The Outdoor Wedding 101

An outdoor wedding can be memorable and scenic if the couple remembers a few basics. A person’s marriage ceremony site should be chosen with care. This is the backdrop for the beginning of a brand new chapter in two individuals’ lives. All the photos will be taken in the locale and relatives will likely be flying in from far and near to witness the happy event. Tying the knot in the great outdoors can be romantic and wondrous. Here are some tips for covering the basics:

- Have a backup: Everyone knows that the weather can be unpredictable. Even the highly educated and well paid meteorologists on television don’t always get it right. Just in case, it’s wise to have a backup plan. Many parks or outdoor venues have a building or ramada on the premises that could work. Even a heavy tent will work in a pinch. Windy weather can also create unfortunate situations for chiffon gowns and elegant updos. The men in the wedding party might have to use a bit more styling gel for the occasion; the women might need to choose heavier fabrics and use bobby pins.

- Sound systems: It’s more difficult to hear what the minister or bride and groom are saying outdoors. It would be helpful to have an appropriate sound system to broadcast music and special words in the ceremony to the guests who have traveled from far and near to be able to hear just that.

- Bugs: Some guests may be uninvited such as flies, bees, mosquitoes and ants. Insect zappers or candles that ward off bugs may be a good investment for the occasion.

- Flowers and décor: Some weddings are held decoration-free if the locale is scenic enough. Holding a wedding in a flower garden may eliminate the need for potted plants. Having the ocean as a backdrop may be enough of a beauty statement behind the couple as they exchange their vows. This is personal preference and will depend on the setting. No matter how gorgeous the place is, though, it should be spic and span. Gorgeous natural parks may still have collected some trash or debris. Check a day or two ahead of time to make sure the place is in tiptop shape.

- Gowns and tuxes: Even though the ceremony and reception are being held outside, the attire can still be as formal as the bride and groom want it to be. A lacy wedding dress and a black and white tuxedo can still be a smashing choice on a mountain top. Just make sure footwear can handle the terrain. It’s hard to wear high heels on a sandy beach or rocky mountain path.

- Food and beverage choices: Make sure there’s plenty of water and non-alcoholic drinks to keep guests from getting dehydrated. Food should be stable enough to withstand outside temps. No one wants food poisoning to happen due to unrefrigerated mayo.
An outdoor wedding can be fantastic if the couple do a bit of planning. Covering all bases such as having a backup plan, adequate sound system, bug zappers, proper footwear and food that can handle the weather will ensure that a wonderful time will be had by all.