June 22, 2007
Planning an Outdoor Ceremony
You have decided that your wedding ceremony is going to be held outdoors. Whether you have decided upon a wedding at the beach, in a park, or even in your own backyard, you must take the time to learn about the challenges of having your wedding ceremony outside.
You cannot plan the ceremony alone!
This can be your biggest mistake. Unless you have been a professional meeting planner, you should not attempt this type of ceremony or function on your own. Think of it in terms of catering or even the photography. You would not attempt to bake your own cake, or take your own photos at the wedding, would you? Let the professionals do their job. Hire a Wedding consultant who specializes in outdoor weddings.
Talk to people who have had their wedding at your location, if possible
You need to hear the best and worst about your location. Of course, you will want to hear all of the good things. And as much as you may not want to hear it, you will need to hear about the bad things that have occurred at previous ceremonies (this may stop these pitfalls from happening to your wedding).
Have a back-up plan
You do not want to think about bad weather, but depending upon your location, you should have a back up plan. At least find a location where you can have the ceremony, in case of inclement weather.
Delegate, delegate, delegate
In addition to hiring a wedding consultant, learn to put others in charge of the smaller tasks associated with your ceremony. Bridesmaids are an excellent resource for you on your big day!
Limitations
Know your limitations. Outdoor weddings can be costly. If you are not up for the challenge financially, then take the time to learn your limitations.
Parking/ground
An outdoor wedding ceremony may have parking that is not exactly close to the actual ceremony. Are handicapped ramps available for those who have trouble walking? Are people going to be unable to wear heels because of the ground? This is something to consider. In addition to your shoes, will your dress be touching the ground?
Willingness to adjust
Lastly, you will need to realize that the biggest obstacle you will be facing is your willingness to adjust. An outdoor ceremony can have many changes over the course of twenty or thirty minutes. As the bride, you will need to be willing to “roll with the changes” and not sweat the small stuff.
Filed under Planning Your Wedding by Chris Morton