If you’ve recently got engaged or you’ve been thinking about your wedding for as long as you can remember, you may be considering lots of options when it comes to choosing a venue. With so many wonderful places around, it can be tough to decide where to host your special day. If you’re thinking of going outdoors, here are some pros and cons to bear in mind before you make a decision.
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The pros
Stunning scenery
Nothing beats rolling hills, dramatic mountains or sweeping golden sands. Not only can you tie the knot surrounded by incredibly beautiful scenery, but your photographs will also look spectacular.
Making the most of the weather
If you’re getting married in a hot country or sunny skies are forecast, it’s a shame to be cooped up inside on your wedding day. Getting hitched outdoors enables you to make the most of the weather and enjoy the fresh air.
Individuality
When you get married in the great outdoors, there’s scope to make your celebration truly unique. Most of us have been to a wedding at a hotel, a golf club or a castle. But have you ventured into the forest for a wedding, watched a couple say their vows by a lake or watched the sunset over the ocean after a ceremony before?
The cost
The cost of every wedding varies significantly, but often, hosting an outdoor wedding works out cheaper than hiring a venue. If you’re working on a tight budget and you’ve only looked at indoor venues, it may be worth visiting some outdoor options.
The cons
The weatherThe weather can be both an advantage and a disadvantage thanks to its unpredictability. A splendid setup could become a complete nightmare if the weather doesn’t play ball. If you’ve got everyone sat patiently outside or you’re planning an al fresco party, the last thing you want is torrential rain and high winds. If the weather isn’t guaranteed, try and come up with a plan B, just in case.
The practicalities
When you’re getting married outside, there may be some practical issues you need to consider, such as your electricity supply and where your guests are going to go to the toilet. Port a potty rental is a great solution for the latter while hiring a generator could work if you’re tying the knot out in the sticks. If you’ve arranged for caterers to prepare food on-site, they may have their own power supply, so liaise with them in the run-up to the big day.
Choosing a location for your wedding is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. If you’re considering hosting your ceremony and reception outside, there are lots of pros and cons to think about. If you’re struggling to narrow down your options, write a list, and see which venue comes out on top. Think about what you want to your day to look like, and the kind of tone you want to set. Celebrate your style and personality, and have fun adding some unique, personal touches.