Swizzle Events Blog: May 2009

Hello friends! It's a holiday weekend and we've been outside enjoying the beautiful weather. Speaking of beautiful weather, I've been working on an outdoor wedding that will take place this coming weekend. We have Plan A for the perfect weather day, Plan B for the 50/50 chance of rain and Plan C if all else fails. Of course, we all want Plan A and hopefully our prays will be answered with a perfect June day in Tennessee.

An outdoor wedding requires a little more preparation and a lot more contingency planning. Here are a few tips that I use to keep it all beautiful and comfortable.

Comfort is priority. If the forecast is hot and sunny, be sure to have cold water available and hand fans (that can double as your program) for each guest. Your ushers can offer a small bottle of water to your guests as they seat them. If it's really sunny, you may want to have sunscreen on hand, as well. When the weather turns cooler, say for an autumn wedding, you should think about your guests comfort as well. You may want to provide small lap blankets at the ceremony site or rent portable heaters. Whether it's warm or cool, you should let your guests know in advance that you are planning an outdoor wedding so they can dress appropriately. Just slip a simple note in with the invitation.
Backup plans are mandatory. This is an obvious tip, but one you really can't afford to ignore. The weather is so unpredictable that you should never plan an outdoor wedding without a contingency plan for rain. Using a tent is probably the most popular option and will keep you and your guests dry and happy during a light to moderate rain. But, if it's windy or torrential you'll still be soggy under a tent. It's best to have a venue that offers an indoor location just in case you need it.
Think about background noise. A ceremony on the beach is breathtaking, but will your guests be able to hear you and the officiant over the crash of waves and whisper of the wind? The same is true for a ceremony in the park or on the rooftop of an urban hot spot. You can rent a clip microphone for the bride and groom and the officiant to help your guests hear every romantic word.
Plan for pests. If you are outdoors, then you'll have to deal with those pesky gnats, mosquitoes and other flying pests. Make plans to have your area fogged or use citronella candles to keep it all comfortable.
Plan for the wind. All outdoor locations will have windy conditions. Even a gentle breeze can wreak havoc with decorations, dresses and hairstyles. Avoid lightweight fabrics like chiffon and choose decorations that can be anchored securely. And, let your hairstylist know you'll be outside so they can help you plan a style that will keep you looking beautiful.
Think about amenities. Are restrooms available? If you are using a park or other public area, find out where the closest restrooms are located. You may need to rent a mobile restroom (so much better than a port-a-potty). Will you have access to electricity or will you need a generator? Will you have access to running water? This will be important for your caterer to know.
Don't forget the permits. Many outdoor locations require a permit for use. Check with your city parks department or local government to obtain a permit for your outdoor ceremony. You should also ask about requirements for trash removal, candle lighting, and pre-wedding photography.

So those are a few tips that come to mind as I think about planning an outdoor wedding. Now, here's a preview of the location that we are using for an outdoor wedding next weekend. Just look at the lush green lawns and pastures. The celebration will take place on a gorgeous horse farm north of Nashville. I can't wait to share pictures of their rustic elegant affair. It will be a feast of eye candy!