Outdoor Wedding Planning Checklist
There is a lot to like about the prospect of an outdoor wedding – when the weather is perfect, weddings that take place outdoors can be some of the most romantic, gorgeous and memorable that you will ever attend. Those who have planned and had outdoor weddings testify that while they are special and beautiful, much organising needs to occur behind the scenes and prior to the big day.
The great news is that it is possible to follow a checklist that will help to ensure that all areas – from party hire equipment and decorations to food and refreshment provisions – are covered. Here we take a look at some of the most important tips to ensure that your special day is an incredible success:
1: Ensure your guests are comfortable
Outdoor weddings leave you at the mercy of the weather and so it is very important to consider what the weather will be like at the time of day and time of year that your wedding occurs. Remember that marquee hire is a great idea and one of the most effective ways to ensure that your guests are comfortable, regardless of whether rain starts to fall or the sun beams its heat-filled rays.
The climate of your marquee can of course be controlled through the use of portable fans, air conditioners and heaters, also available for hire.
2: Be prepared to be flexible
A number of brides and grooms have their hearts set on a ceremony at a picturesque outdoor location, followed by a reception that takes place in a marquee or within some other structure. While you may have all the details of your dream wedding very clear in your mind, be prepared to be flexible if circumstances do not permit what you have envisaged. For example, many beautiful and meaningful ceremonies have occurred at a location removed from the elements (within a beautifully decorated marquee for example) with tables and other furniture pushed back to create a very romantic effect.
3: Dress for the occasion
Although you are bound to put a lot of thought, time and effort into planning what you will wear and how you will look on the big day, keep in mind that outdoor weddings can be quite windy. Ensure that you have a robust marquee that will withstand the conditions, but most importantly, make sure your dress, and those of your bridesmaids, are made from fabrics that are not too light (such as chiffon). It is also a good idea to ensure that your hair is styled so that it will stay in place and look attractive regardless of whether the wind is blowing strongly.
4: Turn up the volume
A vital consideration for an outdoor wedding is a great sound microphone system that makes it possible for everyone to hear your vows and other announcements at your outdoor wedding. Event hire companies can assist with the rental and set up of such equipment and will help you to feel assured that your guests will be able to hear what is happening rather than only hearing the sounds of waves crashing or animals screeching.
5: Focus on decorations
While the outdoor location you have chosen for your wedding may well provide a beautiful backdrop for your special occasion, some decorating work will still need to be done. It is a good idea to visit the site a week before the big day to ensure that grass will be mowed, leaves and other materials raked up and beautiful flowers and plants attended to. You may wish to supplement the space with additional flowers and plants or other decorations such as: archways, lights, lanterns or torches.
6: Delicious food
As we all know, food is one of the most important components of a successful wedding. Work with your caterer and ensure they have experience creating and delivering a menu to be served in an outdoor environment. It is important to ensure that they serve foods that keep well in warmer conditions and realise the need to avoid particular foods that need to be stored in very cold conditions.
7: Drinks are served
While you are likely to devote considerable attention to the selection of alcoholic beverages that you offer for your guests, it is particularly important that you provide a selection of drinks such as: soft drinks, teas and punches. Some people even choose to serve refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails (such as mojitos) in order to promote the comfort and enjoyment of their guests.
Ensuring the above points are considered will go a long way to creating the outdoor wedding of your dreams. Happy planning!
