There's a lot to think about when you're getting married outdoors. Temperature extremes, insects and inclement weather can all impact an outdoor ceremony and reception. If you're planning to have an outdoor wedding, these seven essentials will help your ceremony go well.
Shade
People wilt quickly in the hot sun. To prevent this from happening to your guests, provide them with a bit of shade. Large, overhanging trees are a nice source of shade but provide no shelter if it rains. A tent can add extra costs but will provide a nice area for the reception after the ceremony. With proper planning, you can even have both events in one tent. Research tent types before selecting the right one for you.
Water
Water stations, at both the ceremony and the reception, helps prevent guests from becoming dehydrated. Ask your wedding staff to keep the stations stocked full of water. An even nicer touch for guests is f ruit-infused water , but you should provide stations with un-infused water as well, for those guests with allergies or preferences for plain water.
Fans
Definitely! Air flow and breezes are critical, especially if you're getting married in mid- summer, Provide guests with programs that double as fans to help them cool off.
Primping Station
People can and will get hot and sweaty from dancing, or even just sitting in the summer heat. Provide your guests with a primping station, to give them somewhere to refresh makeup, wipe their faces and fix their hair. As a nice touch, provide guests with a range of lotions, sunblock, mirrors and combs. Decorate the table with flowers and a tablecloth.
Bug Repellant
Place individual bottles of bug repellent at your primping station to give your guests a way to protect themselves from mosquitos. Use citronella candles placed all around your ceremony and reception, and tape dryer sheets to the bottoms of the chairs.
Restrooms
Standard wedding venues will have indoor restrooms for guests to use, but in places not designed for weddings (like a barn or field), the nearest indoor restroom could be far away. Many couples hesitate to hire a porta-potty company for their big day, but did you know that luxury portable restrooms are available for wedding events? These portable toilets provide amenities like heat and air conditioning, porcelain fixtures and decorations.
Backup Plan
If it rains, will your guests be protected? What if it's too cold or hot? What will you do if there's wind? People who plan outdoor wedding ceremonies must have contingency plans for all occasions. If you're having a wedding in an established, reputable venue, ask them how they handle inclement weather. If you're holding your wedding in a non-traditional wedding space, like a park or the beach, work with a wedding planner to develop an air-tight backup plan.
Contact Bella Sera
Bella Sera's Tuscan-inspired villa provides a beautiful backdrop for your wedding ceremony. With seven acres of outdoor space, we can help you plan the perfect outdoor wedding. Call us today to make an appointment.Book your special event and let the authentic Italian flavors of Bella Sera make your special occasion one to remember.
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