In spring and fall when the weather is just right, an outdoor wedding can seem more enticing than any other option. They can also offer plenty of unexpected considerations to ensure guests are happy and comfortable throughout the ceremony and the reception. Things like covered seating or a mobile restroom trailer are just a couple of items that might slip someone’s mind while planning their big day. That’s why it can be helpful to use a quick checklist to ensure everything is accounted for.
Consider Location
Places like a beach or a winery can sound like romantic venues, but they both come with their own pros and cons. The beach promises a constant breeze that could gust into an uncomfortable guest, ruffling dresses, blowing away table settings, or extinguishing candles. Wineries can also get particularly warm in the summer months, so drinks and shaded areas should be available to guests throughout the day to help keep them cool. Even if you choose the cost efficient backyard, you’ll need to make sure you can get everything you need delivered and set up in the space, such as tables, chairs, and a sound system.
Unexpected Costs
An outdoor wedding can also incur some costs not associated with traditional venues. For example, to get married in certain parks or gardens, there’s often a site fee in addition to the rest of the bill. You might also need to consider the price of generators for evening ceremonies to keep some lights on as the sun sets. There’s also occasionally added costs if companies have to deliver their products—like rented furniture or tents—to a remote location outside of their usual delivery area.
Having an outdoor wedding can create a beautiful, romantic environment for the big day, but there are also important considerations to be made to ensure the day is perfect.
