day before at the rehearsal (included in the cost of the event), specify how everything is to be set up, and the staff takes care of everything for you. It was especially wonderful for me. I walked into the reception hall and was just as stunned at the beauty of it all. The food was delicious, and the chefs had no problem catering to the guests with very specific dietary restrictions, from allergies, vegetarians, to a family with lactose-gluten-egg intolerance. Bailey and her assistant were also there to ensure my husband and I were on time for the major events in the reception (cake cutting, first dance, bouquet toss, etc). The entire staff was extremely efficient at clearing tables of unwanted (and sometimes wanted) plates and glasses. The whole event was well worth all of the money. My only recommendation would be to extend the bar time & have specific glasses for the wedding party that won't be taken away whilst you're out dancing.
Reviewed on 07-07-2015
Wedding Date 08-05-2015
My husband and I were married there on 5/8/15, and everything was simply amazing. We were the first couple to do so in the newly renovated aquarium. The details were all taken care of marvelously by Bailey Streib. She was the best. From making sure everyone was where they needed to be on time, to catering, to making sure the fussy flower girls stayed happy and scream-free through the ceremony; she handled it all with ease. There is a sound system available in the aquarium, which helped our officiant out. We only had 100 guests, but the main area could have easily sat 50 more. The grounds were kept pristine and the staff was extremely accommodating. The transition from ceremony to cocktail hour to reception runs smoothly, and is expedited at an appropriate pace to make sure guests have enough time to mingle, but don't get bored. The reception, which was in the Great Hall inside the Museum of Science, was flawless. You bring your decorations for everything the day before at the rehearsal (included in the cost of the event), specify how everything is to be set up, and the staff takes care of everything for you. It was especially wonderful for me. I walked into the reception hall and was just as stunned at the beauty of it all. The food was delicious, and the chefs had no problem catering to the guests with very specific dietary restrictions, from allergies, vegetarians, to a family with lactose-gluten-egg intolerance. Bailey and her assistant were also there to ensure my husband and I were on time for the major events in the reception (cake cutting, first dance, bouquet toss, etc). The entire staff was extremely efficient at clearing tables of unwanted (and sometimes wanted) plates and glasses. The whole event was well worth all of the money. My only recommendation would be to extend the bar time & have specific glasses for the wedding party that won't be taken away whilst you're out dancing.
Reviewed on 07-07-2015
Anonymous (wedding party) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 10-08-2016
I’m the mother of the groom, and my husband and I hosted the wedding and reception for our son and wonderful, new daughter-in-law at The Toledo Zoo. The ceremony was held in the formal gardens and the reception was the first to be held in the newly-renovated aquarium. The gardens are gorgeous throughout the growing season and the aquarium…the new aquarium is so stunning and it was such a unique and spectacular backdrop for our event. \r\rI was involved with the bride in all of the planning, and the Zoo’s wedding consultant helped to make such a daunting task much, much easier. The Zoo has held wedding receptions and similar events for many, many years and that experience shows. They provided us a general template, which we were able to personalize to make the event our own. Plus, unlike other outdoor wedding venues that we looked at, the Zoo does offer a rain contingency plan…their indoor theater. While not as scenic as the gardens, it does have some nice architectural features, but fortunately for us, the weather was beautiful for our event. During all the planning, our consultant, Bailey, was available via email and phone for all of our questions. Also, as part of the process, the Zoo hosts tasting events for upcoming weddings, and it’s another well-orchestrated event in itself. The Zoo’s chef is outstanding and every dish we sampled was superb.\r\rDuring the event, Bailey and her assistant worked diligently, checking on a multitude of items throughout the afternoon and evening to ensure that all went well, and we cannot thank them enough. Indeed, all of the staff that evening were professional, and accommodating, and achieve a perfect blend of being unobtrusive yet available when needed. The tables were elegantly set, the presentation of the food was top notch and every bit of it was delicious. Many, many thanks to Bailey and the rest of the Zoo staff, we couldn’t be more pleased with both the ceremony and reception!!!
Reviewed on 10-06-2015
Wedding Date 10-08-2016
I’m the mother of the groom, and my husband and I hosted the wedding and reception for our son and wonderful, new daughter-in-law at The Toledo Zoo. The ceremony was held in the formal gardens and the reception was the first to be held in the newly-renovated aquarium. The gardens are gorgeous throughout the growing season and the aquarium…the new aquarium is so stunning and it was such a unique and spectacular backdrop for our event. \r\rI was involved with the bride in all of the planning, and the Zoo’s wedding consultant helped to make such a daunting task much, much easier. The Zoo has held wedding receptions and similar events for many, many years and that experience shows. They provided us a general template, which we were able to personalize to make the event our own. Plus, unlike other outdoor wedding venues that we looked at, the Zoo does offer a rain contingency plan…their indoor theater. While not as scenic as the gardens, it does have some nice architectural features, but fortunately for us, the weather was beautiful for our event. During all the planning, our consultant, Bailey, was available via email and phone for all of our questions. Also, as part of the process, the Zoo hosts tasting events for upcoming weddings, and it’s another well-orchestrated event in itself. The Zoo’s chef is outstanding and every dish we sampled was superb.\r\rDuring the event, Bailey and her assistant worked diligently, checking on a multitude of items throughout the afternoon and evening to ensure that all went well, and we cannot thank them enough. Indeed, all of the staff that evening were professional, and accommodating, and achieve a perfect blend of being unobtrusive yet available when needed. The tables were elegantly set, the presentation of the food was top notch and every bit of it was delicious. Many, many thanks to Bailey and the rest of the Zoo staff, we couldn’t be more pleased with both the ceremony and reception!!!
Reviewed on 10-06-2015
Tracy Radecki (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 06-09-2014
I have so may good things to say about the Toledo Zoo and our wedding experience! My brief overview is: great customer service, great organizational skills, amazing food, delicious cake and desserts, unique venue, great staff that go above and beyond to make sure that your day is special, everything located in one place makes it easy for you and your guests. \rWhen my husband proposed to me, it was quite a shock to be honest. I didn't really know where to start. We decided to get married relatively quickly (7 months between proposal and wedding) as the timing was just right. The only thing that I knew was that we would have a large wedding and outdoors would be ideal. I called one other outdoor venue first, but really wasn't that impressed. So, I decided to call the zoo. \rBailey was the person that I first spoke to in group sales. She is very good at what she does; she is able to direct couples well, but still gives you the freedom to make it your day and unique to what you want. After talking with her once and meeting with her, I knew that the Toledo Zoo was the perfect venue for us! \rWe chose to have our rehearsal dinner inside the Arctic Encounter building (where the Polar Bears and Seals are), we had our wedding ceremony at the zoo, and we had our reception there. \rThe Arctic Encounter is such a unique space to have any smaller event, such as a rehearsal dinner. Our wedding party had a great time and there are so many unique memories from being there that night. And it was nice to have a rehearsal dinner that was intimate with only the wedding party and other loved ones for the day before the wedding. \rWe had our wedding ceremony inside the Nairobi Pavilion; One section of the room was set up with chairs, an isle, and an arch at the front of the ceremony. The ceremony was absolutely perfect! \rWe then took golf carts over to the main side of the zoo and took wedding party photos while our guests enjoyed cocktails for an hour on the scenic overlook in the Africa area. Our guests were also able to ride the carousel and the train (the zoo is closed at this time so it is only your guests) while enjoying their cocktails and appetizers. I received SO many compliments about how fun this was and how unique an experience this was! The wedding party even was able to make it back in time to have a ride on the train before the reception began:)\rThe reception was beautiful! The food was amazing and we also received SO many compliments on how good the food was (as often wedding food is mediocre at best usually). The cake was beautiful and delicious and we also received many compliments on this. The staff was very attentive to my husband and I and always made sure that we were taken care of; They even went up to the buffet for me to get me. My family members and myself have a food allergy and they were sensitive and accommodating of this.\rI say this with all sincerity: Our wedding day was truly the best day of my life. Firstly because I was marrying the love of my life, but secondly because the Toledo Zoo staff made our day so very special and were so attentive to us and our needs. If we had to do it all over again, we wouldn't change a thing! We had the time of our lives! \rOther vendors used: Candlelight Occasions (recommend), The Flower Market (recommend), Nancy Sloan wedding officiant (recommend), DJ Orlando with Toledo DJs (recommend), Millenius Strings (recommend), and our amazing photographer John David Williamson (recommend).
