There’s nothing quite like an outdoor wedding – it’s Mother Nature’s own way of blessing your union with her green fingers. If you’re considering getting married al fresco, I, as a Derbyshire-based wedding photographer who has witnessed my fair share of ‘I dos’ under the sky, am here to offer my top tips for planning an outdoor wedding.
Grab your notepad and let’s begin our foray into the fantastic world of wild weddings.
Plan Your Outdoor Wedding
- The Quest for the Perfect Outdoor Venue
- Think Styling, Decor and Coherence
- Picking the Perfect Outfits for an Outdoor Wedding
- Consider the Time of the Year and Weather Conditions
- Embrace the Wild and Make it Uniquely Yours
The Quest for the Perfect Outdoor Venue
Hold on to your hats because we are diving into the wilderness of venue hunting!
This isn’t a stroll in the park, mind you – it’s the real-life safari of wedding planning. Your venue should be a living, breathing reflection of your love tale and personalities.
Maybe you’re the couple that fancy getting married amongst sunflower fields, or perhaps you would rather exchange rings beneath the shelter of centuries-old oaks. Maybe your love story deserves the dramatic backdrop of a rugged coastline.
The options are as vast as the ocean, quite literally.
This isn’t just about choosing a picture-perfect location for your outdoor wedding photos though. You need to consider the practicalities. For instance, check for necessary amenities – is there a toilet nearby or will your guests have to resort to nature? Evaluate ease of access – can Granny get there without needing a four-wheel drive or a pair of hiking boots?
And, crucially, remember that not all weather shares our romantic sensibilities. It might just decide to rain on your parade, or more accurately, your wedding ceremony. In such cases, having a plan B location is not just sensible, it’s as essential as the ring itself.
So, whether it’s a majestic chateau, a beach shack, or the rolling meadows, make sure you do your homework. Take this decision as seriously as you did when you said ‘Yes’ to that proposal.
And remember, in the unlikely event that the skies open up and your wedding turns into a Singin’ in the Rain tribute, just smile, because a bit of rain never hurt an outdoor wedding!
Think Styling, Decor and Coherence
Moving on to the matter of styling and decor.
An outdoor wedding lends itself to a pre-existing, breathtaking backdrop. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to embellish rather than smother.
Opt for adornments that complement the surroundings, for instance, woodsy touches for a forest fete or nautical nuances for a coastal celebration. It’s all about achieving harmony.
Lighting, too, deserves a tip of the hat. As the curtain of nightfall descends, a twinkling canopy of fairy lights can take your space from stunning to utterly magical. Lanterns, meanwhile, can serve as beacons, ensuring that guests navigate your alfresco shindig with ease.
So, bear in mind, amidst the thrill of saying ‘I do’ under the open sky, that the devil truly is in the details. The styling and decor can add an extra layer of charm to your wedding, enhancing the natural beauty of your outdoor wedding venue.
It’s your wedding, after all – make sure it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the heart.
Picking the Perfect Outfits for an Outdoor Wedding
Let’s cut to the chase. When it comes to choosing your outdoor wedding attire, the focus is two-fold: look dapper and be comfy.
You see, the best weddings aren’t just photo ops, they’re joyous, living, laughing celebrations! So, be wise and prioritise comfort as well as style.
Think twice before pairing a sand-swept aisle with sky-high stilettos. A sea of broken heels or barefoot bridesmaids might not be the memory you were hoping to create. Equally, unless you fancy resembling a rather red-faced lobster, a mid-summer affair might be the perfect excuse to ditch that stuffy, three-piece suit.
The key here is to opt for outfits that are weather-friendly. Light, airy fabrics are a godsend for a summer soiree, whilst a snuggly shawl can transform a winter wedding from frosty to fabulous.
Comfort is the watchword. You’re not strutting down a catwalk, you are striding into a new chapter of your life. Trust me, you want to do so without tripping over your train or loosening your tie.
Choosing the right outfits for an outdoor wedding is as much an art as a science. Consider the environment and season, keep the formality and style of your event in mind, and above all, wear something that makes you feel good.
After all, this isn’t just any old shindig, it’s the day you say ‘I do’ to your soulmate. So, make sure you do so looking, and feeling, utterly fabulous.
Consider the Time of the Year and Weather Conditions
Weather is the ultimate wedding crasher.
Ignoring it would be akin to playing Russian Roulette with your wedding day. So, as you fixate on the best date for your outdoor wedding, let’s not forget the importance of the good old British weather.
Summer is synonymous with weddings, and for good reason. The sky puts on its best blue, the sun graciously dons the role of a natural spotlight, and nature herself stands resplendent in full bloom.
But remember, even the seemingly perfect British summer can sometimes have a mood swing.
For a summer outdoor do, ensure there’s plenty of shade, hydration stations, and perhaps even some complimentary sunhats or fans.
For an autumn or spring affair, pack in a bit of extra warmth. Mother Nature may decide to take a chilly turn. Wrap up in cosy pashminas and serve up steaming mugs of hot chocolate or mulled cider to keep the shivers at bay.
Planning a winter wonderland wedding? Snow-capped trees and frosty fields can indeed be enchantingly beautiful. But, hypothermia isn’t exactly what you want your guests to take home as a wedding favour, is it? A warming outdoor wedding marquee, outdoor heaters and a hearty winter menu are your best pals in this case.
Remember, each season has its own charm and challenges. Research historical weather data, watch out for local events that might clash, and always, always have a plan B ready.
To weatherproof your wedding, consider hiring a marquee or a gazebo. Or perhaps there’s a barn or a country house nearby that can be decked up at short notice.
Whether it’s rain or shine, this is your day. Go forth and own it, whatever the weather!
Embrace the Wild and Make it Uniquely Yours
Finally, let’s talk about really getting into the spirit of a wild, outdoor wedding.
After all, it’s not just about surviving the wild, it’s about embracing it, celebrating it, and making it an essential part of your love story.
If your chosen venue is home to some showy peacocks, why not invite them to your photoshoot? They do love to preen and pose after all!
If your location boasts a sunset view that could bring a tear to a glass eye, then, by all means, schedule your vows for the golden hour. There’s no backdrop quite as romantic as the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold.
An outdoor wedding isn’t about keeping nature on a lead, it’s about appreciating the artistry she brings to your big day and incorporating it into your unique love narrative.
So, get your hands a little dirty, let your hair get a little windswept.
Remember, you’re not hosting a corporate gala; this is your wild, beautiful, untamed wedding, and it should be a reflection of you both.
Capture Your Wedding Day to Remember
And there you have it, my top tips for planning an outdoor wedding.
It’s about celebration, adoration, and a little bit of improvisation. So, saddle up and ride forth into the wilderness, making your dream wedding in the great outdoors a beautiful reality!
If you’re ready to enquire about your outdoor wedding photography in Derbyshire or beyond then get in touch with me today – I can’t wait to hear about your love story and plans.
