Although you may not be able to control the weather on your wedding day, with a few weather-proofing pointers, you can make sure—rain or shine—your special day goes off without a hitch.
1. Give guests a heads-up. If your vows will be exchanged outdoors, let your guests know in advance. This will give everyone time to plan their outfits accordingly. It’s also a nice gesture to provide bug spray and sunscreen on-site.
2. A tent for all seasons. Tents are win-win for outdoor celebrations. On sunny days they provide shade, and if it rains, a tent will provide coverage from the elements while still giving you the beauty of being surrounded by nature. Tents can be rented in a variety of different styles (with a roof only; completely closed in; covered pathways and optional side panels). With so many to choose from, you’re sure to find a tent to suit your celebration.
3. Plan B. In case of a serious downpour, or dramatic weather change, it’s always nice to have a place indoors that the wedding can be quickly moved to. Check if your chosen venue offers an alternate location in case of a weather emergency.
4. Electrical matters. Make sure your venue has a power source that can handle all your electrical needs like DJs, lighting, caterers, etc.
5. Au naturel decorations. Be grateful to Mother Nature for cutting your decorating costs. Thanks to the flowers, scents and greenery provided by the great outdoors, you’ll spend less on fixing up your location. Simple and cost efficient decorations for outdoor weddings include hanging lanterns and strung lights. You can also plant extra colour-coordinating flowers, or bring in additional potted plants to liven up a bland area.
6. Higher ground. When picking the perfect area for your “I dos” think higher, not lower. If the spot you choose is lower than the surrounding area, you risk the chance of muddy grass and wet feet. And if it rains the night before your wedding, the area might be soaked and take extra time to dry.
7. In full bloom. When researching photo venues, don’t take the gorgeous foliage for granted. Flowers may be the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding, but make sure they’ll be in bloom on your chosen day. If your wedding is out of season, opt to plant, or bring extra flowers if the premises will allow it.
8. Blinded by the light. Consider where the sun will be in comparison to where and how your guests will be seated. Arrange for your guests’ backs to be facing the sun so they can enjoy every minute of your “I dos.” It’s also better to have plastic or wooden chairs instead of metal ones, so your guests don’t overheat when the sun warms them up.
9. Blown away. The last thing you want after all your hard work is to have a gust of wind blow away your place cards. To set them right, put the cards in small keepsake frames, so your guests have a memento of your special day. You could also attach a bag of goodies to keep the cards in place. A single flower with a name card attached blends quite nicely with an outdoor theme.
10. Motorhome 101. What about a powder room? Consider renting a motorhome that can double as a washroom and a place to freshen up. It’s the perfect, portable place to do your hair and makeup on-site, or where you can relax with your wedding party. An added bonus is that motorhomes can also keep food cool and fresh all day long.
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