Outdoor weddings are certainly beautiful and romantic. But in many cases, they aren’t always as easy to plan as they may appear. Outdoor weddings bring with them additional pitfalls and caveats, but if you follow our top tips, you’ll shine on your wedding day.
Think comfort.
Consider what the weather will be like at the time of your ceremony. If it’s going to be hot and sunny, don’t leave your guests sweating uncomfortably. Have your ushers provide guests with ice-cold bottles of water when they are seated.
Think about printing your wedding program on a fan so that guests can use them to cool themselves. For an extremely warm location, consider renting electric fans and/or a tent for shade.
If it’s predicted to be damp and cold, recommend that your guests wear extra layers. You may even want to have portable heaters or lap blankets available.
Develop a backup plan.
The perfect outdoor wedding location has an indoor location waiting just in case it’s needed. Many brides and grooms choose to have their ceremony outside and the reception inside.
If needed, the tables can be moved to the back of the room while the ceremony is taking place. A tent is another option, but this will only work for light-to-moderate rainfall. Heavier rain will soak the ground and leave guests with muddy and soggy footwear. Make sure if you rent a tent that it is has thick, weighted sides so it won’t flip over.
Be ready for the wind.
Avoid light fabrics like silks and chiffons for your dress and your bridesmaids’ dresses. Let your hairstylist know that your wedding will be held outdoors so she/he can plan accordingly.
Can you hear what I hear?
While you don’t need to worry about rushing wind or the roar of the waves at Geronimo Oaks, sound doesn’t always travel well outdoors. Consider a sound system with clip mikes for the bride, groom, and officiant so all your guests can hear.
Work with the local natural beauty.
One of the advantages of having a wedding outdoors is the natural beauty surrounding you, which lessens your need to decorate extensively. But you still need to do some planning. Take a look at your wedding site a week prior to your wedding to make sure that everything looks the way you want it to.
Prepare the feast.
Hopefully, your caterer has experience planning an outdoor wedding menu. Take a moment to ensure that they’re planning foods that will keep well outdoors in the heat and avoid things like dishes which must be served cold, such as mayonnaise-based foods.
Consider the drinks.
Because alcohol causes dehydration, consider serving a selection of teas, punches, and lemonades. Have plenty of ice and water on hand as well. If you want to serve a fancy cocktail, consider a classic mint julep or a mojito to cool and refresh your guests.
Shade the sun.
Consider scheduling your outdoor wedding at sunset surrounded by the warm glow of the sun. If you’re having an it during the daytime hours, position the ceremony so that the sun will be on the backs of your guests instead of in their eyes.
Ready to plan your outdoor wedding? We’ve got you covered! Contact us today to get started with one of our experts.