Reviewed on 09-11-2014
Wedding Date 06-09-2014
I have so may good things to say about the Toledo Zoo and our wedding experience! My brief overview is: great customer service, great organizational skills, amazing food, delicious cake and desserts, unique venue, great staff that go above and beyond to make sure that your day is special, everything located in one place makes it easy for you and your guests. \rWhen my husband proposed to me, it was quite a shock to be honest. I didn't really know where to start. We decided to get married relatively quickly (7 months between proposal and wedding) as the timing was just right. The only thing that I knew was that we would have a large wedding and outdoors would be ideal. I called one other outdoor venue first, but really wasn't that impressed. So, I decided to call the zoo. \rBailey was the person that I first spoke to in group sales. She is very good at what she does; she is able to direct couples well, but still gives you the freedom to make it your day and unique to what you want. After talking with her once and meeting with her, I knew that the Toledo Zoo was the perfect venue for us! \rWe chose to have our rehearsal dinner inside the Arctic Encounter building (where the Polar Bears and Seals are), we had our wedding ceremony at the zoo, and we had our reception there. \rThe Arctic Encounter is such a unique space to have any smaller event, such as a rehearsal dinner. Our wedding party had a great time and there are so many unique memories from being there that night. And it was nice to have a rehearsal dinner that was intimate with only the wedding party and other loved ones for the day before the wedding. \rWe had our wedding ceremony inside the Nairobi Pavilion; One section of the room was set up with chairs, an isle, and an arch at the front of the ceremony. The ceremony was absolutely perfect! \rWe then took golf carts over to the main side of the zoo and took wedding party photos while our guests enjoyed cocktails for an hour on the scenic overlook in the Africa area. Our guests were also able to ride the carousel and the train (the zoo is closed at this time so it is only your guests) while enjoying their cocktails and appetizers. I received SO many compliments about how fun this was and how unique an experience this was! The wedding party even was able to make it back in time to have a ride on the train before the reception began:)\rThe reception was beautiful! The food was amazing and we also received SO many compliments on how good the food was (as often wedding food is mediocre at best usually). The cake was beautiful and delicious and we also received many compliments on this. The staff was very attentive to my husband and I and always made sure that we were taken care of; They even went up to the buffet for me to get me. My family members and myself have a food allergy and they were sensitive and accommodating of this.\rI say this with all sincerity: Our wedding day was truly the best day of my life. Firstly because I was marrying the love of my life, but secondly because the Toledo Zoo staff made our day so very special and were so attentive to us and our needs. If we had to do it all over again, we wouldn't change a thing! We had the time of our lives! \rOther vendors used: Candlelight Occasions (recommend), The Flower Market (recommend), Nancy Sloan wedding officiant (recommend), DJ Orlando with Toledo DJs (recommend), Millenius Strings (recommend), and our amazing photographer John David Williamson (recommend).
Reviewed on 09-11-2014
Alison C (bride) 4 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 04-10-2014
Bailey and Colleen were wonderful to work with throughout the whole process. I had my reception at the Nairobi Pavilion and despite the cold, it was beautiful and the guests loved the location. We rented the carousel and the guests had a blast!
Reviewed on 16-10-2014
Wedding Date 04-10-2014
Bailey and Colleen were wonderful to work with throughout the whole process. I had my reception at the Nairobi Pavilion and despite the cold, it was beautiful and the guests loved the location. We rented the carousel and the guests had a blast!
Reviewed on 16-10-2014
Sara (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 27-09-2014
We had our rehearsal in the Arctic Encounter at the Toledo Zoo. Everyone had a blast! The polar bears were out playing and the seals kept swimming past us! The food was amazing, and there was plenty of room for around 50 people. The staff was great and very accommodating.\r Bailey and Colleen were AMAZING, and made sure everything was perfect! I would definintely recommend the Toledo Zoo for a rehearsal dinner or wedding reception! You won't be disappointed!
Reviewed on 14-10-2014
Wedding Date 27-09-2014
We had our rehearsal in the Arctic Encounter at the Toledo Zoo. Everyone had a blast! The polar bears were out playing and the seals kept swimming past us! The food was amazing, and there was plenty of room for around 50 people. The staff was great and very accommodating.\r Bailey and Colleen were AMAZING, and made sure everything was perfect! I would definintely recommend the Toledo Zoo for a rehearsal dinner or wedding reception! You won't be disappointed!
Reviewed on 14-10-2014
Emily Olsen (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 27-09-2014
I am sooo happy with my decision to have my reception at the Toledo Zoo. The Lodge was the perfect size for ~100 guests, and cocktail hour in the Primate Forest was so fun! The zoo makes everything super easy - they provide all the food, drinks, tablecloths, chair sashes and napkins in your wedding colors, and they even did my cake (which was delicious!). One thing I really liked was they called all my outside vendors (DJ, florist, etc) the week before to confirm what time they could set up. Basically all I had to do was show up and enjoy myself, I didn't have to worry about anything else. Also, the wedding coordinator Bailey is awesome and made sure everything was running smoothly.Thanks Toledo Zoo!
Reviewed on 02-10-2014
Wedding Date 27-09-2014
I am sooo happy with my decision to have my reception at the Toledo Zoo. The Lodge was the perfect size for ~100 guests, and cocktail hour in the Primate Forest was so fun! The zoo makes everything super easy - they provide all the food, drinks, tablecloths, chair sashes and napkins in your wedding colors, and they even did my cake (which was delicious!). One thing I really liked was they called all my outside vendors (DJ, florist, etc) the week before to confirm what time they could set up. Basically all I had to do was show up and enjoy myself, I didn't have to worry about anything else. Also, the wedding coordinator Bailey is awesome and made sure everything was running smoothly.Thanks Toledo Zoo!
