Planning an outdoor wedding takes thoughtful consideration to ensure your special day is beautiful and stress-free. From choosing the right venue to handling unpredictable weather, this guide covers everything you need to know to create your dream outdoor wedding.
Selecting the Venue
Choosing the perfect outdoor wedding venue is the first step. Consider these factors when venue shopping:
Space and Layout
Look for a venue with adequate space for your guest count, ceremony setup, reception seating, dancing, catering, and more. Consider the flow of the space and if sections can be tented in case of rain. An ideal outdoor venue has both open areas and sheltered spaces.
Scenery and Backdrops
Imagine how the surroundings will look in photos. Parks, gardens, vineyards, and beachfronts make beautiful backdrops. Look for spots with attractive landscaping, flowers, water features, or other natural elements you want captured.
Weather Conditions
Evaluate the average seasonal temperature, chances of rain or storms, and sun exposure at venues you’re considering. Check for shade and shelter so guests aren’t uncomfortably hot. Breezy spaces can help with heat but may interfere with decor.
Noise and Privacy
Outdoor venues often lack walls, so sound travels easily. Noise from nearby roads, parks, etc. should be minimal during your event. Opt for private, secluded venues when possible.
Accessibility
Consider parking availability and proximity to hotels and airports. Venues near public transit are also desirable for out-of-town guests. Ensure the grounds are navigable for elderly relatives or those with disabilities.
Venue Restrictions
Review venue policies on outside catering, alcohol, noise curfews, setup/takedown times, decor limitations, and rental fees for tables, chairs, linens, etc. Ensure their rules work with your vision.
Backup Space
Have a “Plan B” for moving ceremonies or receptions indoors if weather intervenes. Tented spaces are ideal for versatility.
Choosing a Date
When picking a date, evaluate weather patterns and sunlight timing.
Seasonal Weather
Spring and fall tend to have mild, comfortable weather perfect for outdoor weddings. Summer brings heat concerns, and winter has cold temperatures.
Rainy Seasons
Research monthly rainfall averages to avoid planning an outdoor wedding during heavy rainy periods or monsoon season for your location.
Sunset and Daylight
Factor in sunset times if you want a dusk ceremony or reception. Confirm there is adequate daylight at the start time you’re considering.
Day of the Week
Saturdays are popular, but Friday or Sunday weddings can save on venue rental costs. Avoid major holidays that compete with guest attendance.
Backup Dates
Have a contingency date for bad weather. If possible, book your venue for both your desired date and a backup option.
Creating a Rain Plan
Even with sunny forecasts, prepare backup rain plans for an outdoor wedding:
Tented Reception Space
Rent large event tents to keep food, seating, dance floors, and audio equipment dry if showers pop up.
Quick-Dry Aisle Runners
Use water-resistant canvas or plastic runners that won’t get ruined in rain.
Weather-Friendly Hairstyles and Makeup
Brides should opt for updos and waterproof makeup that withstand humidity and moisture.
Unplugged Ceremony
Ask guests to not use phones/cameras so professional photos aren’t disrupted if using rain covers.
Clear Umbrellas for Guests
Provide disposable or reusable transparent umbrellas if rain is light. Have them stored and ready to distribute.
Towel Station
Set up an area where guests can grab towels or try to dry off under a tent if caught in heavy rain.
Rain-Safe Transportation
Use buses, limos, or covered transport to move guests between venues if needed.
Designated Parking Areas
Cover parking spaces and walkways leading to event spaces to prevent muddy shoes and long walks through rain.
Professional Tenting Company
Hire an experienced tenting firm to install structures securely and take them down safely. Ensure generators are quiet and properly ventilated.
Choosing Your Style and Decor
Design an outdoor wedding that complements your venue’s natural elements.
Focal Points
Spotlight venue features like fountains, fields, trees, or waterfront views. Drape florals on focal points to enhance their beauty.
Minimalist Approach
sometimes less is more. Avoid decor that competes with the venue’s scenery. Let the space speak for itself.
Nature-Inspired Details
Use natural-looking flowers, wood elements, flowing fabrics, and earthy tones that harmonize with the outdoors.
Rustic Charm
Unfinished woods, mason jars, lace, and vintage elements bring rustic flair.
Luxe Style
Crystal, gold, chandeliers, and elegant furniture make a lavish statement outside.
Pops of Color
Bright reception tablecloths and flowers make vibrant accents against green backdrops. Uplighting also adds color.
Weatherproof Details
Select hardy materials like wood, metals, and silks that withstand heat, rain, and wind. Avoid paper or delicate pieces.
