12 Tips for Outdoor Weddings

So you’re thinking of having an outdoor wedding? Outdoor weddings are often quite beautiful and even a backyard wedding can be nice and cozy. They do, however, have an entirely new set of challenges that can arise vs. an indoor setting. Here are some helpful tips to take into consideration when preparing for your ceremony in the great outdoors:

1-      Have a back-up plan just in case the weather takes an unexpected turn

2-      Consider the time of year and animals or insects that may be prevalent to the area (ie; backyards, canyons, deserts, fields, forests, islands, lakes/rivers, meadows and parks). Areas with water nearby may also have mosquitoes so consider using a bug repellent  

3-      If close to an area of traffic or other noise consider renting a microphone and speaker

4-      Ensure plenty of water is on hand for hot summer days & remember to stay hydrated

5-      The Bride may want to consider wearing flat shoes for grassy areas  or uneven ground

6-      Bees are drawn to flowers and perfumes; consider having an EPI-Pen on hand if you have a severe allergy to bee stings

7-      If taking place at night ensure there is plenty of lighting available for purposes of safety and so that your guests can clearly see you during the ceremony

8-      Ensure that any tents, trellises or archways are firmly secured to prevent tipping or flight if the wind should pick up

9-      If the ceremony is taking place near a body of water (ie; ponds in parks or rushing streams in canyons) consider a way to safeguard so that guests and any children attending do not fall in

10-   Ceremony additions are always beautiful, though some are not very practical in outdoor settings such as any ceremony involving candles or even sand if it is particularly windy

11-   Depending upon apparel and your sensitivity to the sun’s rays you may want to apply sunscreen

12-   Hay fever and allergy sufferers may want to have eye drops and/or allergy medications on hand (red, itchy, watery eyes and the sniffles rarely make for great photos)

All in all, with enough forethought, careful planning and consideration, outdoor weddings can still be beautiful, fun, elegant and exquisitely romantic. Enjoy the beauty of nature!

©2012 Rev. Christopher T. Scuderi