Six Considerations for Your Outdoor Wedding Planning

February 12, 2009 by

Outdoor weddings are very romantic and can provide the natural theme that cannot be duplicated indoors.

There are many different types of outdoor weddings. You can have your ceremony outdoors and your reception indoors or both the ceremony and reception can be outdoors on your own property or in a park.

The following are six areas of consideration when you start planning your outdoor wedding:

CALENDAR: Time of year is essential for the factors considering temperature and humidity.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: This will determine everything from parking, restroom requirements, changing area, catering requirements, electrical needs, and general logistics.
EXPENSES: Generally, outdoor wedding receptions are more costly than using a banquet facility which includes amenities that would not have a rental cost. A traditional church ceremony will generally range from $500 - $800. You should budget at least the same or more for an outdoor ceremony if you want amenities such as seating, decorations, aisle runner, sound system, etc.
HAVE A BACK UP PLAN: The possibility of bad weather always exists, you should have a contingency plan. Whether that means a tent or indoor option such as your reception location, have your plan mapped out prior to your wedding day.
ACCESSIBILITY: Make sure the location has adequate parking. You may need to provide valet service, especially for senior citizens.

Have your ideas in mind when talking to your wedding vendors and reception venue. Ask a lot of questions and let the experienced professionals assist you in creating your dream outdoor wedding.