THE BEST OUTDOOR WEDDING TIPS
Outdoor weddings are romantic and beautiful and present a natural glow and backdrop for the bride and groom. Outdoor weddings in Southern California are beautiful in all seasons, but especially in the warmer months. It is important to remember that each season brings its own set of colors, climate, and weather conditions. When it comes to planning an outdoor wedding, you’ll want to consider not only your vision, but the guest experience when you are encompassing the magnificence of the great outdoors. Here are some of our best tips for outdoor weddings to consider.
What to Look for in an Outdoor Wedding Venue
While Southern California boasts the most ideal wedding weather year-round, rain or cooler weather may still be a possibility. Create a backup plan with your wedding venue in case the weather doesn’t hold up for an outdoor reception and ceremony. A combination wedding is always a great option so choose a location that gives you indoor options as well. You can have the main ceremony in the comfort of a lovely building and the reception underneath the stars, or vice-versa.
Sound and Lighting Requirements for Outdoor Weddings
No matter the size of your ceremony, during outdoor weddings the couple and their officiant should always be amplified. If you’re nervous about equipment interfering with your wedding’s pristine look, ask for wireless mics and work with your planner to hide any cables or stands. You’ll also need speakers placed around the space, but be sure cords are not a trip hazard to your guests. Hiring a qualified sound technician is a must or if you have a band or a DJ, they may be able to accommodate setting up the sound for the actual ceremony as well.
You can’t overlook the impact of unique lighting fixtures as it is an easy way to instantly lend a glamorous, romantic look to your event. You can twine branches with twinkling string lights, hang a chandelier from a large tree, or use oversized lanterns to create the look you love. Check with your wedding venue to see if they have outdoor heaters to keep your guests comfortable in case the temperatures dip in the evening hours.
Outdoor Weddings — What to Wear
You want your photos to be picture perfect so plan ahead for a bustle or underskirt worn under your gown to gently lift it off the ground. Also consider your shoe selection as stiletto shoes may not work well at an outdoor wedding. From being on uneven terrain, sinking into the grass, or tripping on cobblestones, you may wish you had worn a more sensible shoe. A wedge heel will be far more comfortable and practical, or you can always go for an elegant flat. Have fun picking out several different shoe options and be prepared to dance the night away.
Of critical importance is to let your guests know that you are planning an outdoor wedding. Include this information on your wedding invitation. As the weather temps can change throughout the wedding, they may want to pack a cardigan, wrap, or jacket that coordinates with their outfit. This garment can be handy even on a warmer day. A light sweater will keep the sun off their shoulders and can help to prevent sunburn.
You never know when the sun will shift. Chances are they may be in full sun, without the possibility of moving to shade, for at least a portion of the day. The last thing you want as the day progresses is a blistering sunburn so a good SPF sunscreen is a must. If the wedding is continuing outdoors into the evening, you may even want to consider having a natural bug spray available for your guests.
Decor for Outdoor Weddings
Work with the existing landscaping when bringing in more florals and be mindful of what flowers are in season for an authentic look and feel. No matter the season, neutral hues are classic and elegant and look lovely for events on grass lawns surrounded by green hedges. If you prefer a splash of color, choose your favorite hue, and create monochromatic flower centerpieces. Nearly every shade will look good with a neutral color palette featuring natural green accents.
If you are planning an outdoor wedding on the lawn of an estate, be sure to highlight the beautiful design of the home or garden during your ceremony. The arched doorways, columns, and unique architectural details make lovely backdrops for photographs. If you are planning an evening reception in the garden, use lighting elements that accentuate your theme and set the tone for a night to remember.
The Ebell is ideal for outdoor weddings. A picturesque courtyard garden can host intimate events or larger celebrations. The architectural details of this 1920s estate are stunning and it has 2 ballrooms, an art salon, theater, and lounge which provide elegant indoor options to host the ceremony and reception in case of inclement weather. Whether inside, outside, or both, the possibilities for creating your perfect wedding are endless.
Contact us today for a virtual or in-person tour of The Ebell Los Angeles.