When you picture your wedding day, do you see lush greens and twinkle lights creating the most romantic ambiance? Guests laughing under the stars? A garden ceremony surrounded by blooms? If so, an outdoor wedding might be calling your name.

But before you decide, there are some important things to think through. Outdoor weddings can be stunning, but they also come with some serious considerations that will impact your planning. Here are the top five things you need to know before saying “yes” to the great outdoors.

1. Nature Is the Best Backdrop

One of the biggest perks of an outdoor wedding is that you don’t need much to create beauty. Lush gardens, sprawling lawns, or serene water views all set the stage for your day. This natural canvas enhances your design and often means you can focus your décor budget on intentional details instead of trying to transform a blank ballroom. The result? Effortless elegance.

2. Your Design Options Are Endless

Because most outdoor spaces are flexible and open, you can build a layout that feels uniquely yours. Want a dance floor under the stars? Lawn games during cocktail hour? A mix of round and rectangular tables for dinner? The possibilities are wide open (literally!). Outdoor spaces give you the chance to dream bigger when it comes to design and flow.

3. Weather Will Always Be a Factor

Here’s the reality: rain, wind, heat, or chilly evenings are all possibilities. And while you can’t control the forecast, you can plan for it. Having a tent on reserve (and the proper permits) is a smart move, as is providing guest comforts like shade, fans, heaters, or blankets. A solid “Plan B” crafted with your planner will give you peace of mind so weather doesn’t dampen your joy.

4. Logistics Matter More Than You Think

When your wedding takes place outside, you’re essentially building a venue from the ground up. This means thinking through things like: Is the ground level enough for a tent or dance floor? Do you need extra lighting or restrooms? Will there be background noise like traffic or buzzing insects? None of these are deal-breakers, but they do require careful planning so your day feels seamless and comfortable.

5. Guest Experience Should Come First

At the heart of your wedding is hospitality. Outdoor weddings are beautiful, but guest comfort should be a priority. Consider how the weather, terrain, and timing will affect your friends and family. Thoughtful touches – like offering drinks before the ceremony, providing parasols in the heat, or cozy wraps in the evening – make your guests feel cared for and allow them to celebrate fully alongside you.

Is an Outdoor Wedding Right for You?

If you dream of a romantic, garden-inspired celebration and love the idea of dining and dancing al fresco, then an outdoor wedding might be the perfect fit. Just be prepared for the extra logistics, create a backup plan, and keep guest comfort in mind.

At the end of the day, it’s not about whether your wedding is inside or out – it’s about creating a day that reflects your story and allows you to be fully present. With the right planning and design, an outdoor wedding can be everything you’ve dreamed of and more. Ready to get started? Let’s chat!!