1) Have a back up plan. A) Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate, but a simple solution is to consider is a tent. Tents can still give you the outdoor vibe while keeping your guest safe from sun, wind or rain. B) Add cancellation insurance to your event policy. Most policies will help if you need to move to another location or if you have to reschedule your date.
2) Make a Wedding Day timeline. Your timeline should include site logistics (setting ceremony, seating, restrooms, vendors, etc) and rehearsal day. The timeline should be distributed to the property manager, planners and wedding party. Don’t be afraid to consider hiring a professional coordinator. Day of coordination takes a lot of last minute tasks off your plate ie; contacting & confirming your vendors a week out to ensure they are following your wedding timeline, coordinating the Friday rehearsal per your specifications and coordinating your wedding day per your timeline. Making it possible for you & your guests to not have to sweat the details, so you can truly enjoy your wedding day.
3) Wedding attire. Let your groomsmen, bridesmaids and guests know well in advance that this is an outdoor wedding. Be prepared by supplying a few pairs of sandals/flip flops at the ceremony entrance or reception.
4) Be creative and entertain your guests. Utilize the natural landscape to create fun, exciting themes. Use spaces for games, photo booths and fire pits.
5) Ensure your guests comfort at all times. Provide the little things that count when you’re celebrating outside. A welcome station with a warm/cold beverage, bug spray or wipes if muggy/buggy, lap blankets if it’s cold, hand fans when it’s hot, umbrellas if it’s drizzling.
6) Amplify your vows. Your guests are going to want to hear what’s going on. Inquire with your venue or coordinate with your DJ or band.