Many couples are drawn to the unique idea of an outdoor wedding. Such a setting can make for some great photo opportunities and could make it a memorable occasion for all your guests. Whether you decide to get married on a beach surrounded by lapping waves or in the opulent grounds of a historic mansion, it’s important that you prepare for some of the added risks and challenges that can accompany an outdoor wedding. Below are 10 examples of things to consider when hosting your special day outdoors.
Licensing
Laws surrounding outdoor weddings vary around the world. In some countries, a wedding can only be deemed legal if it is hosted at a licensed venue or if you get permission from the landowner. This is something to look into if you’re planning to get married somewhere fairly remote.
Footwear
Not all footwear will be appropriate for an outdoor venue. Grassy or sandy areas could be uneven and certain shoes may sink into them. If you decide to wear heels, you may want to consider platforms or wedges rather than stilettos. This Brides guide lists a few great outdoor shoes options for brides.
Ground conditions
On top of determining what footwear you should wear, the ground conditions may affect what equipment can be transported to your venue. Some sloped or muddy areas may not be suitable for marquees or stages or heavy lighting. Consider whether you need to lay out mats or walkways.
Lighting
If your wedding party is likely to go on long into the night, it could be essential to set up some lighting. Some outdoor venues will already have outdoor lighting set up, but if you’re getting married somewhere more remote, you may have to consider hiring out some lighting and possibly some generators to provide electricity. This could be anything from ambient string lights to intense flood lights.
Landscaping
You may need to make sure that some outdoor venues are tidied up in time for your wedding. Many outdoors venues will stay regularly on top of garden maintenance during summer, but may not be as on top of this in the winter. Make sure that the grass is mown and that plants are cut back. If you’re considering a wedding in your own garden, you may want to consider buying tools like this Worx hedge trimmer to cut back shrubs and possibly even hire a pressure washer to clean your patio or deck.
Hydration
If it's likely to be a hot day when you get married, you should consider supplying some drinks so that you and your guests can stay hydrated. Don’t just supply alcohol - make sure that you have some water to give to guests too.
Food preservation
Any food that is left or served outdoors will need to be protected to stop it from spoiling. This could be particularly important when it comes to the wedding cake. Being able to keep food inside a marquee could help to preserve it. You could also consider cloches to cover up food and stop bugs getting to them. This post offers more food preservation ideas for an outdoor wedding.
Shade
It could be important in some venues to provide some shelter from the sun. A marquee can provide a sheltered area for guests to congregate. You could also consider options like patio umbrellas or temporary gazebos for guests to sit or stand under. Other venues may have natural shade in the form of trees.
Restrooms
If you or guests need to use the toilet, where will they go? Hosting your wedding on the outdoor grounds of a building like a stately home or hotel could give you access to indoor restrooms. If you’re planning to get married somewhere a little more remote, you may have to hire out portable toilets. Try to choose high quality options and make sure you have enough toilets for your guests to use without excessive queues forming.
Backup plan
No matter where you get married in the world and what season it is, there is always a chance that it may rain or get too windy to get married outdoors. Consider organizing a backup wedding plan in case of bad weather. By choosing an indoor venue with outdoor grounds, you have the option of going indoors if the weather takes a turn. Alternatively, it may be worth erecting a marquee or some other structure that people can huddle beneath. This won’t provide as much protection from the elements, but is better than having no protection.