Summertime is primetime for weddings – particularly outdoor celebrations. But if you’re going to plan an outdoor event for your big day, it’s important that you work through some of the logistical details on the front end.
7 Tips to Keep in Mind
Outdoor weddings are beautiful, romantic, and memorable, but they can also be unpredictable. Between weather, bugs, and changing environments, there’s so much to think about. As you plan your outdoor wedding, you’ll want to think through all of the different circumstances and challenges that could come into play.
Here are some tips we’d recommend:
- Choose the Right Venue
The first step is to choose the right type of outdoor venue. Will you be using an event venue that’s dedicated to weddings? Do you want to use someone’s backyard? Do you need an indoor/outdoor venue that offers some flexibility? There are lots of different options and you should take the time to work through all of the possibilities to ensure you end up with a venue that’s right for your big day. “You want a venue that can accommodate everything you desire for your wedding as well as a lovely entrance as it is the first thing people will see”, said orlajames.com.
- Get the Right Permits
Depending on where your outdoor wedding is located, you may need certain permits and licenses to keep the event legal. If you’re hosting the celebration in someone’s backyard, an HOA may have restrictions related to noise, curfew, parking, etc. This is not a time where you push through and ask for forgiveness later. Figure out all of these details on the front end so there are no surprises come wedding day.
- Use Tents and Canopies
Weather is always a concern for outdoor events. Even if the forecast is calling for clear skies, it’s smart to be prepared for sudden changes. Summer can bring isolated thunderstorms with very little heads up. Having contingencies in place will allow you to roll with the punches.
According to eCanopy, you can use canopies and tents to protect things like buffet lines, DJ equipment, gift tables, and other important items. Even if it doesn’t rain, these canopies provide much needed shade on hot summer days.
- Account for Sound
Sound is one issue that couples frequently encounter with outdoor weddings – especially when it’s a beach wedding.
“When you picture your dream wedding at the beach, you’re probably not hearing the roaring of the waves, the rushing wind, or the local kids running and screaming around you,” wedding blogger Nina Callaway explains. “Look into renting a sound system with clip mikes for the bride, groom, and officiant. Your DJ or band may be able to easily arrange this for you.”
- Wind – and Humidity – Proof Your Hair
It’s important to speak with your hair stylist ahead of time about any weather-related concerns you may have. They should be able to provide you with some suggestions based on your hair type and the weather forecast.
“If your dream hairstyle won’t hold up well in certain weather, consider trying out a more weather-proof backup style just in case,” Alex Reardon writes for WeddingWire. “This may require a second trial, but it could be well worth it. This way, you can always make the call on the day of.”
- Wear a Reception Dress
The last thing you want is for your expensive dress to end up muddy, stained, and ripped after a full day of dancing and celebrating. It may be wise to purchase a reception dress that you can change into for the last couple of hours of the wedding. If nothing else, you’ll feel more comfortable.
- Have a Backup Plan
Any time you have an outdoor event, it’s wise to have a soft backup plan in place – just in case! While it’s highly unlikely that something will totally ruin your day and displace you, it’s certainly possible. Having some options at the ready will allow you to make a last-minute option, should it be necessary.
Relax and Enjoy Your Day
Planning a wedding can be stressful and depleting, but don’t let things get so out of hand that you spend your big day tied up with tension and nerves.
Assuming you’ve taken all of the necessary precautions and planned accordingly, you should be free to enjoy the moment and soak up everything it has to offer. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the one day where everything is all about you!
