With spring soon upon us, more and more couples will be choosing to say their vows al fresco. An outdoor wedding can be a truly magical experience, with picturesque surroundings and good weather creating the perfect setting for your special day. However, there are challenges to consider too, especially if the elements aren’t on your side. Here are our top tips for hosting an outdoor wedding.
Have a bad weather plan
Whilst you can expect sunshine and mild temperatures in spring and summer in the UK, they’re not guaranteed. You should always be prepared for bad weather on your big day. Have a plan in place in case it rains, especially if you don’t have a backup indoor option. You could hire a marquee or provide guests with umbrellas to protect them from the elements!
Dress accordingly
If you’ll be saying ‘I do’ outdoors, make sure you dress accordingly. If you’re having an outdoor wedding in spring, consider a dress with long sleeves, and make sure you have a wrap, cardigan or even a dressy jacket on hand to keep you warm if the temperatures drop later in the day. If you’re getting hitched in the summer and you know it’s going to be a scorcher, opt for a dress with breathable, flowy fabrics or even a sleeveless dress.
Consider your shoes carefully too. Stilettos can cause you to sink into the grass all night, leaving you feeling awkward and uncomfortable. There are some really pretty flats out there that won’t make you feel like you’re walking on quicksand as you head down the aisle!
Make sure there’s some shade
The rain is not the only weather condition you’ll need to think about when getting married outdoors. The sun can prove troublesome when it’s at its strongest, making you and your guests feel uncomfortable when you’re outside for hours on end. Make sure your wedding venue Essex has plenty of shade outdoors. This could come in the form of natural shade from the trees or a gazebo or parasols.
Make sure your guests know it’s outside
Make sure your guests know that your wedding is going to be outside. This will ensure that they’re prepared on the big day. They’ll know whether to wear heels or flats and coats or cardigans, as well as to pack their sun cream and insect repellent if required! You can make it clear on your wedding invitations that it’s going to be an outdoor affair.
Book your venue early
Since outdoor weddings are normally limited to spring and summer in the UK, demand for the top locations will be high. Therefore, it makes sense to book your chosen venue early to avoid missing out. Securing your date early also means there’s less chance of your guests already having plans on your special day.
Crondon Park offers a fantastic outdoor setting for weddings. Talk to our team today to find out how we can plan your dream wedding in Essex.