Ten Tips for a successful outdoor wedding

One of the great things about an outdoor wedding is that the experience is completely unique. Choosing a location that is special to you and your partner will set the overall theme and will influence the whole day. There are of course things to consider when organising an outdoor wedding. The obvious one being weather. Have a look at the Bride Online Top 10 Tips for a stress free outdoor wedding ceremony to remember (for all the right reasons).
Permits

Most councils require permits for the use of public places. Make sure you plan ahead to avoid disappointment and to ensure you don't have to share your location with another wedding or event!
Hello Sunshine

Consider the orientation of your outdoor wedding and have the sun on guests' backs rather than in their eyes! If you are having a sunset wedding make sure that you check the time and plan accordingly!
Make your guests comfortable

Whilst you can’t predict the weather you can do your best to make your guests comfortable. Extreme weather conditions can throw a spanner in the works so keep the following in mind:

    Preempt bad weather and save your guests from melting/freezing by having heating/cooling on hand. Giant fans/outdoor heaters will provide some comfort
    Seat guest where possible. There is nothing worse than a 30 minute ceremony with heels sinking into the ground/standing in blazing heat
    Provide guests with bottled water in extreme heat
    Print your program on a fan so guests can cool themselves
    Provide knee rugs for older guests in freezing weather
    Provide shelter (a marquee etc) from sun/rain
    Provide female guests with flat shoes that they can wear to walk to and from the ceremony/reception

Decorations

The great thing about outdoor weddings is the natural beauty so there is almost no need to decorate. You still need to make sure that the area is neat and tidy, especially if it’s a public place. Nominate a member from the bridal party to go down and check the location the day before the wedding. Make sure the area is clear of litter and check for any graffiti. Flowers, chiffon, lanterns, torches, flags, fairy lights and archways can all be added to enhance your outdoor wedding, just make sure they are secured!
Have a backup plan

What will you do if it rains? Make sure your ideal outdoor wedding location has a backup plan. Many outdoor ceremonies have indoor receptions. In the case of bad weather move your ceremony into the reception area and try to position to guests as though they are facing outdoors. A marquee is another option, make sure it’s able to withstand heavy rain and moderate winds and is anchored securely.
Dress for all occasions

Trying to keep hair intact, lipstick sand free and dresses down can turn a lovely beach wedding into a three ring circus. Keep in mind that standing on cliff tops and on the sand is probably best for photos and not great for those wearing chiffon and silk!
Can everybody hear?

When you picture your perfect outdoor wedding can you hear the roar of the ocean? The wind blowing your vows down the beach in the opposite direction or the traffic in the distance? Make sure your guests can hear your vows by asking your celebrant to bring along a microphone and portable PA system.
Menu Choices

Choose your menu according to the weather. Seafood, dairy and mayo are best left off the menu if you plan on having them left on tables in the heat. Your caterer will be able to provide suggestions based on what will and won’t work for your outdoor reception.
Drink Up!

Provide a non alcoholic drink for guests before, during and after the wedding ceremony. Provide bottled water, punch or soft drink to ensure they stay well hydrated and don't end up tipsy before you say I do!
Pest Control
Provide fly spray, mosquito spay and citronella/bug candles to make sure swatting is kept to a minimum