8 tips for planning a perfect outdoor wedding

culled from:pulse.ng

If properly organized, outdoor weddings can be really romantic and unique.

There's just something very exciting about a couple exchanging vows in the open with family members, friends and well-wishers in attendance.

A growing number of couples are ditching the traditional indoor weddings for open air ceremonies.

If the weather is pleasant, you'll definitely have a fantastic wedding. But even if the whether fails to cooperate, you can still have an enjoyable day.

Here are eight helpful tips for planning the perfect outdoor wedding:

1. Ensure easy access: Older guests or those with mobility issues may have a little problem navigating some outdoor terrains. When searching for locations, choose a spot that is wheelchair-accessible and can be easily traversed. Bear in mind that the venue can become water-logged and challenging to walk over if it rains on the day of the wedding or before. Plastic or fabric runners can make things easier. Your venue should also be close enough to a parking lot so as not to require guests to take an extended hike through the grounds.
2. Be mindful of the weather: The perfect time for outdoor weddings is when the weather is warm. However, this does not mean you should subject your guests to several hours of exposure to sunlight. This can become very uncomfortable for them. Therefore, advice your wedding guests in advance that the ceremony is taking place outdoors and to dress accordingly. Also, arrange to have shades or canopies for guests who can't cope with the heat. Be sure to have chilled bottled water or drinks nearby so that your guests can stay cool and refreshed. If the weather is very hot, ask the officiant to keep the ceremony as brief as possible so that guests won't remain in the heat for too long.
3. Face away from the sun: The glare of sunlight can make it difficult for guests to see the ceremony. Make sure you arrange seats in such a way that guests don't have to look into the sun. This can be achieved by having the sun behind everyone for the ceremony. It also ensures that you won't end up with washed-out photos or pictures of everyone squinting.
4. Be mindful of wind: Strong gusts of wind can wreck havoc on your hairstyle and upset tents. Make sure that everything outdoors is properly secured and weighted down. Avoid light fabrics on wedding gown that can be swept up in the wind. Go for a short blusher veil instead of a sweeping train. Secure your hairstyle with gel and bobby pins, and remember to inform your guests that you're having an outdoor wedding. For food service, stick to stoneware dishes or china instead of plastic or lightweight materials that may get blown away.
5. Budget for a canopy: It's always a good idea to have a contingency plan. You'll still need to have a backup plan in place even if you have your heart set on an outdoor wedding, in case the weather proves uncooperative. A canopy/tent with sidewalls may be sufficient. Otherwise, determine if there is an indoor locale that can be kept on standby.
6. Make sure food is properly chilled or heated: Dining outdoors means keeping food safety in mind. Any food that is supposed to be kept cool should remain on ice or be refrigerated until served. So also, hot foods should remain hot. Food in chafing dishes or served buffet style should be protected from insects. Improper handling of food can result in foodborne illnesses. No one wants to remember a wedding for the intestinal discomfort it caused.
7. Use fresh flowers in potted plants: Cut flowers tend to wilt in hot weather, so instead of wasting money and flowers, go for potted plants that will thrive if well-tended. You can also let guests can take the plants home as a memento that will last long after the wedding is over.
8. Check for power sources: Choose a wedding venue that has easily accessible power outlets. Guests will definitely want to hear the vows, and that may require the use of microphones and a sound system. Having power available also makes it easier for bands and musicians to set up their equipment. In addition, if the wedding will be stretching into the evening hours, electricity will be needed to power lighting to illuminate the festivities.