Photography by Christian Marck Retratos
With the surge of outdoor wedding inspiration, more and more couples are dreaming of an outdoor ambiance for their special day. With choosing to go al fresco for your celebration there are a variety of factors that need to be considered. Décor, logistics, and attire are impacted as they move away from traditional concepts and adopt a natural, whimsical theme.
Popular outdoor décor includes rustic farm tables, sturdier seating, large billowy arches and arbors, and other natural structures. The use of wine barrels, assorted lanterns and eclectic lighting, as well as birch branches, tree stumps, leaves, rocks, and pine cones are being incorporated into these style weddings. Many outdoor venues offer several spots to enjoy, allowing you to have your ceremony in one location and reception in another. Chalkboard and lettered signs have become popular to direct guests around the property.
While being outdoors can pose some challenges, many couples have come up with fun and innovative solutions such as dessert tables that don’t sit out all night, food stations with attendants, fire pits and pashminas for colder weather, and bug spray buckets and hand fans for warmer climates. Weather will always be a factor when choosing your outdoor venue so it is advisable to have a backup plan. Have a tent on standby with a local rental company should it rain, have parasols and cold beverages readily available to keep guests from overheating, rent or buy propane tower heaters and check with your venue if they can accommodate your party indoors should the need arise.
Outdoor weddings come in varying degrees from a fun fairytale forest fiesta, to a sunny beachside soiree. The most important thing is to choose a concept and venue that reflects your personal style and makes the perfect backdrop for your love story.
