subject: Having A Successful Outdoor Wedding [print this page] Most brides dream about an outdoor wedding, however, having a place to escape indoors offers the bride and groom some security so they don't have to worry about the weather. By planning an outdoor wedding ceremony with an indoor reception, you will have space to move the wedding inside in case of rain, snow, or exceptionally hot days.
A perfect example is a friend of mine who had a wedding in Sedona, Arizona in September. They had planned to have an outdoor wedding under the skies. When they heard weather might be moving through, they ordered a tent and were lucky to get one in time. The morning of the wedding, temperatures dropped and what was supposed to be rain turned to snow. None of their guests were prepared with warm clothes. They were able to secure two heat lamps for over 100 guests. Needless to say, the heat lamps were where all the guests congregated. People danced to stay warm.
There is a definite risk factor with having your wedding ceremony and reception outdoors. Even in temperate climates, the weather doesn't always cooperate. In places like Arizona, there can be monsoons to deal with or heat waves that are hard especially for elderly guests.
Often if the weather is bad and guests have nowhere to get in out of the heat or cold, they won't stay as long. They may even leave directly after the ceremony and as the bride and groom, you miss the chance to spend time with friends and family.
Another problem with outdoor weddings is guests may leave early if the weather is too much for them. Heat is one factor that might encourage guests to leave early. The cold is another factor that can drive people away early. For everyone's comfort, have the option of moving indoors after the ceremony.
Rain is always a possibility, especially if you are having your wedding in the mountains where weather can change rapidly. If you are set on being outdoors, be sure to have a tent secured for the day to ensure everyone can stay dry. At private venues, there is usually a separate area of the location that can be used for receptions or ceremonies.
Indoors, the setting is usually more elegant. The chairs tend to be more comfortable and no one has to run around re-lighting candles that are blown out from the wind. Decorations will stay on the tables.
There is no denying that being outside on a beautiful day can make for a memorable wedding. Being surrounded by blue skies and lush green plants is calming to the soul and to guests. But having the wedding ceremony and even the cocktail hour outside will be plenty. When it comes to the reception, most guests prefer being indoors where there are no bugs, where they can see and where they will be dining at a comfortable temperature.