Reviewed on 02-10-2014
Anonymous (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 13-09-2014
I've been a huge fan and supporter of the Toledo Zoo my whole life and what better way to go even further than to get married there! I heard from word of mouth how wonderful the staff was and how the food was amazing. The only bad thing I had heard was getting married in July in the African Pavilion without air conditioning was not a good thing. We got married on Sept 13th 2014 and everything I heard was very true! We got married in the Gardens and the flowers were in full bloom still and were absolutely gorgeous! Luckily we had no problems with bees. It was magical because we saw hummingbirds,butterflies,and rabbits during the ceremony. The only downfall,and it wasn't the Zoo's fault, was that it had rained the previous two nights before the wedding,so the grass was still a little smushy which made it challenging to walk in the grass with high heels! I was at the front of the ceremony trying to not look like I was drunk with my heels sinking into the ground. It made me laugh,so it wasn't horrible. Our reception was at the Lodge and the staff there were beyond friendly and catered to our every need and questions. The food was to die for and the Chef was on hand to answer any questions and also to serve us at the carving station. The wedding coordinators were very friendly and was always on hand to answer any questions we had. We went through three coordinators because our first one had to go on maternity leave,the second one dealt mostly with questions and billing, and the third helped us out with the main day. Even though they were three different people they all had excellent communication with each other and with us. We also chose to have our cake done with the Zoo's bakery,which was not only convenient,but also delicious. I had many guests tell me how good the food and cake was and I even had my old boss tell me that my wedding was the best wedding he ever went to. I highly recommend the zoo because even though it seems expensive it's worth the cost. You not only get a stress free day, but you also get friendly service and everything is in one location.
Reviewed on 29-09-2014
Wedding Date 13-09-2014
I've been a huge fan and supporter of the Toledo Zoo my whole life and what better way to go even further than to get married there! I heard from word of mouth how wonderful the staff was and how the food was amazing. The only bad thing I had heard was getting married in July in the African Pavilion without air conditioning was not a good thing. We got married on Sept 13th 2014 and everything I heard was very true! We got married in the Gardens and the flowers were in full bloom still and were absolutely gorgeous! Luckily we had no problems with bees. It was magical because we saw hummingbirds,butterflies,and rabbits during the ceremony. The only downfall,and it wasn't the Zoo's fault, was that it had rained the previous two nights before the wedding,so the grass was still a little smushy which made it challenging to walk in the grass with high heels! I was at the front of the ceremony trying to not look like I was drunk with my heels sinking into the ground. It made me laugh,so it wasn't horrible. Our reception was at the Lodge and the staff there were beyond friendly and catered to our every need and questions. The food was to die for and the Chef was on hand to answer any questions and also to serve us at the carving station. The wedding coordinators were very friendly and was always on hand to answer any questions we had. We went through three coordinators because our first one had to go on maternity leave,the second one dealt mostly with questions and billing, and the third helped us out with the main day. Even though they were three different people they all had excellent communication with each other and with us. We also chose to have our cake done with the Zoo's bakery,which was not only convenient,but also delicious. I had many guests tell me how good the food and cake was and I even had my old boss tell me that my wedding was the best wedding he ever went to. I highly recommend the zoo because even though it seems expensive it's worth the cost. You not only get a stress free day, but you also get friendly service and everything is in one location.
Reviewed on 29-09-2014
Allison Bugaj (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-08-2014
I had my wedding at the Toledo Zoo in the gardens, reception in the Lodge, and it was absolutely perfect! They provided a staff of coordinators who went above and beyond. They coordinated with all of my other vendors to ensure everything went perfectly. Honestly, I did not worry about a thing the day of my wedding. The food was delicious and the venue was beautiful (I have wedding photos to prove it!) I had several guests tell me that my wedding was the best they've been to. If the Toledo Zoo is somewhere on your list of considerations, I urge you to move it to the top and do it! You will not regret it!
Reviewed on 24-09-2014
Wedding Date 08-08-2014
I had my wedding at the Toledo Zoo in the gardens, reception in the Lodge, and it was absolutely perfect! They provided a staff of coordinators who went above and beyond. They coordinated with all of my other vendors to ensure everything went perfectly. Honestly, I did not worry about a thing the day of my wedding. The food was delicious and the venue was beautiful (I have wedding photos to prove it!) I had several guests tell me that my wedding was the best they've been to. If the Toledo Zoo is somewhere on your list of considerations, I urge you to move it to the top and do it! You will not regret it!
Reviewed on 24-09-2014
Caitlyn Buzza (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 14-06-2014
I was recently married and used the Toledo Zoo as my venue for the the ceremony and the reception. The staff was extremely helpful and even helped me have my ceremony in front of the Elephant Exhibit. As an employee at the zoo I was very excited that this did come through. The wedding coordinators worked very hard to accomplish this dream for me. The wedding went on with out a hitch and couldn't have been better. I was so happy with the set up and how helpful staff were. Catering was amazing and the food excellent. The reception was also perfect. We had a few hiccups but it was nothing that the staff were no willing to work with us on. All in all I was very pleased with the staff and what we got for the price and would recommend the zoo to anyone who wants a beautiful out door wedding and an excellent staff this is the place!
Reviewed on 09-09-2014
Wedding Date 14-06-2014
I was recently married and used the Toledo Zoo as my venue for the the ceremony and the reception. The staff was extremely helpful and even helped me have my ceremony in front of the Elephant Exhibit. As an employee at the zoo I was very excited that this did come through. The wedding coordinators worked very hard to accomplish this dream for me. The wedding went on with out a hitch and couldn't have been better. I was so happy with the set up and how helpful staff were. Catering was amazing and the food excellent. The reception was also perfect. We had a few hiccups but it was nothing that the staff were no willing to work with us on. All in all I was very pleased with the staff and what we got for the price and would recommend the zoo to anyone who wants a beautiful out door wedding and an excellent staff this is the place!
Reviewed on 09-09-2014
Kerri Gramling (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 07-06-2014
When we first started researching wedding reception venues in the Toledo area, we immediately fell in love with the idea of having it at the Toledo Zoo. We have always loved going to zoos together, especially lights before Christmas. We made our way through the major zoos in Ohio and even one in Germany! Zoos were kind of our thing. But we didn't know what to expect as far as planning a wedding there.\r\rFrom the first contact with the wedding coordinators at the Toledo Zoo, we knew we made the right choice. They were so fun and easy to work with. They were passionate, experienced, and extremely helpful. We were living in Columbus at the time and they were very flexible with helping us with the planning process. We didn't get a chance to see our venue, the Nairobi Pavilion, decorated for a wedding before our big day, so we put a lot of trust in the pictures they provided and what we were told from other vendors who have worked closely with them. (All the vendors I worked with loved working with the Toledo Zoo which I think says a lot as well.) The zoo still proceeded to exceed all expectations. The atmosphere it provided was the perfect mix of fun and elegance. The food was delicious. The service was fantastic. There was a carousel and train running during the cocktail hour. The African Safari animals were out. The dance floor was perfect and the ceiling was decorated beautifully by Candlelight Occasions to give it a sophisticated and elegant feeling even though it was an open air pavilion at the zoo. The entire day and even the weeks leading up to the wedding could not have gone more smoothly. \r\rI still have wedding guests telling me it was the best reception they have been to. If you are looking for a fun and unique place to host a great party for your wedding reception that will have your guests talking for months, I cannot imagine a better place. Oh, and the price isn't bad either! Especially considering all that they provide and how much FUN this venue is!
