The Inside-Outside Dilemma

You’ve picked the date and narrowed down the city, but should you hold your wedding indoors or outdoors? Those outdoor celebrations always look so romantic and beautiful, but if it rains or the weather turns wilting hot, will you be equipped to keep everything dry and comfortable for your guests? Clearly you want to create a day that everyone will remember, but not because a gust of wind took the centerpieces for a ride!

Obviously, weather is one determining factor for deciding if you should have an outdoor wedding, but it’s not the only one. For one thing, if your chosen location provides a large enough outdoor space and you’re willing to rent a tent; you can sidestep most weather snafus and still have a gorgeous romantic outdoor affair. (Imagine candlelight, flowers and opulent fabric draping the tent.) Do keep in mind the likelihood of major weather problems that might be typical to your location at your specific time of year (such as snow or hurricanes), and consider if you’re willing to take that risk. Should there be a chance of severe weather; be sure to have a back-up plan (maybe two) just in case you have to move the festivities inside or to another location nearby.

Weather issues aside, outdoor weddings are a wonderful option whether you're having a small, intimate celebration and don’t want a big room or hall, or if your guest list is large and you can’t find a spacious enough venue that you and your fiancé like. Outdoor locations can also hold sentimental value if, for example, the wedding is held in the backyard of your parents’ home or on the beach where you got engaged.

If you do choose an outdoor wedding, be aware of a few potential glitches. One such matter to take into consideration is attention to wedding-party attire. Choose shoes and a dress style that are comfortable regardless of the weather or flooring (grass lawns are difficult in stilettos), and avoid long, trailing hemlines that could be ruined by mud or damp grass. Don’t forget a wrap or jacket in a fabric warm enough for cool evening temperatures—and don't forget about your bridesmaids as well!

In addition, you’ll need to consider how many chairs, tables, linens and gas heaters you may need to rent—along with portable toilets if there are no nearby bathroom facilities. If the wedding will be in a remote or off-the-beaten-path location, your caterer, band, photographer and videographer may charge extra to transport food and equipment. Make arrangements for a microphone if your guests number more than 25 people, so that everyone will be able to hear you say your vows, and be sure to test the wiring, acoustics, wind distortion, extension cords and speakers ahead of time to avoid technical difficulties.

Your guests’ comfort should be at the top of your mind when planning any event, and an outdoor wedding is no exception. If you can, arrange chairs to face away from the sun, and if you have a mid-summer date planned, opt for setting up awnings for those who might need the shade. Do keep the ceremony short, sweet and to the point—and try to be flexible if Mother Nature steps in and causes you to re-work your plans. If your wedding vows are heartfelt, and you have a plan B or C, bad weather won't be able to ruin your special day!

To get more information on indoor and outdoor wedding locations, and to get detailed quotes on wedding packages, please visit WeddingLocation.com.