Thursday, January 17, 2013

Outdoor wedding tips

As I sit indoors in what is probably Sydney's hottest day at 44 degrees...I thought it would  be appropriate to start off  this blog with some ideas about outdoor weddings. Some of the most beautiful venues and views are outdoors , but there is a bit of a  risk if the weather isn't perfect!

Here are some things to consider when planning an outdoor wedding:

Spend some time researching what the weather will likely be at the time of day and month of the year of your outdoor wedding. If its a sunny and hot time of year... don't leave your guests uncomfortably melting – have cold bottles of water handy as guests are seated. Consider handing out fans so that guests may cool themselves a little ,  and also don't forget to have some spare sunscreen handy for the guests. If possible , try to hire a tent to shade the suns rays or a spot that has lots of shade provided by trees.

 If you're getting married in a colder time of year , make sure recommend to your guests that so they can wear extra layers.. You might want to have lap blankets on hand. Of course , also consider the rain , having some umbrellas handy even on a sunny day can be very useful  (and I've seen many creative wedding shots with umbrellas in them too!)


Do you have a backup plan What will you do if it rains? An ideal outdoor wedding location has an indoor location nearby that can be booked and used just in case. Many brides and grooms opt to have their ceremony outside and reception inside at particular venues , so you may consider a venue that can do this in case of bad weather. Some people opt to set up a tent , but keep in mind that  while this may withstand some light rain ,  heavy rain will soak the ground underneath, leaving guests with soggy and muddy shoes. Make sure any tent you rent is sturdy so it won't flip over, and that it has thick and weighted sides. (I've performed under a tent that literally came loose from it's bolts and collapsed due to strong wind!

On the note of wind (especially when considering seaside weddings) ,  avoid light fabrics like chiffons and silks in your dress and the bridesmaid dresses and do tell your hairstylist that you'll be having an outdoor wedding so she/he can plan a style that won't be flying around and in your face all day long!

If you're considering catering in the outdoors , find a caterer with plenty of outdoor experience. In hot weather , they should be able to provide options that keep well in the heat (dishes that should be serves ice cold can be a problem in the heat). 

If using musicians , check with them about their policies on outdoor weddings. Most string players (myself included) won't expose their instruments in direct sunlight or rain (no matter how light!) , as it can ruin the varnish of their instruments which are very expensive and valuable.  If you aim to have musicians in shade and cover in any case, this will ensure that you wont have musicians walk out mid ceremony in order to protect their instruments. Also consider if amplification is needed and therefore if power is nearby. In most cases , professional musicians should be able to answer any questions you have about an outdoor setting.

Lastly , Don't forget to contact your city parks department or other local government to get a permit for an outdoor wedding , Permission to photograph on site , parking spots and any other rules that may be associated with the area!


Need musicians for your outdoor wedding? contact www.victoriaviolin.com.au  for more information!



Have you got any other suggestions?

4 comments:

  1. Could not be written any better. Reading this post reminds me of my old room mate! He always kept talking about this. I will forward this post to him. Pretty sure he will have a good read. Thanks for sharing!....
    San Antonio Outdoor Weddings

    ReplyDelete
  2. You can avoid of wearing silk and chiffons fabrics of your wedding dress. A best professional caterer which knows more about outdoor weddings can make your day inspire your gladness.
    wedding venue essex , essex wedding venue , essex wedding venues

    ReplyDelete
  3. I love outdoor weddings and that is why I also want to get married at some lavish wedding venue in Austin. Please suggest me some good Austin Venues for a perfect outdoor wedding.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Thanks for this tips. Hire wooden chair
    event chair
    wedding tree
    eames chair for Weddings, Corporate Events or Shows.


    ReplyDelete