How to Plan the Perfect Outdoor Wedding

Katelyn James Photography

We love outdoor weddings. To be surrounded by your loved ones in a gorgeous scenic background, whether it be the relaxing ocean shore, the lush green valley, or your cozy backyard, outdoor weddings have skyrocketed in popularity and have become a lot of brides’ go to wedding location.

But like all weddings, executing an outdoor wedding takes a lot of planning to execute the big day as flawlessly as possible. But that is why you’re here, and that is why we are here! Here are some of our favorite tips on planning an outdoor wedding!

Missy Loves Jerry

1. Choosing your Venue

Having your wedding outdoors is undeniably going to beautiful by default. However, some questions to ask yourself before you commit to a wedding venue are:

• What season am I getting married in?
• What is the weather going to be like?
• How will it transition from ceremony to reception?
• Will there be a lot of background noise?

Of course, if there is a will, there is a way. But inviting Mother Nature as your main guest for the day can be unpredictable, so definitely plan ahead!

Tip: Do not forget about rules and permits! If you’re thinking of getting married at a park, make sure you read up on all of their rules and regulations!

EC Campbell Photography

2. Make the space your own

The vast outdoors is beautiful, but you still want to let your personality shine. Remember, you are the star and your venue is just the background to your big day. By decorating the venue with your favorite colors, or cute center pieces that are “totally you” creates an area that is unmistakingly yours.

Tip: Pitching a tent can create a designated place for your guests as well as cozying up the outdoors!

Aaron Watson Photography

3. Lighting

Wedding day is pretty much an entire day long photoshoot. You want to be able to provide your photographer with good lighting as well as your guests. Thinking about whether or not your location will have enough natural light during the day can really help cut costs on this aspect! Also keep in mind where the sun will be positioned during your big day so you can plan accordingly.

Tip: Make the night even more romantic with string lights, candles, or lanterns!

Missy Loves Jerry

4. Be Prepared

The theme of the day is “Be Prepared”. The outdoors is unpredictable, so if you think it’s going to rain have umbrellas on stand by for you and your guests. The last thing you want is for everyone to be soaking and finding a place to hide under.

Tip: Have a back-up plan! If it is predicted to rain, discuss with your venue to see if they have an indoors area that you can turn to.

Robyn Icks Photography

5. #OOTD

Ah, the “oo-tah-dah”. Outdoor weddings are beautiful and so are your bridesmaids! Make sure that their dresses and shoes are suitable for your big day. If you’re having a wedding at the beach, leave the heels at home and opt for some cute sandals! Stray away from heavy fabrics and opt for a flowy chiffon, or even a shorter dress! If you’re having a wedding at night, try a longer gown.

Tip: You don’t want your bridesmaids to blend in with the background, so if your venue is a lush forest with lots of green, try to find a complimentary color so your girls can stand out!