Planning an outdoor wedding can have it’s bonuses but sometimes we need to take into consideration all the factors. Here’s a few things that come to mind when considering an outdoor wedding.
Outdoor Weather Conditions:
Rain – can you rent a tent as an alternative, or is there an inside backup location nearby?
Heat – will the ceremony be in full sunlight? If so, are there shade alternatives?
Number of guests – how many guests are you inviting, and will they fit the location?
Seating – will you have to provide seating?
Music – will your music require electricity? Acoustic guitars, violins, harps, and other instruments may not need electricity. Battery-powered docking stations for your iPod music are another choice.
Entrance fees – will your guests have to pay to get into the park?
Physical limitations – based on your location, is it barrier free for your guests?
Reserve – can you reserve the location? If you are in a public area, consider the effect of uninvited guests and gawkers at your ceremony.
Outdoor Weather Tips:
Water – If your wedding is held in the warm summer months, plan on enough cold beverages for your guests, and keep them available throughout the day. Chilled bottle water or pitchers of iced water is a simple but thoughtful drink. The wedding party will also appreciate a handy cold beverage if they are being photographed outside.
Umbrellas – Have a few umbrellas available. In the event of rain or hot sunshine, your older guests, babies, and those that sunburn easily will appreciate having one. This thoughtful touch will be remembered because guests will know you cared about their comfort.
Chairs – some people cannot stand for any length of time. Have a few chairs or benches available.
Shade – your musicians will need shade.
Shoes – what kind of shoes do you plan on wearing for your wedding? Flip flops, flat or low heels, wedge type, and ballerina slippers allow you to walk smoothly. Three-inch heels will have you tripping like a newborn foal.
Hair – hair spray and gel are your best friends. Fly away hair can ruin a great photo.
Rough terrain – if guests must travel over grass, gravel or sand, ask younger relatives to help older aunts and uncles walk to the ceremony area.
Bugs – Don’t forget the bug spray!
Sunblock – Lotion or spray, guests will appreciate having it available.
Maps – Include a map to the ceremony and reception locations in the wedding invitation.
Outdoor Wedding Locations:
- A park, either in town, in the country
- A pretty backyard garden
- A church with a courtyard, or gardens
- Mountain top and ski areas
- Botanical garden
- Sculpture park
- Hotel with outside landscaped areas
- Golf course
- A zoo
- Gazebo (private or community)
- Campground
- Ship
- Reception venue with outdoor gardens
- Waterfall
- Pond
- Boardwalk
I work at a photography and three weeks ago worked videotaping a wedding on Edisto Beach. In the middle of June, dressing in a suit felt like enlisting to be a suicide bomber. We sweated for hours photographing and videotaping the pre-wedding. Then we stepped onto the beach where the wind blew at about 30 miles per hour. Maybe the couple should have thought ahead, considering no one could hear the preacher speak.
So, yes, it’s good to plan for everything when you’re having an outside wedding.
Hah now that wasn’t very well thought through. See I’m planning my wedding for May and live in Alaska, Thus I know it wont be to hot out for sure… Now windy on the other hand it can vary at my location… But it will be small and quaint. I’m sorry for the Brides unthoughtful planning. ^_^