Lighting Effects
String lights, lanterns, and torches illuminate gardens for night ceremonies and receptions. Candles need protection from wind.
Managing Wind Problems
Breezy conditions can wreck havoc on wedding decor and details:
Secure Candle Votives
Anchor votives in low glass vases or tube covers to protect flames from wind. Use LED candles for breeze-prone spaces.
Weight Down Tablecloths
Set plates, glasses, vases, or stones on top of linens to prevent gusts from blowing them up. Rent weighted tablecloths designed for wind.
Tie Down Chair Covers
Use adjustable buckle, strap, or tie backs to keep fitted chair covers from flying up.
Provide Transportation Between Sites
If the ceremony and reception are apart, provide bus or limo transport so guests aren’t walking long distances in windy conditions.
Avoid Loose Decor
Skip loose flower petals, confetti, paper programs, and delicate aisle decor prone to blowing away.
Sturdy Ceremony Backdrops
Anchored altar backdrops covered in drapes or flowers are less likely to sway or topple.
Manage Guest Attire
Remind guests to avoid large-brimmed hats, short dresses, and bringing umbrellas which catch wind.
Have Hairspray and Fashion Tape On Hand
Keep hair products and double-sided fashion tape in the bridal suite to manage flyaway hair and slipping dresses.
Choosing the Menu
Catering requires special planning for outdoor dining:
Know Facility Resources
Confirm what kitchen equipment is provided onsite. Many outdoor venues have minimal cooking facilities.
Beverage Station Setup
Have staffed bars in event tents so guests aren’t walking long distances. Self-serve stations are prone to spills.
Appetizer Style Dishes
Passed finger foods and stationary displays are easier for mingling guests.
Manage Tableware
Avoid flimsy plastic that flies away. Use weighted glassware and anchor tablecloths with plates.
Comfort Foods
Warm foods like mashed potato bars, mac and cheese, soups, and chili comfort guests in cool temperatures.
Hydration
Provide warm beverages if it’s chilly and plenty of water if heat is a concern.
Light Meals
When hot, serve chilled plates, refreshing salads, and fruits to beat the heat.
Wind-Friendly Cakes
Opt for stack cake tiers rather than delicate frosted cakes vulnerable to wind. Have a backup sheet cake.
Protect Food from Bugs
Use screened tents or nets over buffet foods to guard against flying insects in rural settings.
Managing Potential Weather Issues
Be prepared for any weather with these tips:
Heat Waves
Provide water, fans, shade, sunscreen, and cooled towels for overheated guests.
Thunderstorms
Know evacuation plans and have staff ready to move guests indoors quickly.
Strong Winds
Take down lightweight structures, seating, and decor pieces that could blow away or cause injury.
Downpours
Have staff swiftly cover food, beverages, and electronics. Keep extra umbrellas on hand for bridal party photos.
Cold Fronts
Have wraps, hot drinks, and portable heaters so guests stay comfortable.
Dry Conditions
If outdoors in arid venues, remind guests to hydrate frequently.
Additional Outdoor Wedding Tips
These extra pointers ensure your outdoor event is a success:
Maintain Clear Pathways
Keep all walkways and exits unobstructed for emergency access.
Mind Noise Restrictions
Outdoor venues often have sound limits. Plan amplified music accordingly.
Prevent Sinking or Tripping
Lay boards, tiles, or grids over soft, muddy, or uneven ground.
Have Adequate Restrooms
Confirm bathroom counts meet occupancy codes and guest needs.
Install Durable Flooring
Portable flooring builds solid dance floors and aisles that hold up outdoors.
Provide Bus Transportation
Buses bring guests smoothly from hotels to the venue if parking is limited.
Include Bug Repellent
Place bug spray in baskets for guests bothered by outdoor insects.
Watch Bar Hours
If you serve alcohol, ensure your bartender follows laws for outdoor bar closure times.
Be Prepared to Get Dirty
Embrace that outdoor weddings mean embracing a bit of mud, dust, and grass stains!
Conclusion
The key to planning a successful outdoor wedding is scouting your location, preparing for any weather conditions, and embracing the beautiful unpredictability of Mother Nature! With a well-executed rain plan and contingency indoor option, you can keep your wedding day smooth sailing. Decorating thoughtfully to suit your venue, providing guest comforts, and working closely with experienced vendors takes your outdoor wedding from worrying to wonderful. Just focus on joyfully marrying your loved one surrounded by stunning scenery.