Camrose Hill is an extraordinarily beautiful site and the flowers are exceptional, without question. However, I have some caveats for people thinking of this outdoor venue.
Firs...t, this is a working flower farm for the florist on the premises. Grounds are well-kept but there are some important considerations.
1. Shoes. High heels would be very uncomfortable, as they would be in any location where the ground surface was natural grass, with heels sinking into the lawn that has a slightly uneven surface in some areas.
2. Parking is up a hill with the venue in a lower area below, accessed by a fairly steep gravel drive for part of the way. High heels (again) could be deadly. The gravel could be slippery if wet, which could be dangerous for older guests or people with mobility issues. There are no hand holds along the way.
3). Bathrooms. Restrooms are port-a-potties. Think airplane lavs (in size) although Camrose's potties are much more nicely appointed. They are part way up the gravel roadway, which can be difficult for older or mobility challenged guests. It's not a place to change clothes and the water is not potable. There is one real bathroom in the bridal party cottage, but it is small.
4). Insects. It's a flower farm in the country, after all. We saw many butterflies (enchanting) but there are bees. People allergic to bee stings should be sure to bring an epi-pen. Junior should be reminded not to try and catch one.
5. There is a list of vendors that serve the property. The only time that beverages are available is while the caterer/bartender vendors are serving. Bring your own water bottles and other necessities for times when they are not available, and be sure to clean up afterwards $100/hr clean up fee).
5. "No ___" signs everywhere. No parking here, no beverages there, no shoes in the bridal cottage, don't hang your gown there, and lots of do's and don'ts. It's a working flower farm, after all, and I understand the need for order to avoid impacting other operations and preventing damage on the property. But it felt like we had to be watchful not to make a mistake that could cause embarrassment or problems ($$) for the couple. For example, I was directed to move the car from the driveway when I was in the process of making a delivery, but there is no way that I would have carried the items down the steep gravel drive without risking a nasty fall.
6. It's outside. There is a barn (clean, but with rough lumber). I don't know if it is available without pre-arrangment or if the reception would have to stay in the tent if there was a storm. Don't forget to ask.
7. Staff of the venue do not hover around, so it can be difficult to get questions answered at the time (think of everything that may come up ahead of time). They came to monitor the closing and were very pleasant, but I was surprised that no one checked on us during the event. Maybe staff were there but kept out of our way because things were going smoothly.
If you and your guests can handle these rustic elements, Camrose Hill is a venue to provide beautiful memories for years to come. If any of these issues could be a problem for you or your guests, think carefully. Summary: beautiful location. Flowers are fresh and last for days. Not the Ritz. Don't wear heels or slippery shoes. Wear sunscreen and bug spray if needed. Have a good time!