Outdoor weddings have become a very popular trend in the past few years. While outdoor spaces provide a natural backdrop that can make for an enchanting ceremony, they often require extra preparation due to the logistics of your chosen venue and the unpredictability of Mother Nature. To ensure your wedding is a success, here are some tips to consider when outdoor wedding planning.
OUTDOOR WEDDING PLANNING TIPS
In addition to considering the size and location of your venue, outdoor wedding planning must contend with several variables. Some factors you’ll want to keep in mind include:
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Time of Year
Seasons will be one of the biggest influencing factors in outdoor wedding planning. While a mountain backdrop or valley winery might seem like the perfect location to tie the knot, it’s important to keep your guests in mind as the costs of traveling can be a deterrent. Research the best time of year to perform an outside ceremony at your desired destination, so all your guests can celebrate comfortably.
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Weather
Everyone wants perfect weather for their wedding day — but, of course, that can’t always be the case. Make sure you plan for all types of weather, including heat, wind and rain. If outdoors, try to incorporate as much cover for your guests as possible, and keep them hydrated with water and beverage stations. Also, make sure your tables, place settings and decorations are sturdy, so they don’t blow away.
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Electricity
While outdoor weddings often give an unplugged feel, you’re still going to need access to power for your caterers and entertainment. If you’re hosting a late-afternoon or evening wedding, you’ll also need to accommodate for lighting. Make sure your venue provides access to electricity or can host a generator onsite.
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Accessibility
Outdoor venues create picture-perfect moments, but sometimes the view comes at a cost. Consider how far away parking will be from the venue and if you’ll need to provide shuttle transportation. Make sure to also look into portable restrooms if the venue is especially remote.
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Wildlife
Just because your outdoor wedding is off the grid doesn’t mean you won’t have unexpected guests. Be mindful of area wildlife, including insects. Keep any food covered until necessary, and have repellent ready for guests. Also remember to pack a first aid kit to deal with any bites or stings.
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Backup Plans
No matter how hard you plan, sometimes the unexpected will happen. If your outdoor wedding planning isn’t panning out, it’s critical to have a backup wedding venue so you don’t have to panic on your big day. After all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Atop High Point, North Carolina’s historic Congdon Yards campus, The Loft offers inviting, lavish and spacious rooms with a view to host a memorable wedding both you and your guests will never forget.
HOST YOUR WEDDING AT CONGDON YARDS
Located on the third floor of Congdon Yards, The Loft is a gorgeous indoor venue with several distinct spaces and two private suites that can accommodate events of all sizes and styles. Our luxurious rooms provide scenic views of all downtown High Point has to offer, and we even offer scenic locales on our historic campus to capture breathtaking outdoor wedding photos of happy couples and their wedding parties. To schedule a consultation or book your tour, contact us today.