Outdoor weddings can be incredible if the hosts know what they’re doing. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of things that can go wrong at an outdoor event. If you’re thinking of having your wedding outside, take a look at these five common outdoor wedding mistakes to avoid.
1. Not Having Bad Weather Backup
The weather doesn’t always play nice when you’re holding an outdoor event. No one will blame you if it rains on your wedding day—but they might blame you if you don’t have a backup plan. Our biggest piece of advice? Make sure you have some kind of covered space ready to go in case you have to move the ceremony. There are many benefits to using an event dome for your wedding, so consider renting one of those.
2. Not Considering Your Guests
Sure, your wedding photos will look stunning with the sun directly behind you as you say your vows. However, your guests will be stuck staring right into the sun for the duration of the ceremony, and they won’t be happy about it. Do your guests a favor and make sure they’re comfortable on your big day. Either adjust the time of the ceremony to account for the angle of the sun, or provide your guests with sunglasses or a canopy over the seating area.
3. Forgetting the Sound System
Anyone who’s ever experienced theater in the park knows that sound doesn’t travel very far outside without help. Having a sound system with microphones is an absolute must for any outdoor event. Otherwise, be prepared for blank stares from the back rows when you say “I do.”
4. Gilding the Lily
Most people who choose an outdoor wedding do so because they want to be surrounded by natural beauty. If that includes you, fight the temptation to decorate the entire venue. What’s the point of having beautiful natural surroundings if you’re just going to cover it up with your own displays? Instead, focus solely on decorating the area where the ceremony will take place.
5. Forgetting That the Food Will Be Outside Too
Unless you move to an indoor space for the reception, whatever food you serve your guests is going to be outside. How can you prepare for that? Make sure not to choose a cake that melts easily (sorry, buttercream lovers) and have covers and adequate methods for heating or cooling the food. An outdoor wedding is not the right time for a charcuterie display, unless you want to invite the local bug community.
We hope these five common outdoor wedding mistakes to avoid help you make the right decisions for your wedding. Take a deep breath and don’t stress. Your big day is sure to be amazing!