Preparing for Outdoor Locations
Hope for the Best and Prepare for the Worst
Outdoor weddings are fabulous in so many ways: sunshine, nature, scenery, and fresh air are a few perks that come to mind. But outdoor wedding locations require some caution thanks to Mother Nature's ever-changing and unpredictable elements. The most important thing is to hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.
Comfort Comes First
If your outdoor wedding is taking place in summer, make sure your guests aren’t left out in the sun to melt. The two best ways to remedy the heat issue are setting up a shady tent and tray-passing cold beverages as guests arrive. Iced-tea, lemonade, or champagne are fantastic choices that will whet your guests' whistles and keep them cool. Hand out simple yet stylish fans that both make a statement and offer respite from the heat.
If a chilly climate is your concern, rent or purchase lap blankets, offer hot tea or cocoa, and set up heat lamps or portable heaters depending on how many guests you have. If your ceremony and/or reception will take place inside tents, which can be chilly, let your guests know in advance so that they dress properly with warm layers.
Expect the Worst
The key to successful outdoor wedding planning is to expect the worst. For example, expect that it will rain during your summer backyard wedding. You should have an indoor space available close by and a tent on hand, just in case. This will cost you some extra dough, but just remember that peace of mind is priceless.
When Wind Ruins What You’re Wearing
If you’re having a beach wedding on a cliff or in an area with the chance of high winds, choose a wedding dress and bridesmaids dresses that won’t blow up over your heads. While most beach wedding dresses are made of lightweight materials, you'll want a fabric that's more sturdy than silk or linen so that it has some chance against high wind gusts. Keep the wind factor in mind when choosing your hairstyle as well, or you could get caught with an unattractive case of “hair stuck in the lip gloss.”
Did You Know...?
Beach weddings can be dreamy but also loud. The calming sounds of the waves crashing and seagulls squawking are all a part of the overall ambiance, just make sure they don’t steal your thunder and drown out your wedding vows. Situate your wedding guests in a way that places them as close to you and your hubby-to-be as possible, or consider renting a P.A. system and either use body microphones or one regular sized microphone on a stand.
Don’t let the outdoor elements put a damper on your outdoor wedding ideas; instead, welcome and be prepared for them.
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