Reviewed on 12-08-2014
Wedding Date 07-06-2014
When we first started researching wedding reception venues in the Toledo area, we immediately fell in love with the idea of having it at the Toledo Zoo. We have always loved going to zoos together, especially lights before Christmas. We made our way through the major zoos in Ohio and even one in Germany! Zoos were kind of our thing. But we didn't know what to expect as far as planning a wedding there.\r\rFrom the first contact with the wedding coordinators at the Toledo Zoo, we knew we made the right choice. They were so fun and easy to work with. They were passionate, experienced, and extremely helpful. We were living in Columbus at the time and they were very flexible with helping us with the planning process. We didn't get a chance to see our venue, the Nairobi Pavilion, decorated for a wedding before our big day, so we put a lot of trust in the pictures they provided and what we were told from other vendors who have worked closely with them. (All the vendors I worked with loved working with the Toledo Zoo which I think says a lot as well.) The zoo still proceeded to exceed all expectations. The atmosphere it provided was the perfect mix of fun and elegance. The food was delicious. The service was fantastic. There was a carousel and train running during the cocktail hour. The African Safari animals were out. The dance floor was perfect and the ceiling was decorated beautifully by Candlelight Occasions to give it a sophisticated and elegant feeling even though it was an open air pavilion at the zoo. The entire day and even the weeks leading up to the wedding could not have gone more smoothly. \r\rI still have wedding guests telling me it was the best reception they have been to. If you are looking for a fun and unique place to host a great party for your wedding reception that will have your guests talking for months, I cannot imagine a better place. Oh, and the price isn't bad either! Especially considering all that they provide and how much FUN this venue is!
Reviewed on 12-08-2014
Katie Feher (parent) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 21-06-2014
I'm the Mother of the Bride and pretty much did most of the planning. I'd like to commend Colleen, Bailey, Sidney, Nancy and all the Zoo's staff for all the hard work they do! First of all the weather was absolutely beautiful; 78, sunny and very low humidity. We had cocktails & hors d'oeuvres on The Overlook! Awesome! We paid the zoo to keep the animals out for an hour. Everyone loved it! Just so unique and fun! We then went in to the Nairobi Pavilion which I had Chris Magers decorate with mini white lites, organza and blue and lime green Chinese lanterns above the dance floor. Between the flowers, décor, linens, great ,music and not to forget awesome food which the zoo does all their own catering! The wedding cake and cupcakes were made by Timberline Bakery which is the zoo's bakery.....yum!!!!!!! The entire evening went off without anything going wrong. Everyone had a great time and we're still getting compliments on what a fun reception it was! I have always loved the zoo and just thought it would be a different venue to have Katie & Eric's reception at! They do a great job and highly recommend them for weddings, showers, rehearsal dinners, corporate meetings, etc.... Thank you for a wonderful evening! One that I will never forget! \r\rKathy Feher
Reviewed on 10-08-2014
Wedding Date 21-06-2014
I'm the Mother of the Bride and pretty much did most of the planning. I'd like to commend Colleen, Bailey, Sidney, Nancy and all the Zoo's staff for all the hard work they do! First of all the weather was absolutely beautiful; 78, sunny and very low humidity. We had cocktails & hors d'oeuvres on The Overlook! Awesome! We paid the zoo to keep the animals out for an hour. Everyone loved it! Just so unique and fun! We then went in to the Nairobi Pavilion which I had Chris Magers decorate with mini white lites, organza and blue and lime green Chinese lanterns above the dance floor. Between the flowers, décor, linens, great ,music and not to forget awesome food which the zoo does all their own catering! The wedding cake and cupcakes were made by Timberline Bakery which is the zoo's bakery.....yum!!!!!!! The entire evening went off without anything going wrong. Everyone had a great time and we're still getting compliments on what a fun reception it was! I have always loved the zoo and just thought it would be a different venue to have Katie & Eric's reception at! They do a great job and highly recommend them for weddings, showers, rehearsal dinners, corporate meetings, etc.... Thank you for a wonderful evening! One that I will never forget! \r\rKathy Feher
Reviewed on 10-08-2014
Rachel Hale (bride) 4 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 10-05-2014
The day of the wedding went very smoothly, Bailey was very helpful on getting us to where we need to be on time, and getting photos that we wanted done. The food was amazing and the staff was very professional. The rehearsal however was VERY unorganized no one knew, where to go, what to do, or what was going on. Sydney our assistant that was assigned to us for the rehearsal and the coordinator for the day of, didn't know what was going on, and was not flexible, thankfully Bailey was there to help as well.
Reviewed on 06-08-2014
Wedding Date 10-05-2014
The day of the wedding went very smoothly, Bailey was very helpful on getting us to where we need to be on time, and getting photos that we wanted done. The food was amazing and the staff was very professional. The rehearsal however was VERY unorganized no one knew, where to go, what to do, or what was going on. Sydney our assistant that was assigned to us for the rehearsal and the coordinator for the day of, didn't know what was going on, and was not flexible, thankfully Bailey was there to help as well.
Reviewed on 06-08-2014
Mandy Creps (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 11-05-2014
Everything was above and beyond what I expected. Staff friendly and helpful.
Reviewed on 28-05-2014
Wedding Date 11-05-2014
Everything was above and beyond what I expected. Staff friendly and helpful.
Reviewed on 28-05-2014
Kelsey Hills (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 14-09-2013
I got married in September 2013 at the Nairobi Pavilion at the Toledo Zoo. First and foremost, Colleen Tankoos is amazing to work with. She was incredibly responsive, yet always honest and up front. The zoo is lucky to have her as an employee. We had a lot of quirky things that we wanted to take place. For instance, I asked them to make my mom's margarita recipe. With every request, they went above and beyond to accommodate. I had several people say to me that it was the coolest venue they'd ever been to. I highly recommend the Toledo Zoo!
Reviewed on 03-10-2013
Wedding Date 14-09-2013
I got married in September 2013 at the Nairobi Pavilion at the Toledo Zoo. First and foremost, Colleen Tankoos is amazing to work with. She was incredibly responsive, yet always honest and up front. The zoo is lucky to have her as an employee. We had a lot of quirky things that we wanted to take place. For instance, I asked them to make my mom's margarita recipe. With every request, they went above and beyond to accommodate. I had several people say to me that it was the coolest venue they'd ever been to. I highly recommend the Toledo Zoo!
Reviewed on 03-10-2013
Victoria Csomos (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 21-09-2013
My experience with the zoo was fantastic. Colleen is great to work with, and our wedding coordinator Bailey made everything so easy for us! Everything went so smoothly! The food was delicious! Our guests complimented everything from the food, the friendly staff, the beautiful setting, etc. I definitely recommend the zoo for a ceremony or at least reception venue!
