I cannot tell you how much I love outdoor weddings for the light, sceneries and colors that I can capture. A lot of my brides opt for an outdoor ceremony and when planned well, having your wedding ceremony outside is absolutely amazing! Below are 7 things to remember if you are planning an outdoor wedding.

Tip #1: Determine when the sun sets and schedule the wedding day activities accordingly

If you love outdoor weddings like me, chances are you love natural light photos too! In order to make sure all your photos have the best lighting, it is important to schedule your ceremony at a time that allows plenty of time for photos. If you love the idea of a sunset ceremony (it’s so romantic), you might consider having a first look so that we can get all the photos done before your ceremony. If your groom wants to see you for the first time when you walk down the aisle, it’s better to have an earlier ceremony to leave time for portraits afterwards.

Tip#2: Have a “Plan B”

If only we could control the weather like we do with our AC! The weather cannot be 100% predicted, but you can always ensure the day still goes smoothly with a well thought out Plan B. In case of a chance of rain, it’s a good idea to have plenty of umbrellas available for your guests (and yourselves!). Find a covered space at the wedding venue where you, your wedding party and your family can huddle under for photos, OR a large white umbrella helps too!  Rain doesn’t equal bad photos. It actually can make for very romantic portraits!

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Tip #3: Beware of the wind!

Just like the rain, the wind comes when it pleases :). Any fabrics love the wind and would easily run away with it! Table cloths should have some weight on them and use table signs that are not too talk, so they don’t get tipped over. Also be sure to tell your Hair & Makeup Artist to style you in a way that lasts throughout the day, even in windy situations.

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Tip #4: Tell the wedding party to get hydrated if it will be warm outside

It’s so important to get hydrated during summer days, especially for an outdoor ceremony! I’ve seen a member of the wedding party pass out during the ceremony because it was so hot out and she was dehydrated! Also tell them not to lock their knees during the ceremony, because that would cause them to faint too.

Tip #5: Keep the bugs away

Bugs can be uninvited guests at weddings, so it’s a great idea to keep some citronella candles around to repel them. One thing to note is make sure you get candles with real citronella oil (vs. scented) because it wouldn’t work otherwise. Lemon eucalyptus oil works too.

Tip #6: If it’s cold, provide some fur wraps for the ladies

And it’s not just for your wedding party! Your guests will appreciate it too if it gets a little bit too chilly, especially for the ladies. Plus, your wedding will look so elegant and classy with your guests in their formal attires and fur wraps! You can find a lot of fur wrap options on Etsy.

Tip #7: Bride, focus on spending your wedding day with your loved ones…

…and know that everyone else – your wedding vendors and wedding party – will take care of the logistics for you. You can think about everything above and more BEFORE your wedding and DESIGNATE all the tasks to relevant vendors and your family & friends. On the day you get married though, always remember to relax and enjoy YOUR day as it unfolds!

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