About Outdoor Weddings

So you're engaged. Now the stress and worrying begins. One of the first tasks in planning a wedding is choosing the perfect outdoor location. After a location is secured the other details will start to fall into place. However, planning an outdoor wedding requires research and thought. While Mother Nature is unpredictable there are certain factors to consider that ensure an outdoor wedding comes off without a hitch.

Time Frame

When planning an outdoor wedding consider the time of year you are getting married. What is the weather like during this time of the year? Are you planning for a summer wedding? The weather could be sunny, hot and humid. If this is the date for your wedding, think about providing your guests with bottled water, sunscreen or fans. If you're planning an outdoor winter wedding, consider offering your guest lap blankets or hand warmers. For both of these times of the year, it might be ideal to rent portable fans or heaters.

Another aspect to consider when planning an outdoor wedding is the time of day. Afternoons are the hottest time of the day and can be stifling for the bride and guests. Consider a sunset ceremony, positioning yourselves and the guests so the sun will be at your backs rather than in your eyes.

Geography

One of the first tasks every couple faces is choosing the right location for their outdoor wedding. Before visiting venues do some background work. Think about what type of wedding you want: formal or casual; destination or local. Think also about the interests of you and your significant other. Is there a place that captivates the two of you? Prepare a rough guest list to determine the size of your wedding. Are you planning a small event with close friends and family or a grand event with several hundred guests? Determining the size of your wedding plays an important part in choosing a location.

A few ideas for outdoor weddings include historic estates, parks, inns or cottages, the beach, backyards, country clubs, wineries, scenic landmarks and botanical gardens. Some considerations for outdoor weddings include bathrooms, lighting, microphone, electrical outlets, parking and service of alcohol.

Benefits

The major benefit for planning an outdoor wedding is the minimal decorations it requires. Outdoor weddings allow couples to enjoy the natural beauty of a location. This helps couples save on wedding expenses. Depending on the site, some grooming may be necessary a few days before the wedding. Make sure the grass is mowed, the grounds are raked and flowers blooming. Extra flowers or potted plants can be brought in the day of the ceremony and then used at the home. If the ceremony occurs at a public location, have someone check the wedding site the day of the wedding for any needed touch-ups. Simple decorations to consider include lights or lanterns in the trees, torches and an outlined aisle.

Potential

Outdoor weddings can be gorgeous, but planning can quickly go down the tubes with the threat of rain. Always have a backup plan. Choose an indoor location or rent a tent to set up at your outdoor location in case of bad weather. Another potential hazard for an outdoor wedding is wind. High winds force some weddings to be moved indoors. While Mother Nature is not 100 percent predictable, certain times of the year are more likely to see rain. Likewise certain locations are more likely to experience less-than-favorable weather at various times during the year.

Expert Insight

When planning an outdoor wedding it's easy to forget the technical aspects of the day. If brides choose a public or city location, they must contact the local government to inquire about permits needed for an outdoor wedding or event. Check into any regulations concerning food and beverages, candles or fire and trash removal. Knowing the city policies will prevent fines and headaches later.