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So, you're having an outdoor wedding? Congrats! I had an outdoor wedding, and I'm so glad that I did (and it even rained on mine!). Nature is a great backdrop for photos, and guests really appreciate the scenery. Plus, indoor spaces, like banquet halls, can be limiting. Now, what do you need to plan for? Click to find out the 9 things you'll regret not doing at yours.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]
Having a weather plan
It's obvious that you should have a rain plan if you're getting married outdoors during rainy season--but you also need to have a sun plan. If the weather is too hot, you should provide shade and fans to guests. If the weather is too cold, you should have blankets or shawls for the ladies. If the weather is buggy, you should have bug spray. And so on.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]
Getting nighttime shots
Sure, the daytime photos will be amazing--but make sure your photographer gets things like the tent all lit up agains the night sky.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]
Getting heat lamps for the reception
The temps will go down even further at night, and if you're having dinner and/or dancing outside, you should consider getting heating lamps--even in the summer.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]
Having signs
Signs can be a great way to direct guests around the grounds and look fabulous in photos, to boot.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]
Having live music
You might think that you're limited on lighting and entertainment options outside, but that's not the case. Ask your planner to arrange for electricity throughout the venue. If you're really pressed, you can always have an acoustic set.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]
Having several fully-stock bars
If you're getting married in a large outdoor venue, make sure that you have several bars and food stations located throughout the venue. You want people to be walking about and enjoying the scenery--drink in hand.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]
Wearing sunscreen
Make sure the ceremony is performed under a tent or you'll be squinting the whole time. Give out sunscreens or sunglasses as favors in the summer. If you get burned easily, wear makeup that contains 15 SPF.
[Photo: Style Me Pretty]