Reviewed on 23-09-2013
Wedding Date 21-09-2013
My experience with the zoo was fantastic. Colleen is great to work with, and our wedding coordinator Bailey made everything so easy for us! Everything went so smoothly! The food was delicious! Our guests complimented everything from the food, the friendly staff, the beautiful setting, etc. I definitely recommend the zoo for a ceremony or at least reception venue!
Reviewed on 23-09-2013
Kelsie Bernholtz (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 03-08-2013
The Zoo was gorgeous. The team of employees were great; especially the person who the bride/groom works most with, Colleen. She was helpful before and after the wedding. The food was phenomenal! My guests complimented the food multiple times. The Zoo was accommodating to my requests and I can honestly say I can my perfect wedding.
Reviewed on 21-08-2013
Wedding Date 03-08-2013
The Zoo was gorgeous. The team of employees were great; especially the person who the bride/groom works most with, Colleen. She was helpful before and after the wedding. The food was phenomenal! My guests complimented the food multiple times. The Zoo was accommodating to my requests and I can honestly say I can my perfect wedding.
Reviewed on 21-08-2013
Vanessa Gibson (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 06-07-2013
From the moment I contacted the Toledo Zoo about our wedding, I was so thrilled about the venue. The options they offered were amazing and totally fit into our budget! Colleen and Nancy made planning easy for me. They went step by step and covered everything that I could possible have questions about. They reassured me that no matter what happened or changed at the last minute, they would have a plan and it would all work that. That's exactly what ended up happening. The day of our wedding, after everything was set up for the beautiful garden, the sky opened up and it poured rain. I was very hopeful that it would stop, but it just rained harder as the night went on. Fourty five minutes before the wedding, the wedding coordinator came to me and ask me what I wanted to do. I opted to move the ceremony into Niarobi, where the reception was. I was nervous about this because I didn't want to get married in a room where people were sitting at their tables eating appetizers. I didn't even know what the room looked like. Our dressing room was in the museum and zoo staff used their own personal umbrellas and vehicles to drive us to the ceremony. They all kept us smiling and laughing, despite the dreary weather. Once in the paviliion, staff lined us up and made sure everything was set. The music started playing and they cued us down the isle. When I turned the corner I was amazed at what I saw. The chairs were all lined up down the isle, people on each side, and the room was decorated beautifully! The coordinators took our decorations and directions for set up and made it look so much more beautiful than we ever imagined. The setting was perfect, I can't even imagine it looking any better. It rained so hard that it was hard to hear the pastor at times, but other than that, it was amazing. After the ceremony, everyone took their chair from the isle and went to their table. Appetizers were served and the night went flawlessly. The food served was wonderful! All of my guests loved the food and the cake, that was baked at the Timberline Bakery of the Toledo Zoo. The entire day was perfect. The zoo staff all did a wonderful job and never once got pushy or demanding. They didn't rush us or make us feel uncomfortable in anyway. I only have good things to say about the Toledo Zoo as a venue. From the wedding coordinators right down to those who disassembled the reception, everyone was amazing, so genuine, and so accommodating. The wedding was perfect, I have nothing negative to say about the night, the staff...even the rain. Perfect, perfect wedding. If you like animals and love the exotic theme, I urge you to consider the Toledo Zoo as your venue. You will not regret it.
Reviewed on 09-08-2013
Wedding Date 06-07-2013
From the moment I contacted the Toledo Zoo about our wedding, I was so thrilled about the venue. The options they offered were amazing and totally fit into our budget! Colleen and Nancy made planning easy for me. They went step by step and covered everything that I could possible have questions about. They reassured me that no matter what happened or changed at the last minute, they would have a plan and it would all work that. That's exactly what ended up happening. The day of our wedding, after everything was set up for the beautiful garden, the sky opened up and it poured rain. I was very hopeful that it would stop, but it just rained harder as the night went on. Fourty five minutes before the wedding, the wedding coordinator came to me and ask me what I wanted to do. I opted to move the ceremony into Niarobi, where the reception was. I was nervous about this because I didn't want to get married in a room where people were sitting at their tables eating appetizers. I didn't even know what the room looked like. Our dressing room was in the museum and zoo staff used their own personal umbrellas and vehicles to drive us to the ceremony. They all kept us smiling and laughing, despite the dreary weather. Once in the paviliion, staff lined us up and made sure everything was set. The music started playing and they cued us down the isle. When I turned the corner I was amazed at what I saw. The chairs were all lined up down the isle, people on each side, and the room was decorated beautifully! The coordinators took our decorations and directions for set up and made it look so much more beautiful than we ever imagined. The setting was perfect, I can't even imagine it looking any better. It rained so hard that it was hard to hear the pastor at times, but other than that, it was amazing. After the ceremony, everyone took their chair from the isle and went to their table. Appetizers were served and the night went flawlessly. The food served was wonderful! All of my guests loved the food and the cake, that was baked at the Timberline Bakery of the Toledo Zoo. The entire day was perfect. The zoo staff all did a wonderful job and never once got pushy or demanding. They didn't rush us or make us feel uncomfortable in anyway. I only have good things to say about the Toledo Zoo as a venue. From the wedding coordinators right down to those who disassembled the reception, everyone was amazing, so genuine, and so accommodating. The wedding was perfect, I have nothing negative to say about the night, the staff...even the rain. Perfect, perfect wedding. If you like animals and love the exotic theme, I urge you to consider the Toledo Zoo as your venue. You will not regret it.
Reviewed on 09-08-2013
Jessica Ritchie (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 01-04-2013
We had a small wedding (20 people) at the toledo zoo. Was very happy with all the services and small touches. It was just what we needed to make this still feel like a grand wedding even with a small group. Pricing includes almost everything. Great food. Lots to choose from.
Reviewed on 29-07-2013
Wedding Date 01-04-2013
We had a small wedding (20 people) at the toledo zoo. Was very happy with all the services and small touches. It was just what we needed to make this still feel like a grand wedding even with a small group. Pricing includes almost everything. Great food. Lots to choose from.
