The Most Practical Guide to Outdoor Weddings
The Most Practical Guide to Outdoor Weddings
Outdoor weddings are understandably popular, and for good reason. With the organic elegance of natural scenery, vows by sunset and starry sky receptions, outdoor venues offer the most gorgeous ceremonial experiences. These weddings also offer more space for guests, a peaceful atmosphere and more room for creativity when it comes to themes, decor and seating arrangements.
These outdoor wedding tips and ideas will help you plan a memorable ceremony for your special day.
Best Seasons for an Outdoor Wedding
Timing is crucial when planning an outdoor wedding. Because you and your guests will be exposed to the elements, it's important to check the weather in advance and make accommodations for the possibility of sudden changes.
If you plan your wedding in summer, you run the risk of your special day getting drenched in the rain. Snow and extreme cold are a concern for winter outdoor weddings. The ideal seasons for an outdoor wedding reception are typically spring and fall when temperatures are moderate and there's less chance of storms or snow. Even so, monitoring the weather in the days leading up to your wedding is essential.
Consider investing in an outdoor tent or other forms of overhead covering. Even when the weather is pleasant, your guests will still need protection from the sun and potential light rains. Some outdoor tents have temperature control features like heaters, ceiling fans and air conditioners. Otherwise, confirm that your choice of venue has covered space available.
Casual Outdoor Wedding Ideas
The sky's the limit when it comes to outdoor wedding themes. But some themes are more popular casual wedding ideas for outdoor settings:
Classy desert: Desert wedding themes can be incredibly magical. With a natural, untouched, earthy backdrop and a color palette that incorporates taupe, sage green, terracotta, burgundy and yellow, the blend of wild and barren nature, desert wedding themes are notably unique and undeniably classy.
Classic and chic: If you dream of tying the knot in a formal setting, the right outdoor venue can support a classic, chic theme. Choosing a venue with a courtyard or extravagant amenities is key. The best color palette for a classic wedding theme is primarily white and a secondary color in a couple of varying shades or tones. Decor should be lavish but minimalistic to avoid overpowering the natural beauty outdoor venues have to offer.
Tropical bliss: Vibrant colors and nautical decor make for a creative tropical wedding theme. This kind of wedding theme is especially best for outdoor venues, as most of your decor exists in a natural setting.
Rustic and boho: Rustic and bohemian-style weddings are one of the most popular options for outdoor ceremonies. These weddings showcase natural elements like wood, metals and cotton drapes.
Whimsical and wonderous: Whimsical and wonderous wedding themes are also perfect for outdoor venues and are a top choice for intimate backyard weddings. This wedding theme requires little decor. Wild flower arrangements and enchanting lighting designs are the primary elements to focus on.
When planning an outdoor wedding, the most notable advantage is that Mother Nature will handle most of your decor, especially if you choose a scenic venue. The natural surroundings will inspire your decor, while your choice of theme will lead the way.
How to Decorate an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony
Decorating an outdoor wedding ceremony is substantially different from tying together an indoor ceremony. More often than not, an outdoor wedding ceremony requires more lighting decor. While being surrounded by your loved ones under a starlit sky makes for an enchanting image, the soft glow of lantern lighting, votive candles, string lights or other outdoor lighting will amplify the enchantment.
But beyond choosing the right lighting that complements your theme and color palette, there are other ways to decorate your wedding for a magical aesthetic. Large flower arrangements, welcome signs, artificial vines and wreaths, wine barrels and wooden slabs are just some popular outdoor wedding decor options.
Choosing the right decor and flower arrangements can be tricky, so it's often best to work with a wedding planner to bring your decor goals to life. They can offer their expert opinion based on industry trends and your budget, and they can also help you bring everything together while alleviating some of your stress on the big day.
What Not to Forget at an Outdoor Wedding
Planning an outdoor wedding is as complex as planning an indoor wedding, but there are key differences that you will need to consider. Make sure your venue offers a sound system option with speakers so guests can hear the vows — otherwise, you'll need to source one yourself.
Incorporate enough shaded areas to keep your guests comfortable. Invest in outdoor wedding tents if your wedding venue does not offer shade.
You'll also want to make sure there is suitable accommodation nearby if you are planning your wedding in a different state or country. It's essential to plan accommodation for your guests instead of leaving it up to them to find a place to stay.
Bridal Gown Shopping Tips for a Backyard Wedding
It's no secret that finding the perfect wedding dress can take time, so it's important to start shopping at least six months before the big day. Ideally, it's best to start hunting for your dress a year in advance. It's also wise to choose lightweight materials for an outdoor wedding. Comfortable, natural fabrics are best because they are breathable and versatile. When it comes to choosing a wedding dress style, your primary considerations are your personal preferences, comfort and budget.
Outdoor Wedding Reception Ideas
Seating arrangements and entertainment are next on your outdoor wedding checklist. The most popular and practical seating solutions for outdoor weddings are bench rows, asymmetric rows, spiral, picnic-style, runway-style and full-circle seating, although there are other options worth considering as well. Row seating is a classic solution, while picnic and runway styles are a bit more creative.
If you aren't entirely sure which seating arrangement is best for your wedding, reach out to your wedding planner for advice and ideas.
Choose Baywood Weddings for a Memorable Outdoor Ceremony
Baywood Weddings offers stunning indoor and outdoor wedding venues in Southern Delaware. Our all-inclusive venues are just a few miles from Rehoboth and Lewes Beaches. Our in-house professional planning experts are ready to help bring your dream wedding to life.
Contact Baywood Weddings to browse package offerings and learn more about our awe-inspiring spaces.