How To Have An Outdoor Wedding

Oct 21, 2009

With careful planning and good planning, your dream of having an outdoor wedding can be a reality. Having one without the comforts of a controlled environment, however, takes some effort on your part to do a little bit of research first. As much as possible, make sure you are totally familiar with your outdoor spot so your event does not fall apart at the slightest hint of unpredictability.

One of the good things about having garden weddings is that you can actually reduce your decorating costs by a lot. Certain props will be unnecessary, such as wall décor and lights, especially if your wedding is in the day. Others are optional - side flower standees, ceiling decorations and aisle décor may seem too much by the time everything is in its place.

Other reasons why having an outdoor wedding is a good idea are that you may be able to cut down on the hassle of having to provide a map for your guests for two separate locations - one for your ceremony and the other for your reception.

Having an outdoor wedding also means you can afford to be more adventurous in your favour ideas. Gifts that are not commonly given out at ballroom weddings can be perfect as favors, especially if they are themed with the natural surroundings.

As much as possible, try to pick a location that can host both your ceremony and reception. This helps you avoid the possible problem of relocating your guests and maybe even losing them on the way.

Other outdoor wedding ideas you can incorporate into your outdoor wedding are ensuring that you use proper lanterns and lighting equipment for your candles. Remember that even the slightest breeze can put out candles so use hurricane lanterns or fishbowls to protect the flames from going out. Also remember that these same breezes may just blow any free flailing material into candle flames - wall coverings, curtains and tablecloth. Keep these tied up with a pretty colored ribbon and keep them away from any flame at all times. If they have to be flowing, then make sure any lighting around them are from covered bulbs and not candles.

Another suggestion for your outdoor wedding is that you keep your guests informed of the terrain or ground where it will be held so they can make the right wardrobe decisions. Long gowns and heeled shoes may be stained at the hems or soiled by mud on top of being uncomfortable so warn your guests beforehand so they will be prepared. To do this, a simple note on your invitation will suffice.

Other unique ideas for your wedding can be to have a single shot of each of your guests as they walk into your reception with an instant camera. This will help create a prom-like element which helps inject a little bit of spontaneous fun. You can always sign the pictures and give them to each person before they leave so they have a nice picture of themselves.

If you are having an intimate, cozy affair, instead of using a guest book, have your friends and family members sign an enlarged wedding photograph. If your wedding pictures are not ready, then use a picture of you and your spouse as a substitute. Your guests can then sign their names and message on the photo itself which will be a wonderful souvenir.