Outdoor Venues in Cool Weather: Keep Your Guests Comfortable

Fall is in the air!  The leaves are on the verge of burnt amber, the scent of apples linger on the breeze
and evening brings a crisp chill.  It's a beautiful time of year for a wedding!  And if your heart is set on an outdoor venue, remember to think of your guests and how you can help them be comfortable when the mercury drops.  A little prep work will make your wedding guests oh so comfy!

Get the word out.  Include some "weather consideration" wording on your reception card (included with the invitation) to let your guests know your celebration will be outdoors.  Everyone will appreciate the notice, especially those women who leave their coat at home thinking they will "just be running from the car to the door".  (Yes, I'm usually that person!)

Warm hands and hearts with cold-weather drinks.  Everyone loves to sip a warm mug of apple cider.  And, it smells so yummy!  You could also offer a delicious coffee bar with all the trimmings.  And, if your ceremony is outside, don't wait for the reception to start serving up those warm mugs of deliciousness.  Set up a drink station for your guests at the ceremony.

Use your tent wisely.  What seems like a perfect location in the afternoon sun, can turn into a brisk whirlwind when evening comes.  To keep the winds at bay, use a tent with sides.  If the temps drop low enough, you should also plan to rent a heater (or two depending on the size of your tent). 

Lap blankets.  Such a simple idea, but wonderful none the less!  Fill a large basket with lap blankets for your guests to grab if they feel a little chilly.  Select fabrics that match your color scheme, roll them into little bundles and tie them off with a coordinating ribbon.

Yes, it may take a little more time and trouble-shooting to have a perfect outdoor wedding in the Fall. But, it would be worse to have your guests leaving early because they are too cold to enjoy your big day.

Photo:  James Jordan