Everything you need to know about planning an outdoor wedding
There are very few things that Covid-19 has brought us that we can be thankful for. On the whole, it’s been pretty dreadful. However, if you’re planning a wedding in 2022, or beyond, and would love to have an outdoor celebration, Covid-19 may have helped you.
During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, temporary measures were brought in to help couples tie the knot as safely as possible. And the headline within these measures was the ability to marry and celebrate outdoors. Now, due to the popularity of this temporary legislation, the government is considering a move to make it permanent. This would include religious ceremonies; however, no religious group would be obliged to provide outdoor ceremonies, and existing protections to safeguard religious freedoms would remain in place.
Prior to last summer’s temporary legislation, civil ceremonies at approved premises such as hotels needed to take place indoors, or within a permanent structure, such as a bandstand or gazebo. But if these proposed plans are passed, couples will be able to have the whole ceremony outside in the grounds of such a venue. Providing greater flexibility, especially during the pandemic when there are important public health considerations to consider.
In celebration of the proposed change to legislation, we thought we’d share an easy to follow How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding Guide. In the hope that we may inspire your plans for vows in the great outdoors.
How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding
Consider the weather conditions
Generally speaking, an outdoor wedding is not really an option during winter. Spring is possible, but while the day might be sunny and bright, the evening can be chilly, so you would need to think about that, the same applies in autumn.
Summer is the best season to plan an outdoor wedding for, but you’ll need to have a backup plan in case it rains – you can never totally rely on the English weather…! House of Wedding are event planners who specialise in outdoor weddings, and they have a range of amazing tents and tipis that will stylishly keep your guests dry.
Tell your guests you’re having an outdoor wedding
It’s likely that in the height of summer, an al fresco ceremony and reception will be most welcome, while also being a safer way to celebrate as we navigate our way out of the pandemic. However, it’s important your guests are aware of what’s in store for the day ahead.
Make sure your wedding invitation clearly states that some or all of your wedding will be held outside. This way they can plan their wedding guest outfits accordingly.
Forgo the traditional wedding breakfast and get creative with your outdoor wedding food
When you plan an outdoor wedding, you have the opportunity to ditch the formal three-course meal often served at weddings. If you’re holding the wedding ceremony in an open-sided barn or marquee, then a buffet-style set up can work really well. You may also want to consider something a little more quirky, like food trucks or wood-fired pizza.
This type of food setup could actually work out cheaper too, especially if you’re handling the catering yourself.
Embrace informality
When planning an outdoor wedding, you could have a table plan, or if you’re feeling really free-spirited, just let people sit where they like! Depending on numbers and how formal you want things to be. The great thing about planning an outdoor wedding is that your options with spacing and set up can be vast and fairly free. Why not simply direct guests to a particular table or area, and then just let them pick out their seat.
Toilets are a must at outdoor weddings
After all the outdoor socialising we did last summer, one thing we’re no longer taking for granted is access to a toilet after some outdoor eating and drinking. You may well need to hire some outdoor toilets if there isn’t safe and easy access units already in place. Ask your venue or your hire company about what’s on offer and if it is accessible for all of your wedding guests.
Lighting is your friend
As well as lighting for inside your marquee/tipi, you’ll need to light your guests’ way to the car park and toilets. Fairy lights look attractive strung through the trees and can be used to highlight paths and walkways.
You’ll also want to think about how the natural or night lighting will work with your wedding photos. Consider where the lighting is before deciding on where you and your partner should stand for the ceremony.