With COVID-19 restrictions being lifted every passing week, it appears that wedding planning is back on the table. Couples are now looking to book their weddings for 2021 and there is an array of options available including the idea of an outdoor wedding.
The great thing about having an outdoor wedding is that with a civil celebrant they can take place anywhere, anytime. Since becoming a civil celebrant, I have conducted weddings in a whole range of locations over the years, from Royden Park to a couple’s lounge and even the banks of the River Dee.
However, planning an outdoor wedding may not be as simple as it seems.
Here are five things you need to consider:
Weather Conditions
Weather is the most important factor when it comes to organising your outdoor wedding. Just because you book your wedding in August, that doesn’t guarantee that the sun will be shining on your big day. Having a contingency plan will save you a lot of stress if the weather does take a turn.
Providing shelter for your guests should be at the very top of your to-do list no matter which season you have booked for. In summer months your guests may seek shade if the day is warm and bright, in winter months it’s wise to avoid the potential rain (or snow!) with a heated area that can shield your attendees from the worst type of weather.
Formality
The best part of hosting an outdoor wedding is that it gives you a chance to throw formality out of the window. Why not try a different approach to the seating plan and allocate guests to a table but let them choose their own seats? Forget a three-course meal, why not have a hog roast or an outdoor pizza oven instead?
Décor
Having an outdoor wedding can give your creativity a chance to shine! Draw inspiration from the world around you. Use elements of your outdoor venue to build on a theme and design something that is unique and personal to you as a couple. For example, if you are having a beach wedding, you can use shells as part of your table settings or even to create a stunning and distinctive boutique.
The only limit here is your imagination.
Practicality
When considering an outdoor venue, it is crucial that you are aware of what facilities are available for you to use. If you are getting married on a beach or in a woodland it is wise to consider hiring amenities like outdoor toilets to ensure that your wedding remains hygienic.
Seating is another detail to be aware of. If you are planning to use picnic blankets for people to sit on, it is vital to consider guests who may not be comfortable sitting on the ground due to health complaints.
If you are having a late afternoon or evening wedding, it is worth contemplating how you will maintain adequate lighting if it starts to get dark or if the sky turns overcast. In this circumstance a lot of couples turn to outdoor generators to provide additional lighting for the day’s festivities.
Guests
It is important to ensure your guests are aware that your wedding is to be held outdoors from the onset. This gives them time to prepare their attire, medication they may require (in cases of extreme hay fever) and to make you aware of any special circumstances you may need to accommodate. No one wants an accident to happen in the midst of your special day!
One of the best parts about using a civil celebrant is that we can conduct weddings anywhere and anytime so you aren’t bound by rules the way you would be with a registrar. You have the flexibility to make your wedding as unique and personal as you want.
I’m always happy to talk through any ideas or questions you and your partner might have. If you would like to learn more about Celebrant-led outdoor ceremonies please don’t hesitate to email me at info@jeanetterobertscivilcelebrant.co.uk or call me on: 0778 986 6589
