Planning an outdoor wedding is a dream for many couples—a celebration under the open sky, surrounded by nature’s beauty. When it comes to planning an outdoor wedding you have to take into consideration unpredictable weather, decor choices, and other factors that impact your big day. To help you navigate these waters, we’ve compiled a list of the essential dos and don’ts of outdoor wedding decor. Let’s ensure your special day is as stunning as it is seamless!
Introduction to Outdoor Wedding Decor
Outdoor weddings offer a unique canvas for creativity. The natural backdrop alone—whether it’s a lush garden, a serene lakeside, or a rustic vineyard—provides an unmatched ambiance that’s hard to replicate indoors. But while nature is your greatest asset, it’s also something you’ll need to work with carefully. Decorating for an outdoor wedding requires a blend of practicality and style, making sure everything not only looks beautiful but also holds up against the elements. Let’s dive into what you should absolutely do—and what you should avoid—when decorating for an outdoor wedding.The Dos of Outdoor Wedding Decor
Do Consider the Natural Surroundings
One of the biggest advantages of an outdoor wedding is the beauty that Mother Nature provides. When planning your decor, take a moment to appreciate the surroundings. Whether your venue is framed by towering trees, a sparkling lake, or colorful blooms, use these natural features as the foundation of your decor.- Enhance, Don’t Compete: Choose colors and decor elements that complement the natural landscape. Soft, neutral tones often work well, letting the environment take center stage.
- Floral Accents: If your setting includes gardens or flowers, incorporate similar blooms in your arrangements to create a seamless look.
Do Plan for Weather Conditions
Mother Nature may be beautiful, but she can also be unpredictable. Weather is a major consideration when decorating for an outdoor wedding, so it’s crucial to plan for all possible scenarios.- Weather-Proof Your Decor: Ensure that any decor you choose to use is suitable for outside and won’t be damaged in case of rain. Beat The Heat: If you’re hosting a summer wedding, think about ways to make your guests more comfortable outside, hand fans, bottles of water on each seat, and misters can make a big difference!
- Rain Contingency: Always have a backup plan for rain! Luckily if you book your wedding at The Mill Lakeside Manor we monitor weather changes closely and can easily get you moved into our ballroom for your ceremony!
Do Create Comfortable Spaces
Your guests’ comfort should be a top priority. While the outdoors can be breathtaking, it can also come with certain discomforts—like uneven seating or a lack of shelter.- Seating Arrangements: Consider adding unique and personal touches to your venue’s outdoor furniture like blankets and personalized pillows.
- Lounge Areas: Work with your venue to create inviting lounge spaces both inside and outside where guests can gather and unwind. At The Mill Lakeside Manor, our outdoor deck off of our Cocktail Hour room is perfect for guests to enjoy the outdoors!
The Don’ts of Outdoor Wedding Decor
Don’t Overlook the Practicalities
- When planning an outdoor wedding it can be easy to go overboard with decor and fun elements. Consider the practicality of everything you include in your wedding to ensure it exceeds your expectations on your big day! Level the Ground: If your venue has uneven ground, ensure that tables and chairs are stable. You can use wooden planks or flooring solutions to create a stable surface.
- Secure Everything: From florals to signs, make sure everything you choose for your big day is suitable for the outdoors.
Don’t Overdo It
When decorating an outdoor space, less is often more. The natural surroundings are already doing a lot of the work for you, so avoid the temptation to go overboard with decorations.- Keep It Simple: Opt for elegant, understated decor that enhances the environment rather than overpowering it. Focus on a few key areas rather than trying to decorate every inch of the space.
- Quality Over Quantity: Invest in a few standout pieces—like a beautiful archway or charming lanterns—rather than scattering lots of small items everywhere.
Don’t Ignore Local Regulations
Every outdoor venue will have its own set of rules and regulations, especially when it comes to decorating. Before you start planning, make sure you’re familiar with these guidelines to avoid any last-minute surprises.- Check for Restrictions: Some venues might have restrictions on what you can and cannot use, especially when it comes to things like open flames or hanging decor from trees.
- Respect the Environment: Particularly in natural settings, be mindful of the environment. Avoid using decor that could harm the local wildlife or vegetation.
Photographer: Lime Light Entertainment