The Schultzes

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So you want to have an outdoor wedding?

Outdoor weddings and receptions celebrate your love for each other in the fresh beauty, romance and overall ambiance that only the open air can provide. So much goes into the planning of an outdoor event, but the payoff can be wonderful. If you’re up for it, you’ll need to develop a game plan.

As with most weddings, your first decision is location. An at-home event can be especially meaningful, but there are also special challenges in dealing with issues such as parking, landscaping, setting up work areas for caterers, considering neighbors, etc. Remember, too, that you and your family will have to cope with on-site preparations before the event – added stress that you may wish to avoid.

Most couples find that a venue where professionals are available to oversee the event is a better option. Choose a site that offers outdoor space with a backup facility, such as an inn, historic plantation or estate home, country club, museum, botanical garden, or even a restaurant or hotel, in case rain, wind or excessive humidity threaten your event.

Once you’ve chosen a location, you’ll need specific instructions for vendor deliveries, alternate seating accommodations and possible pest control. There is also tent installation, availability of electrical outlets and extension cords, zoning restrictions on live music, decorations, and guest parking, just to name a few. And of course, you should always be prepared for contingencies.

Check out our list of Locations.

Read more of our Planning Articles.