5 Outdoor Wedding Planning Mistakes You Can Easily Avoid
Planning a wedding in Alberta’s beautiful outdoors is a dream for many couples, but it comes with unique challenges. At Pine and Pond, we’ve seen it all.
We are here to help you sidestep common pitfalls.
Here are five outdoor wedding planning mistakes to avoid for a stress-free and magical day.
1. Forgetting a Weather Backup Plan
The weather is one of the most unpredictable factors in outdoor weddings. Failing to prepare for rain, wind, or excessive heat can quickly turn a dream day into a logistical nightmare.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Choose a venue with a built-in weather contingency, like Pine and Pond’s clear reception tent. It can be opened up to let the gentle breeze flow through the reception space. If it is perfectly calm, large fans circulate the air to bring the cooler air in. When it is cold, rainy or windy, it can be securely closed up. Commercial heaters can heat things up to allow short-sleeved guests to remain comfortable throughout the evening program and dance.
Provide guests with things like umbrellas, hand-held fans, or blankets depending on the forecast.
Discuss rain plans with on-site staff who will go over your options and facilitate any changes that may need to be made.
2. Ignoring Guest Comfort
Outdoor weddings can expose guests to the elements, and discomfort can detract from their enjoyment. Common oversights include lack of shade, inadequate seating, and poor restroom facilities.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Choose a venue that has fans, or heaters depending on the season.
Ensure the venue has comfortable seating and shaded areas for older guests.
Ensure there are clean, accessible restrooms available.
3. Overlooking Sound and Acoustics
Outdoor spaces can make it difficult for guests to hear your vows or enjoy the music due to wind, open areas, or ambient noise.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Have your ceremony in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Choose a venue that provides a professional sound system designed for outdoor events or rent one if the venue doesn’t provide one.
Use microphones for the ceremony and speeches.
Do a sound check with the officiant and the person operating the sound before the ceremony.
4. Not Considering Bugs and Pests
Nature comes with its share of uninvited guests, and pests like mosquitoes can be a major annoyance during an outdoor wedding.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Select an outdoor venue, like Pine and Pond, that has virtually no mosquitoes.
Use citronella candles or bug-repellent sprays if your chosen venue is likely to be bothered by pests.
If you choose a venue known to have a pest problem, schedule control treatments at the ahead of time.
Provide guests with insect-repellent wipes or spray as part of their welcome kit.
5. Failing to Communicate with Guests
Outdoor weddings often require guests to be prepared for weather, uneven terrain, or specific attire. Lack of clear communication can lead to confusion or discomfort.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
Include clear details about the venue and dress code on your wedding website or invitations.
Provide directions and parking information.
Let guests know about any potential challenges, like walking on grass or gravel.
Choose a venue like Pine and Pond where the grass is flat, manicured and the paths are firm.
Conclusion
With careful planning and the right venue, outdoor weddings can be as magical as you’ve always imagined. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your big day is stress-free and unforgettable. At Pine and Pond, we’re here to help you navigate every step of the planning process and create the wedding of your dreams.
Plan Your Perfect Outdoor Wedding Learn more about our wedding packages by scheduling a tour here.
