

"My design approach is to remain true to the space. One of the major reasons you're probably choosing to do an outdoor wedding ceremony or reception is because you're inspired by the natural elements of your venue, so don't take away from it. Colored linens, vibrant up-lighting and quirky knickknacks set a one-of-a-kind vibe.ħ. After all, the more you bring into your tent, the warmer and cozier it will feel. Drape fabric from the tent's ceiling to soften the space or to create sectioned-off "rooms." Hang pomanders from the frame's cross sections and add other details to welcome guests and enhance your wedding's unique design. If you don't have room to bring in couches and plush chairs, arrange your dining area with smaller four-person reception tables instead of larger eight or 10-person tables to create a more intimate look and feel.Īnd, of course, have fun with the decorating. But if you're already booked (and busy) and have chosen a rustic spot in the woods, a small backyard or a grand, grassy lawn for your outdoor venue, make it more inviting and comfortable with lounge furniture and lots of pillows. If you're unsure where to have your outside wedding, use The Knot Marketplace to help aid your search. Let them know what to expect when they arrive at the venue," Hoste says.Ĥ. Are they going to have to walk on gravel? Is it at the beach? Communicate those things on the website and what the guests can experience, in case they need to wear flats, for example. I think on the website, it's important to not only let them know things like temperature but also if the ceremony and dinner are on a grassy hill. "I always say, 'Communicate, communicate, communicate!' Whether that's on the website or by word of mouth. Inform your guests of your outdoor wedding on your invitations and wedding website so they can know what environment they will be in and what attire to wear. Tell your guests that you're having an outdoor wedding. (Find out if the venue offers a package deal or how much each additional hour will cost.) With tent and rental setup, not to mention flowers and décor, your team or pros will need extra time to set up-and tear down-the site. Make an organized plan with your wedding coordinator or honor attendant to decide who will be responsible for taking care of this-then be sure to work it into the wedding schedule.Īlso, reserve the site for your wedding day and the morning after. For example, companies sometimes require that votives and glassware be cleaned and boxed before being taken back––fines can are added if directions aren't followed. Remember to find out the return policy for each rental vendor you work with.
#Outdoor wedding planning checklist how to#
Decide what elements are most important to you, and then figure out how to fit the items at the top of your list and into your budget. You will need those rentals as well, depending on what amenities your venue offers. Curious about if you need a dance floor or aisle runner for an outdoor wedding? The answer is yes. Luckily, there are tons of rental design options available-textured curtains and tiebacks, funky chandeliers and colorful cushions.

Since tents are virtually a blank canvas, you'll likely need to bring in some extra touches to finish your outdoor wedding look. So if there is high humidity and temperatures, strong winds, freezing temperatures or more than one inch of snow, have your wedding indoors. But if you wondering how cold is too cold and how hot is too hot for an outdoor wedding, we suggest you don't have an outdoor affair if extreme weather usually occurs during that time of year. Our rule of thumb is if you would be uncomfortable in the elements then your guests will be too. The season your wedding is in is a big part of that decision. But you need to think realistically about whether an outdoor wedding is the best idea for you. Our study found that 25% of couples said holding some or all of the reception outdoors was the most important when deciding which venue to contact.

Having an outside wedding is a priority for many couples.
