Outdoor Weddings - The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.
Todays article is written by my MOH/MOB! I hope you all enjoy it!
Are you considering an outdoor wedding? I'll bet your mom is not on board with that idea. I was that mom, so I can relate. But I've been converted to the dark side (or rather, the sunny side!) on this issue, and I'd like to tell you why.
First, some background. For people of my generation and older, very few got married outdoors. Most people got married in a church and we still strongly believe in church weddings, so know that your mom means well if she's pushing you toward a church wedding. People did sometimes have outdoor, mostly backyard, receptions, but they didn't typically have all that Pinterest-y decor to deal with, or hire DJs, or serve a full meal to 200+ people. They tended to be simple receptions with mints, lemonade and wedding cake made by grandma. So, this outdoor wedding thing is a relatively new trend, and I think it's a good one. But there are some things to consider before you commit.
First, the Bad:
1. Sun. I know this doesn't seem like it could ever be a bad thing, but it can. If your guests are seated in the sun on a hot day, they will be uncomfortable. Grandparents should be provided with shade, at the very least. You don't want any medical emergencies on your big day! Sun can also be challenging for your photographer. You don't want the wedding party squinting into the sun or dappled sunlight casting spotty shadows on the bride's face, so be sure you hire someone with lots of experience in outdoor portrait photography.
2. Rain. This one is obvious. It can ruin your ceremony, forcing everyone indoors. It can ruin your hair, makeup, decorations and photography. Even if it barely sprinkles and you go ahead and have the ceremony outside, even a small amount of rain can keep you from setting up a sound system at the ceremony site, leaving you without music.
The Ugly:
1. Wind. A windy day presents challenges to your photographer and your sound system. Wind can make your veil constantly blow across your face, and photos of the bride and groom kissing look pretty awkward when the maid of honor's hands can be seen holding the veil out of the way! Wind can make your mother's hair stand at attention, and I'm sure that's a big fear of hers. It can ruin that makeup you paid $180 for. It can scatter your programs over the ground, tip over your signs, blow out your candles and whip through your tulle and floral draping until it comes loose.
2. Poop. Coming at you from above, and below. Lots of people are afraid of becoming a sitting target for bird droppings, and people don't enjoy stepping in stuff left by dogs or other animals, especially when they have dress shoes on.
3. Vermin. If your wedding is at a barn, you might encounter mice, a snake, a raccoon (they love wedding cake!) or even a skunk. This isn't likely, of course, but it's possible.
The biggest problem with the bad and the ugly is that they ruin the experience for your guests. It's selfish to throw a huge party without considering the comfort and enjoyment of your guests. So if you're certain you want an outdoor wedding, make sure there is shade and protection from rain by renting a huge tent. It will be worth the extra money.
Some of the perils of outdoor weddings can also be the advantages.
The Good:
1. Sunshine. A sunny day is a happy day. Outdoor venues are beautiful in sunshine, and your photos will be gorgeous. Photos of the wedding party in sunglasses are some of my favorites! It's amazing how a pair of sunglasses can bring out personalities and relax people who feel nervous or self-conscious. Sunsets are a gorgeous backdrop, as are shady areas. Pictures of the bride and groom with flowers or fields illuminated by the sun but out of focus in the background are absolutely gorgeous.
2. Rain showers. The threat of rain on a cloudy, overcast day creates gorgeous photo lighting. It adds a sense of drama to your day. Being caught in rain showers can be fun and memorable for everyone. And splashes of rain photograph very well in the hands of an experienced photographer.
3. Unique experiences. Lots of fun venues and activities are available outdoors. Campgrounds and s'mores make for memorable receptions; a farm that's been in the family for generations can be a sentimental addition to your day; bodies of water nearby can be used for a fun activity like floating (biodegradable) candles lit by each guest; your band or DJ can get loud outside without bothering the neighbors; and much more.
4. Cheap food. The food can be simpler and cheaper at an outdoor wedding. Think barbecue, having a cookout or clam bake, a picnic, or even a pig roast! A keg or cans of beer can be a cheap way to have an "open bar."
5. Comfort. If you like informal weddings, your guests can dress more comfortably. Women can wear flats and men don't need coats and ties at an outdoor wedding.
The first wedding where I was mother-of-the-bride was held on a sunny day, under a pavilion, with a barn reception where people overflowed outside on a patio and kids played on a playground. There was a pond with a dock that the bride and groom sat on and dipped their bare toes in the water. The second wedding was held on a day that threatened rain and was cloudy until the sun came out just before sunset. It was at a campsite with a lodge and an outdoor amphitheater. We made s'mores, played outdoor games, and stayed the night in cabins. Both venues were not only beautiful, but memorable. I highly recommend outdoor weddings. They are worth the risks. Tell your mom I said so.