How to Organise the Perfect Outdoor Wedding
Image by Cristina Rossi Photography via Bridal Musings
Outdoor weddings are wonderful affairs and absolutely lovely to attend. They are beautiful and romantic and who doesn't love being amongst nature. However, much planning has to be done to ensure that, regardless of weather or temperature, your special day will go off without a hitch.
Consider the Guest’s Comfort
When we visualise our wedding outside we tend to do so under ideal conditions; bright, warm sunshine and picturesque blue skies, but the reality is that this is not always the case.
Measures should be taken to ensure that your guests are comfortable whatever the weather. It is likely that your outdoor wedding will be in warmer seasons, so make provisions to keep everybody cool and comfortable. Considering offering ice-cold bottles of water (if it’s that hot), fans as keepsakes and other simple touches that will make the day more enjoyable. As well as a contingency plan for bad weather, proper shelter and seating should be made available for your wedding guests. Consider renting equipment like large tents and temporary structures from professional companies like Marquee Monkeys, who provide tents for all sorts of events. Contracting this task out is a wise decision because you can have the tents set up and taken down with no responsibility to you.
Image by Cedarwood Weddings
Never forget the citronella candles and bug zappers to keep insects from being bothersome during the ceremony. Also, you should make sure your wedding space is on even ground and is suitable for elderly and disabled wedding guests.
Theme and Decor
The chances are that you would choose an outdoor wedding simply because of the visual beauty it has to offer. However, don’t forget that when it comes to the time for decorations, try to avoid over the top themes and extensive decor. Most importantly though, the venue must be well maintained, with grass mowed and raked; flowers blooming and looking beautiful; and supplement potted plants if need be.
Image by L Hewitt Photography via Style Me Pretty
When choosing what decorations you will use, keep it simple and understated. Consider incorporating a trellis as an archway to add visual interest to where the bride and groom will be standing. Keep ornamental touches classic by using things like lanterns, natural fabrics, torches and strings of twinkling lights.
Consider the Logistics
In order for an outdoor wedding to be successful, it is imperative to have a properly planned and mapped out event. There are many factors that need to be considered, including power sources, food and drink distribution, music, and any AV concerns, such as microphones.
Image by Cristina Rossi Photography via Bridal Musings
Is a power supply close enough or will a generator be required? Don’t forget to address the bathroom situation! All of these things need to be thought of when planning so that you can always be prepared for the worst, and also plan how you will deal with challenges like wind and faulty equipment.
When choosing a caterer, be sure to select one that is experienced in outdoor dining and has the required equipment to execute the meal flawlessly. Take into consideration any water or power demands the caterer may have so that you can take measures to accommodate this. It is also a wise idea to have a detailed itinerary that spells out the how’s, why's and when’s of how the day should go, to avoid confusion. Also, make sure all necessary permits and licenses are in place.
Image by L Hewitt Photography via Style Me Pretty
Consult an Expert
If you find all of the extra preparations that accompany an outdoor wedding overwhelming perhaps you should consult an expert. By relying on either an experienced venue or an experienced wedding planner, you will receive the necessary guidance on all aspects of planning your wedding day, to make sure it is perfect. A professional will see to it every detail is covered, from sunscreen to umbrellas.
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- Written by Eada Hudes in association with Marquee Monkeys