Outdoor Wedding Venues are all that, plus a piece of chocolate wedding cake!
Maybe chocolate wedding cake isn’t your thing but choosing an outdoor venue for your wedding is a decision that you will not regret. If you have already decided on an open-air wedding, consider these 5 “must-haves” for your special day. If you’re still on the fence about walking down our grassy aisle, check out Open Air Barn Weddings – By Popular Demand.
No. 1 – Solid, Comfortable Shoes
(The No. 1 Outdoor Wedding Must Have)
This should be a no brainer, but we have to say it. Choosing sturdy, comfortable shoes to wear the day of your wedding is by far the absolute most important outdoor wedding must have! Yeah, sure, the rhinestone heels with feather tassel is dreamy and screams boho meets glam Bride… but you know what also screams? Your feet… If boots aren’t your thing, consider a custom pair of vans or converse – you can even have them monogramed.
No. 2 – Relative Shot List for Your Photographer
Making a shot list that you want for your photographer is a great idea regardless of where you get married. Some photographers even require that as part of their booking packet. Getting married in the Spring? Check out the venue’s social media or website to find other photography shot around the same time. Being familiar with the venue and photo ops ahead of time is a very crucial Outdoor Wedding must have and a great way to get the very best wedding photos.
No. 3 – Choose the Right “Timing”
Weddings are all about timing. From the time you get engaged until the time you get home from the honeymoon, pretty much everything revolves around “timing.” When choosing to get married at an outdoor wedding venue, it’s important to consider your timeline even further. The season you choose to be married will also greatly affect your timeline and should not be forgotten, especially if you’re planning months in advance. Opt for a ceremony approximately 1 – 1 ½ hours before sunset. This gives you plenty of time for the ceremony, photos with the wedding party & family (btw… if you don’t already know this, you will burn about 20 minutes just trying to get everyone where they’re supposed to be… even though you already told them 10 times… trust me, we know.)
No. 4 – Weather Specific Pre-Favors
Calling these items “pre-favors” because they might not be your actual wedding favors but should be available to your guests during the length of your wedding & receptions. Hand held fans for a Summer wedding or hand warmers for a late Fall wedding are both good examples of the number 4 outdoor wedding must haves. If you’re looking for something a little more out of the box, consider draping antique quilts over the pews. Guests can use them during your ceremony to stay warm. Personalized sunglasses for your guests (especially if your ceremony is 2-3 hours before sunset) can be a great pre-favor, too.
No. 5 – Bring the Rain Gear
(Outdoor Wedding Must Have – for the Fun Bride)
No one wants to hear the word rain anywhere near the word wedding day. Equally so, no one wants to hear about some legend that rain on your wedding day means good luck either! (Blah Blah) But hear me out; If it rains on your wedding day, we’ve got you covered, literally. With a little re-arranging, the reception barn can be quickly converted to cover your “I Do’s” and all of your guests. Once the vows are exchanged and you’ve had time to hug your guests, throw on some rain gear and make the most of a soggy situation. It won’t take you long on pinterest to find a clear Bride worthy umbrella. And if you’ve had your eye on those adorable Hunter rain boots, do it girl.. BUY THOSE BOOTS!
Make yourself a little list, save this post to your wedding board or write it on the walls. Be sure to remember these top 5 outdoor wedding must haves – They will be the icing on that delicious chocolate cake.
