An outdoor wedding, especially in Australia, is simply stunning. We are blessed here in Australia for outdoor wedding venues and outdoor wedding locations; we have ocean views, countryside, harbour parks and more. Outdoor weddings can also be a budget friendly alternative to hiring a wedding venue. While some couples opt to hold an outdoor wedding ceremony only, others opt to host an outdoor wedding in entirety.
If you are thinking of hosting an outdoor wedding, here are seven (7) things to consider and help you plan the best possible outdoor wedding.
1. Outdoor weddings often require a permit
Probably not the most exciting of things to be thinking of when it comes to planning your outdoor wedding but without it, there will be no outdoor wedding. Whether you are planning to get married on the beach with the glorious sand between your toes or in a national park, most outdoor locations will require a permit to allow you to use the space.
Be sure you contact the relevant council before you set your heart on a venue and don’t forget to enquire about any conditions and restrictions to using the space. We have heard horror stories of people getting moved along by councils.
Furthermore, by getting a permit you are often informing the council of your wedding date, which lowers the risk of a council team or otherwise arriving to mow lawns or otherwise maintain the public space.
2. Outdoor weddings carry weather related risks
This might be stating the very obvious but the weather can be very unpredictable at times, even in some parts of Australia where is is gloriously sunny for most of the year. Whilst the weather will fall in the hands of mother nature on the day, you can take pre-emptive measures to ensure you are prepared for most eventualities, such as providing a shaded area for guests on a hot, sunny day, considering the positioning of the sun when deciding on the direction in which guests will be facing and ensuring any tents are sturdy enough to protect from strong winds.
In the unlikely, but not impossible event that you get hit with a freak storm that will prevent you getting married, wedding insurance can be your best friend. This will cover the cost of you having to completely rearrange your wedding should you need to.
3. Outdoor weddings need alternative plans (plan B’s)
Needless to say, having a back up plan to an outdoor wedding is highly recommended. Should mother nature decide to throw a tantrum, your wedding day can quickly succumb to an onslaught of unexpected rain. Ideally your venue should have an indoor option onsite else consider having a tent/marquee ready to go if need be or booking a reception space like a restaurant close by .
Maybe hire a tent just in case, or secure a nearby AirBnB for the bridal party that can double as a backup venue.
4. The comfort of your guests is vital to a successful outdoor wedding
You’ll probably have a rough idea of how the weather will be depending on the time of day and season you are getting married. If it’s a summer wedding and you know it will be hot and sunny, ensure that shade is available along with non-alcoholic refreshments to keep guests hydrated. If it’s going to be cold, perhaps provide guests with blankets and outdoor heaters. A few umbrellas wouldn’t go amiss either if the skies take a turn. Bunnings sell gumboots and umbrellas cheap.
5. Don’t let pests ruin your outdoor wedding
Keep the bugs at bay by providing citronella candles, especially if mosquitoes are going to be an issue, and insect repellent for your guests. Also, consider mozzie spray or similar as sometimes outdoor weddings (especially in the shade) can come with unwanted additional + ones.
6. Ensure your food is protected from fly’s and heat
Make sure the menu you have selected can withstand the weather. Shellfish and dairy won’t sit well in the sun. If having open food areas like a buffet or a dessert table, ensure that dishes are properly covered to keep them insulated and protect from bugs.
7. Outdoor weddings will need a power supply
You’ll need to consider providing your own power if it doesn’t already come available with your outdoor venue. Electricity generators will likely be needed for lighting, sound, fans, heaters, catering appliances and band/dj. You may need to have an electrician inspect the premises for safety and recommendations first.
