Wedding Planning

An outdoor wedding can be one of the most beautiful places in the world to have a romantic wedding. However, if you do not plan correctly, have a second plan, and remember your guest comfort you could be sailing down the river in a downpour instead of having your first kiss as husband and wife.

Here are a few tips to ensure your outdoor wedding is a success.

1. Think about the weather. Are there chances of rain showers during the time you have chosen? Is the weather hot and dry during the season? Is it normally windy? All of these should be taken into consideration. You want to guests to enjoy your ceremony and their comfort should be at the top of the list. Items you may wish to include could be:
A tent large enough to accommodate all guests in case of a downpour, a place to get out of the direct sunlight or wind
Fans set around the tent to allow guests to cool off
Sunscreen
Water or beverage to keep them cool

2. If the weather might be damp or chilly during your ceremony, you should include in your invitation a note to bring extra layers of clothing. Some items you could provide include lap blankets and portable heaters.

3. Have a backup plan. If you plan to have your wedding and reception outdoors, you should have a plan just in case Mother Nature has other plans. You can have a tent ready or plan to move everything indoors in a moments notice. If it is only a light spring shower that is one thing, however, if it is downpour you had better be ready to move indoors or your guests are sure to have muddy feet in a few minutes.

4. Windy weather might be a complete catastrophe especially if you or bridal party are wearing light chiffons or china silk. In addition, hairstyles may not stay if the wind picks up. You should talk with your hairdresser and let them know your wedding is going to be outdoors and you want everyone’s hair to stay in place including the men. You may also desire a tent for the comfort of your guests.

5. Think about whether all the guests can hear the ceremony. If you have pounding waves, rustling wind, or children running around then you may need to rent a sound system.

6. Be sure to use decorations that can withstand the weather as well. If at all possible, check everything the morning prior to the wedding to ensure all the flowers, plants, etc… are in place and look perfect.

7. Receptions outdoors should have foods that can take the weather as well. Do not use items that have to be refrigerated such as Mayonnaise dishes or other foods that should be served cold.

8. Alcohol is not a wise choice for an outdoor wedding, since it dehydrates the body. Better choices would be punch, tea, or lemonade. Water is also a welcome drink during hot months.

9. Be prepared for unwanted guests such as ants, mosquitoes, and other bugs. A bug zapper can do wonders for keeping these guests away.

10. Try to keep the sun on the back of your guests while seated for the ceremony. No one wants to be squinting to watch your wedding.