Reviewed on 29-07-2013
Abby Gibson (parent) 5 out of 5 Rating
I cannot say enough about the staff at the Toledo Zoo. They are professional, caring, and made my daughter's wedding special. \rThey are easy to work with and took all the worries out of everything. We were able to enjoy the whole experience right down to the end of the night.\rWhen thunderstorms were on the radar, a garden wedding was out of the question. Kate made the back up plan happen with out a hitch.\rNancy had the Nairobi room looking fantastic. \rColleen answered all our questions leading up to the big day. \rBecause of the great people working at the Toledo Zoo, we had a very fun wedding night. Thank you!\r
Reviewed on 13-07-2013
I cannot say enough about the staff at the Toledo Zoo. They are professional, caring, and made my daughter's wedding special. \rThey are easy to work with and took all the worries out of everything. We were able to enjoy the whole experience right down to the end of the night.\rWhen thunderstorms were on the radar, a garden wedding was out of the question. Kate made the back up plan happen with out a hitch.\rNancy had the Nairobi room looking fantastic. \rColleen answered all our questions leading up to the big day. \rBecause of the great people working at the Toledo Zoo, we had a very fun wedding night. Thank you!\r
Reviewed on 13-07-2013
Nikki Moyers (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 04-07-2013
Thank you, thank you, thank you to the entire staff at the Toledo Zoo for our fabulous wedding!! We were married July 4th in the gardens and had our recpetion in the Arctic Encounter. The guest list was 50 people. From start to finish, everything was perfect. The planning was simple (luckily, since we did EVERYTHING in 3 months!), the excecutuon flawless, and the Zoo had all of our concerns and questions answered before we could even think to ask them.\r\rI HIGHLY reccommend the Toledo Zoo for weddings, and any other event. Ask for Colleen Tankoos - she's awesome!! Our day-of coordinator Katelyn Morschak was also wonderful . . . even our DJ raved about her and the ease of the evening! The entire staff, from servers to chef, and even our golf cart driver, Zowoi, were so gracious and hospitable. We have not a single complaint. Thanks again!!\r\r
Reviewed on 10-07-2013
Wedding Date 04-07-2013
Thank you, thank you, thank you to the entire staff at the Toledo Zoo for our fabulous wedding!! We were married July 4th in the gardens and had our recpetion in the Arctic Encounter. The guest list was 50 people. From start to finish, everything was perfect. The planning was simple (luckily, since we did EVERYTHING in 3 months!), the excecutuon flawless, and the Zoo had all of our concerns and questions answered before we could even think to ask them.\r\rI HIGHLY reccommend the Toledo Zoo for weddings, and any other event. Ask for Colleen Tankoos - she's awesome!! Our day-of coordinator Katelyn Morschak was also wonderful . . . even our DJ raved about her and the ease of the evening! The entire staff, from servers to chef, and even our golf cart driver, Zowoi, were so gracious and hospitable. We have not a single complaint. Thanks again!!\r\r
Reviewed on 10-07-2013
Carol Coe (parent) 5 out of 5 Rating
From the first phone call to start planning the wedding, to the end of reception, the Toledo Zoo personnel went above and beyond to make sure the wedding was a perfect occasion. They took care of every detail (large or small) to perfection! We had so many compliments on the venue, the food, and the staff. I would not hesitate to recommend or use them again for upcoming events. Thank you Toledo Zoo, Colleen, and your staff for a most perfect day!
Reviewed on 09-07-2013
From the first phone call to start planning the wedding, to the end of reception, the Toledo Zoo personnel went above and beyond to make sure the wedding was a perfect occasion. They took care of every detail (large or small) to perfection! We had so many compliments on the venue, the food, and the staff. I would not hesitate to recommend or use them again for upcoming events. Thank you Toledo Zoo, Colleen, and your staff for a most perfect day!
Reviewed on 09-07-2013
Jenn Musgrave (bride) 4 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-06-2013
The formal garden was gorgeous for our ceremony. The reception was in the great hall which was also very pretty. The staff was very helpful through out the whole process.
Reviewed on 07-07-2013
Wedding Date 08-06-2013
The formal garden was gorgeous for our ceremony. The reception was in the great hall which was also very pretty. The staff was very helpful through out the whole process.
Reviewed on 07-07-2013
Kristin Rakas (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 22-06-2013
When my fiance suggested getting married at the zoo, even he admitted that he was kidding. After doing some research, however, we realized that we were really on to something. They bent over backwards to make sure we had everything that we needed, and worked hard to fulfill every silly little request. Any time I had a question, I got an answer within the next 24 hours. They were also very good about accommodating our guests with very serious dietary restrictions. It may have been my wedding, but I can honestly say that it was the most beautiful wedding I have ever been to, and it is all thanks to the hard work of Colleen and her team. The food was amazing, the cake was superb, and the decorations were breathtaking. My guests really appreciated being in one place for the ceremony and the reception, rather than having to travel between locations, and they had wheelchairs on site for guests with mobility problems.\r\rI guess this is one thing that happened that really sums up how wonderful *everyone* was to us at the wedding. At one point during the reception I was really overheating, and wanted to find one of our programs to use as a fan. They had already been packed up by the staff, so some of the girls in the kitchen found a paper fry basket, broke it down, and gave it to me to use. It was such a kind gesture from someone who really could have just stayed in the background, and it really touched me. (And really helped cool me down!) A few minutes later, one of the girls found the fans and left one on our table. If I hadn't been about a million degrees, I would have given her a big hug. \r\rIf you want an absolutely amazing wedding for a great price and low stress, get married at the Toledo Zoo.
Reviewed on 25-06-2013
Wedding Date 22-06-2013
When my fiance suggested getting married at the zoo, even he admitted that he was kidding. After doing some research, however, we realized that we were really on to something. They bent over backwards to make sure we had everything that we needed, and worked hard to fulfill every silly little request. Any time I had a question, I got an answer within the next 24 hours. They were also very good about accommodating our guests with very serious dietary restrictions. It may have been my wedding, but I can honestly say that it was the most beautiful wedding I have ever been to, and it is all thanks to the hard work of Colleen and her team. The food was amazing, the cake was superb, and the decorations were breathtaking. My guests really appreciated being in one place for the ceremony and the reception, rather than having to travel between locations, and they had wheelchairs on site for guests with mobility problems.\r\rI guess this is one thing that happened that really sums up how wonderful *everyone* was to us at the wedding. At one point during the reception I was really overheating, and wanted to find one of our programs to use as a fan. They had already been packed up by the staff, so some of the girls in the kitchen found a paper fry basket, broke it down, and gave it to me to use. It was such a kind gesture from someone who really could have just stayed in the background, and it really touched me. (And really helped cool me down!) A few minutes later, one of the girls found the fans and left one on our table. If I hadn't been about a million degrees, I would have given her a big hug. \r\rIf you want an absolutely amazing wedding for a great price and low stress, get married at the Toledo Zoo.
Reviewed on 25-06-2013
Katie Rogers (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 08-06-2013
Colleen our wedding.coordinator was just amazing in making sure everything was right in planning our wedding. Our day of coordinator Bailey was sweet and made sure we had nothing to worry about.
Reviewed on 25-06-2013
Wedding Date 08-06-2013
Colleen our wedding.coordinator was just amazing in making sure everything was right in planning our wedding. Our day of coordinator Bailey was sweet and made sure we had nothing to worry about.
Reviewed on 25-06-2013
Manda Eigensee (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 04-05-2013
Our wedding was just everything a girl dreams about! The Toledo Zoo is like a little hidden gem for weddings! Colleen Tankoos and her staff did EVERYTHING to put me at ease and make the day fabulous! I would highly recommend the zoo to anyone!! I didn't lift a finger... Every detail was perfectly executed and our guests are still raving about our wedding two months later! We have priceless memories and endless smiles to remember our perfect day!
