Outdoor Weddings

Our rainy season is here and I am performing  two weddings outside this week end.

 One in a garden and one on the beach.  At this point rain is scheduled for tonight and tomorrow.  

 This has brought me to a new topic.  Outdoor weddings.  Although garden and beach weddings are beautiful and memorable, there is a little more planning and things to consider.

 1) Who will be on your guest list?

Will there be elderly people or others that may be uncomfortable on a 90 degree day on the sand or lawn?   

If so how will you keep them comfortable until you make your walk down the aisle?

 2) BE ON TIME!  Remember that your guests will be dressed and in the direct sun and wind. Please don’t keep them baking in the sun.  It is very easy for them to get sun stroke and a burn, keep them out there for as short a time as you can. Your reception will be much more fun if everyone is not exhausted from sitting out in the sun for a prolonged period.

 3) have some bottles of water available in an iced tub; this is just a caring gesture and much appreciated.

 4) Make sure the guests are aware that the wedding will be on the beach.  Dress theme of the wedding should be appropriate to the beach; a formal wedding may not be the right thing in the middle of summer in Florida.

 5) Supply flip flops for the guests to walk on the beach or a have a large basket for them to put their shoes if they choose not to wear them to their seats.

 6) Your programs on a fan are a great keep sake as well as practical on those warm days.

 7) Wear Sunscreen!  You may not think in the short time you are on the beach for your ceremony you will need it but you will!  Remember, you’ll have pictures after so your “sun time” is prolonged. A nice little gift for your wedding party may be sunscreen as well.

 8) Keep yourself hydrated.  Not only will you feel better in the sun, your skin will look fresher too.  You will also feel less tired on the big day.  Start drinking extra water at least 48 hours from your special day.

9) Limit your ceremony to 10 t0 15 minutes.  With the processional and recessional this will bring the wedding to approximately 20 minutes to 30 minutes.  This is a great time frame for all concerned.  (this tip is thanks to Paul Costello, Weddings by Paul)

10)  Are you in an area that could be prone to insects?  Don’t forget the bug spray!  Your guests with thank you. (this tip is thanks to Cynthia Basco from Sacinos Formal Wear)

 And most  important…

 11) Have a backup plan.  Unfortunately your wedding professionals are great at what they do but NO ONE can control the weather.   It may not be as warm as you expected in March or as dry as you expected in November, there is always a solution for the weather, but make sure you have your plan in advance. 

The day of your wedding may be too late.

Thank you to Beautiful Wedding Photography & Michael DePrisco & Alexis Photography

 

 

 

 

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