Planning an outdoor wedding opens up a world of breathtaking scenery, natural light, and romantic charm.
But it also comes with its own unique set of challenges—from unpredictable weather to tricky logistics. Whether you're tying the knot in a garden, by the sea, or in a countryside field, a little forward-thinking goes a long way.
These 10 tips will help you plan a beautiful, seamless celebration under the open sky.
Be Comfortable
When it comes to outdoor weddings, comfort should never be an afterthought. The weather, terrain, and season all influence what you and your guests should wear. The goal is to look and feel good without fighting the elements. Prioritising practicality will keep the focus where it should be—on the celebration.
Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, chiffon or linen for warmer climates.
Avoid stilettos or thin heels that might sink into grass or sand; opt for wedges or block heels.
Offer accessories like blankets or parasols depending on the forecast.
Encourage guests to dress with the setting in mind—include guidance in your invites or on your website.
Have a Backup Plan
No matter how stunning your outdoor venue is, it’s essential to prepare for weather surprises. Rain, wind, or even extreme heat can change your day in a flash. A solid Plan B offers peace of mind and keeps your wedding running smoothly. From marquees to indoor spaces, backup options are your safety net.
Book a marquee or tent well in advance, just in case.
Choose a venue that has indoor facilities or a flexible layout.
Work with vendors who have experience with outdoor weddings and know how to pivot quickly.
Discuss your backup plan with your wedding planner or coordinator early on.
Plan for Wind
Even a gentle breeze can wreak havoc on décor, attire, and sound systems. Wind is often overlooked, but it's one of the most disruptive elements at an outdoor wedding. Tackling it head-on ensures a more polished, enjoyable event. Think secure, weighted, and wind-proof everything.
Use clips, pins or hair spray to keep veils and hairstyles intact.
Avoid flimsy signage or place cards that could blow away—secure them with weights or holders.
Anchor tablecloths with hidden clips or weights to stop them flapping.
Choose heavy floral arrangements or low-profile centrepieces for added stability.
Use a Sound System
Nature doesn’t come with built-in acoustics. Between wind, waves, and general outdoor noise, guests can easily miss your vows. A professional sound system ensures your ceremony is heard and felt. Don’t let technical issues silence your most important words.
Rent microphones for both the officiant and couple.
Test your sound system in the outdoor space prior to the big day.
Consider lapel mics to keep things discreet and hands-free.
Have a backup battery or power supply on hand in case of technical issues.
Decorations
Outdoor weddings allow you to draw inspiration directly from your surroundings. The key is to enhance the natural beauty rather than compete with it. Weather-resistant decorations and a cohesive theme go a long way. Simplicity and creativity will bring your setting to life.
Use fabric draping, bunting or ribbons that can withstand wind and sunlight.
Incorporate natural elements like wood, stone or wildflowers for a rustic feel.
Hang lanterns or fairy lights for ambience during evening receptions.
Avoid fragile or paper-based décor unless it’s properly secured and weatherproofed.
Food
Menu choices can make or break your outdoor wedding. Heat, humidity, and timing all play a role in what works best. You’ll want a spread that’s both appetising and stable in open-air conditions. With smart planning, your food will be fresh, fun, and guest-approved.
Choose dishes that don’t wilt, melt or spoil easily in the heat.
Serve cold options like grazing platters or salads alongside hot mains.
Coordinate serving times to avoid food sitting out too long.
Offer shade or cover for buffet tables to protect food from sun and bugs.
Drinks
Keeping guests hydrated is crucial, especially on warm days. An outdoor bar or refreshment station adds both function and flair. Beyond hydration, drinks help set the tone of the event—from laid-back to luxe. Serve up something that complements the season and your style.
Set up a water or lemonade station guests can access freely throughout the day.
Offer a selection of signature cocktails that reflect your personalities or theme.
Keep coolers or ice buckets nearby to prevent drinks from warming up.
Include alcohol-free options like iced tea, mocktails, or flavoured water.
Bugs
Bugs can be the biggest buzzkill at an otherwise perfect outdoor celebration. Mosquitoes, flies, and wasps can annoy guests and interfere with your dining or photo sessions. Combat them with proactive, guest-friendly solutions. The best repellents are both subtle and effective.
Place citronella candles or essential oil diffusers around seating and dining areas.
Offer mini bug spray bottles or wipes as part of your welcome bags or favours.
Avoid overly sweet floral arrangements or exposed food displays that attract pests.
Consider hiring a professional pest control service to treat the area a few days before.
Avoid the Sun
While natural light is a huge perk of outdoor weddings, direct sun can cause discomfort or even health risks. Heatstroke, sunburn, and squinting guests don’t belong in your wedding album. With a few tweaks, you can embrace the sun without letting it take over.
Time your ceremony for later in the day to avoid peak sun hours.
Provide parasols, fans, or sunglasses as favours or guest essentials.
Use tents, canopies, or trees to create natural shade zones.
Apply sunscreen before the ceremony and keep extra bottles available for guests.
Permits
Planning a wedding in a public park, beach or open land? You may need permits. It’s easy to get caught up in the romance of an outdoor setting and forget the red tape. Avoid last-minute hiccups by getting legalities sorted well in advance.
Contact your local council to check what permits are required for your location.
Secure event insurance if recommended or required by the venue.
Confirm whether noise restrictions or curfews apply to your chosen site.
Keep printed permits or permissions on hand for peace of mind on the day.
Final Thoughts
An outdoor wedding is a magical way to say "I do," blending natural beauty with personal flair. But pulling it off requires a blend of creativity, foresight, and flexibility. From securing your décor to protecting your guests from sun and bugs, every detail matters.
With these 10 tips, you'll be ready to enjoy the romance of the great outdoors—stress-free and picture-perfect.