Reviewed on 08-06-2013
Wedding Date 04-05-2013
Our wedding was just everything a girl dreams about! The Toledo Zoo is like a little hidden gem for weddings! Colleen Tankoos and her staff did EVERYTHING to put me at ease and make the day fabulous! I would highly recommend the zoo to anyone!! I didn't lift a finger... Every detail was perfectly executed and our guests are still raving about our wedding two months later! We have priceless memories and endless smiles to remember our perfect day!
Reviewed on 08-06-2013
britney peterson (wedding party) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 19-11-2012
The toledo zoo is a great place for a wedding. They are very helpful and everything will turn out great!
Reviewed on 02-02-2013
Wedding Date 19-11-2012
The toledo zoo is a great place for a wedding. They are very helpful and everything will turn out great!
Reviewed on 02-02-2013
Holly Carr (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 06-10-2012
We had our wedding reception at The Toledo Zoo during the first week of October and it was amazing! I worked with the coordinator at the zoo for over a year while planning my wedding and they were so accomodating and always available to answer any of my questions or concerns. The night of the reception, everything went so smoothly. They had everything set up for me, the food was delicious and the service was wonderful. All of the staff were friendly and helpful. I couldn't have asked for anything more.
Reviewed on 11-10-2012
Wedding Date 06-10-2012
We had our wedding reception at The Toledo Zoo during the first week of October and it was amazing! I worked with the coordinator at the zoo for over a year while planning my wedding and they were so accomodating and always available to answer any of my questions or concerns. The night of the reception, everything went so smoothly. They had everything set up for me, the food was delicious and the service was wonderful. All of the staff were friendly and helpful. I couldn't have asked for anything more.
Reviewed on 11-10-2012
Liz Swartz (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 02-06-2012
Colleen, Tiffany, and Michelle worked as a wonderful team to create my fairytale wedding. From the little extra touches during the ceremony, to the food, and linen everything was amazing! The formal gardens create a picture perfect backdrop to our garden wedding. The weather cooperated but if it hadn't there was always a rain space back up plan.\r\rThe food was delicious and the reception was fun! Having an appointed wedding planner made everything easier, Michelle really went above and beyond.
Reviewed on 29-06-2012
Wedding Date 02-06-2012
Colleen, Tiffany, and Michelle worked as a wonderful team to create my fairytale wedding. From the little extra touches during the ceremony, to the food, and linen everything was amazing! The formal gardens create a picture perfect backdrop to our garden wedding. The weather cooperated but if it hadn't there was always a rain space back up plan.\r\rThe food was delicious and the reception was fun! Having an appointed wedding planner made everything easier, Michelle really went above and beyond.
Reviewed on 29-06-2012
Elizabeth Tognetti (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 04-09-2011
I honestly don't even know where to begin. Chris and I knew we didn't want a \"traditional\" wedding venue, and once my mom suggested the Toledo Zoo and we researched it online, we knew it was exactly what we wanted. Once we met with Colleen and the staff, we were confident it was going to be the wedding of our dreams, and we were right! Colleen was so wonderful to work with and constantly kept us informed, on task, and answered numerous emails from me and my mom. We were supposed to get married in the gardens, but automatically had a \"rain\" venue reserved, so I was not at all stressed when it rained on our wedding day. Besides our wonderful floral arrangements, centerpieces, etc., we didn't really have to add any decorations, because the Nairobi Pavilion was already so unique and perfect for our reception! We and our guests got to enjoy rides on the carousel and a train ride on the Safari Railway to see the many African animals! It was so fun and unique! I cannot even being to describe how delicious the food was, and how kind the staff was with working to make sure the menu was exactly how we wanted it. We got married in September 2011, and people are still commenting to us how it was the best wedding they've ever been to! We've had numerous of our male friends and family say that they usually don't enjoy weddings, but that they had a blast at ours! I highly recommend trusting Colleen and the entire Toledo Zoo staff with your wedding. Not only will you NOT be at all disappointed, but it will surpass anything you could have imagined and turn out to truly be the wedding of your dreams!
Reviewed on 26-01-2012
Wedding Date 04-09-2011
I honestly don't even know where to begin. Chris and I knew we didn't want a \"traditional\" wedding venue, and once my mom suggested the Toledo Zoo and we researched it online, we knew it was exactly what we wanted. Once we met with Colleen and the staff, we were confident it was going to be the wedding of our dreams, and we were right! Colleen was so wonderful to work with and constantly kept us informed, on task, and answered numerous emails from me and my mom. We were supposed to get married in the gardens, but automatically had a \"rain\" venue reserved, so I was not at all stressed when it rained on our wedding day. Besides our wonderful floral arrangements, centerpieces, etc., we didn't really have to add any decorations, because the Nairobi Pavilion was already so unique and perfect for our reception! We and our guests got to enjoy rides on the carousel and a train ride on the Safari Railway to see the many African animals! It was so fun and unique! I cannot even being to describe how delicious the food was, and how kind the staff was with working to make sure the menu was exactly how we wanted it. We got married in September 2011, and people are still commenting to us how it was the best wedding they've ever been to! We've had numerous of our male friends and family say that they usually don't enjoy weddings, but that they had a blast at ours! I highly recommend trusting Colleen and the entire Toledo Zoo staff with your wedding. Not only will you NOT be at all disappointed, but it will surpass anything you could have imagined and turn out to truly be the wedding of your dreams!
Reviewed on 26-01-2012
Sara McGriff (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 23-04-2011
The moment we saw the Formal Gardens at the Toledo Zoo we knew we had found the perfect place for our wedding. We loved that we were able to have the wedding and reception all in one place. The venue was unique yet still beautiful. The Toledo Zoo was able to cater the wedding and the Timberline Bakery provided the cup cakes. The food was delicious and the service was incredible. Every step of the planning process was smooth and the staff at the Toledo Zoo was organized and energetic. They were helpful and kind. The staff went above and beyond in every aspect of our big day, including making sure my aunt had a special dinner plate delivered to her seat at the reception because she has severe food allergies. We researched several venues and we honestly believe we got the best experience and value for our money. Our wedding day was stress free and we enjoyed every minute!!
Reviewed on 15-01-2012
Wedding Date 23-04-2011
The moment we saw the Formal Gardens at the Toledo Zoo we knew we had found the perfect place for our wedding. We loved that we were able to have the wedding and reception all in one place. The venue was unique yet still beautiful. The Toledo Zoo was able to cater the wedding and the Timberline Bakery provided the cup cakes. The food was delicious and the service was incredible. Every step of the planning process was smooth and the staff at the Toledo Zoo was organized and energetic. They were helpful and kind. The staff went above and beyond in every aspect of our big day, including making sure my aunt had a special dinner plate delivered to her seat at the reception because she has severe food allergies. We researched several venues and we honestly believe we got the best experience and value for our money. Our wedding day was stress free and we enjoyed every minute!!
