Many couples desire an outdoor ceremony with breathtaking scenery and the beauty of nature as their backdrop. Weddings outside can be beautiful, but they also come with risks that an indoor wedding won’t. An outdoor wedding necessitates careful planning, whether you choose a location in your own backyard, the mountains, a picturesque park, or even on a beach. Contact our Seattle wedding planner now if you need assistance with planning a wedding!
THE PROS AND CONS
There are many benefits to having an outdoor wedding besides the stunning natural backdrop it provides for your wedding photos. An outdoor location might be able to accommodate more guests than the typical indoor banquet hall. Additionally, since the setting’s natural beauty serves as its own décor, you can save money on decorations. Depending on the atmosphere you want to set for your wedding, the informality of an outdoor venue can be a benefit or a drawback.
There are other drawbacks to consider in addition to the unpredictable nature of the weather. Some outdoor locations, like public parks, may have rules about music or drinking. Renting tents, chairs, tables, and other equipment can cost as much or even more than having the wedding indoors. Also, consider the terrain and whether elderly or disabled visitors might be at ease there.
BE PREPARED BEFORE HAND FOR BAD WEATHER
Most couples start planning their weddings months in advance, so they only have a general idea of the weather conditions on their special day. You should never be without a backup plan when having an outdoor wedding. When booking the site, you might want to ask whether the venue has indoor and outdoor areas. You’ll need to make the change right before the storm if it’s terrible.
Most rental tents offer adequate protection from light rain and wind, especially if sidewalls are present. A portable propane heater can help with the cold, and fans can help with the heat. You could also provide your visitors with blankets or umbrellas.
NOTIFY GUESTS
Letting your guests know that the wedding will take place outside is crucial. An invitation enclosure card is a useful way to let guests know where the event will be held and what to expect. Since many outdoor weddings are less formal than indoor weddings, let guests know what to expect. They will be interested to know if there is an outdoor theme, such as a barbecue, beach, or picnic.
The wedding may be more formal, but attendees should still consider their attire. For instance, stilettos are ineffective on a grassy lawn. It’s acceptable to suggest clothing choices on the enclosure card.
SEATING
Seating is provided at many outdoor venues, but you might need to rent your own. In this situation, you can be imaginative. You might request that guests bring their own lawn chairs if you’re having a very relaxed backyard wedding. However, you’ll need to rent chairs and tables for most wedding ceremony types. Due to their durability and ability to be used on almost any surface, wooden chairs, sometimes in the form of folding chairs, are standard options.
You must set up wooden chairs under a tent for a wedding during the day. To avoid damage, wooden furniture should be kept out of the sun. Setting up chairs and tables under the stars for a nighttime wedding can be lovely and romantic.
OUTDOOR-FRIENDLY MENU
There are lots of inventive menu options for an outdoor wedding. A barbecue is always a favorite, where meats are grilled outside and served with a selection of salads and sides. Make sure to include vegan substitutes as well. Large iced coolers filled with bottled and canned beverages and beer and wine can be entertaining ways to keep beverages cold.
Keeping the wedding cake fresh in the summer heat can be challenging. Many brides and grooms prefer to have the cake displayed during the reception, but the icing may melt in hot weather. Inquire about icing substitutes or other cooling methods from your baker.