Reviewed on 15-01-2012
Ashley Prybelski (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 06-08-2011
I moved not to long after my engagement from Toledo, Ohio to Denver, Colorado. I had found all my vendors including the zoo before I left. I was worried I would have a problem...I worried for no reason. Collen at the Zoo was timely with her responses to my never ending questions and they were very accomadating to some of the requests I had to make for some possibly difficult guests. They had great opinions and organization to make planning from far away more pleasant. My family did my food tasting and said that it was enjoyable and when we got the food everyone was very happy unlike some of the other weddings I have been to where the food is terrible. I found the pricing on the bar and food to be a good deal for having a served meal. The bar staff was great and they were helpful with the teardown and set up. My set up went smoothly and they were very enthusiastic about our table arrangements ( peacock themed) which made me feel great ( important when you spend so much time planning). All of my other vendors loved working with the zoo. Pictures went realy well considering it had rained that day and they were very sympathtic to out group and the other wedding about how hot we all were! BEST THING EVER ! having an animal demo at the cocktail hour, my guest were so surprised to have something differnt and the handlers were very patient with all the guests. I ended up with amazing pictures of happy guests and wedding party at all different types of places. In the end I would say that I would do it over and over again the exact same way with the Zoo because I believe they made a special experience very memorable for the Bride and Groom and the guests and in the end thats what you have to ask for! Best thing about my wedding besides my new husband was how well the zoo brought everything together for me .
Reviewed on 13-01-2012
Wedding Date 06-08-2011
I moved not to long after my engagement from Toledo, Ohio to Denver, Colorado. I had found all my vendors including the zoo before I left. I was worried I would have a problem...I worried for no reason. Collen at the Zoo was timely with her responses to my never ending questions and they were very accomadating to some of the requests I had to make for some possibly difficult guests. They had great opinions and organization to make planning from far away more pleasant. My family did my food tasting and said that it was enjoyable and when we got the food everyone was very happy unlike some of the other weddings I have been to where the food is terrible. I found the pricing on the bar and food to be a good deal for having a served meal. The bar staff was great and they were helpful with the teardown and set up. My set up went smoothly and they were very enthusiastic about our table arrangements ( peacock themed) which made me feel great ( important when you spend so much time planning). All of my other vendors loved working with the zoo. Pictures went realy well considering it had rained that day and they were very sympathtic to out group and the other wedding about how hot we all were! BEST THING EVER ! having an animal demo at the cocktail hour, my guest were so surprised to have something differnt and the handlers were very patient with all the guests. I ended up with amazing pictures of happy guests and wedding party at all different types of places. In the end I would say that I would do it over and over again the exact same way with the Zoo because I believe they made a special experience very memorable for the Bride and Groom and the guests and in the end thats what you have to ask for! Best thing about my wedding besides my new husband was how well the zoo brought everything together for me .
Reviewed on 13-01-2012
M Tognetti (parent) 5 out of 5 Rating
The venue was perfect for my daughter and son-in-law - out of the norm, but picturesque, easy on our guests, great service and food. The wedding was to be in the gardens but due to inclement weather, moved into the theatre. In hind sight, although we missed the beautiful flowers, I think our guests felt more involved in the theatre setting. The decision was made at noon before a 4:30 p.m. wedding. The staff and our flower ladies were fast acting and flexible. The weather cleared so all were able to parade to the Nairobi Pavilion for cocktails, rides on the train and carousel and then a marvelous buffet dinner. Colleen was so patient with our endless emails and lists leading up to the event. They were responsive to our comments on the food choices and bent over backwards to please our palates. As a result I think we never experienced a glitch as Colleen held our hand through the entire day and evening. The package the zoo offers is one of the most reasonable I have ever encountered. I think one must keep that in mind when looking at extra fees. Our guests, six months later, are still raving about the event. Thank you, Toledo Zoo, for wonderful memories.
Reviewed on 12-01-2012
The venue was perfect for my daughter and son-in-law - out of the norm, but picturesque, easy on our guests, great service and food. The wedding was to be in the gardens but due to inclement weather, moved into the theatre. In hind sight, although we missed the beautiful flowers, I think our guests felt more involved in the theatre setting. The decision was made at noon before a 4:30 p.m. wedding. The staff and our flower ladies were fast acting and flexible. The weather cleared so all were able to parade to the Nairobi Pavilion for cocktails, rides on the train and carousel and then a marvelous buffet dinner. Colleen was so patient with our endless emails and lists leading up to the event. They were responsive to our comments on the food choices and bent over backwards to please our palates. As a result I think we never experienced a glitch as Colleen held our hand through the entire day and evening. The package the zoo offers is one of the most reasonable I have ever encountered. I think one must keep that in mind when looking at extra fees. Our guests, six months later, are still raving about the event. Thank you, Toledo Zoo, for wonderful memories.
Reviewed on 12-01-2012
Kali Kratzer (bride) 4 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 18-06-2011
Overall, the wedding was perfect. However, we had many complications leading up to the wedding. We were told one thing and then later told by the same person it wasn't possible. This happened multiple times. Also, there are charges for just about everything you can think of. The venue was beautiful though and I don't regret going through the hassle now that I look back on it.
Reviewed on 05-07-2011
Wedding Date 18-06-2011
Overall, the wedding was perfect. However, we had many complications leading up to the wedding. We were told one thing and then later told by the same person it wasn't possible. This happened multiple times. Also, there are charges for just about everything you can think of. The venue was beautiful though and I don't regret going through the hassle now that I look back on it.
Reviewed on 05-07-2011
Abigail Downing (bride) 5 out of 5 Rating
Wedding Date 21-08-2010
We had a few bumps in the planning stages with communication between what we wanted and what was available. However, on our wedding day, everything went perfect. We used the Nairobi Pavillion. The food was delish and everyone loved it and had a great time. We rented extra fans, and in August that was definately needed. The zoo worked with us on several custom things we wanted. \rIt did feel like many things were \"additional charge\" such as round tables instead of rectangles. We splurged on the extras such as the train and carosel running during appetizers, and that was well worth it. \rIn the end, they made sure everything was just the way we wanted it on our wedding day, and it was pretty much perfect minus some timing hiccups .
Reviewed on 28-08-2010
84 Reviews, with a Rating of 4.94 out of 5.0Wedding Date 21-08-2010
We had a few bumps in the planning stages with communication between what we wanted and what was available. However, on our wedding day, everything went perfect. We used the Nairobi Pavillion. The food was delish and everyone loved it and had a great time. We rented extra fans, and in August that was definately needed. The zoo worked with us on several custom things we wanted. \rIt did feel like many things were \"additional charge\" such as round tables instead of rectangles. We splurged on the extras such as the train and carosel running during appetizers, and that was well worth it. \rIn the end, they made sure everything was just the way we wanted it on our wedding day, and it was pretty much perfect minus some timing hiccups .
Reviewed on 28-08-2010
Contact Info for The Toledo Zoo
| Contact | Value |
|---|---|
| https://www.facebook.com/thetoledozoo/?fb_dtsg_ag=adwxpnvpc7g5f3wsopmzb1sosngztuuc3u_dbejxqdylqw%3aadwllxbv_monyq8ynnziw6_75jy3asxuqeypiigwps-kpq | |
| X (Twitter) | toledozoo |
| thetoledozoo | |
| thetoledozoo | |
| Website | www.toledozoo.org |
| Phone | (419) 385-5721 |
| Address | 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH, 43614-0130 |
| groupsales@toledozoo.org |
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