Plan your perfect outdoor wedding

Outdoor weddings, especially in Queensland, Australia can be stunning, enjoyable and incredibly memorable.

I have been celebrant at many outdoor wedding ceremonies over the years and they have all been delightful and memorable. Most have gone off without a hitch... I do remember one summer ceremony on a secluded beach when the heavens opened but luckily there were plenty of umbrellas on hand and the ceremony completed successfully without needing to run for cover! Careful planning can ensure your outdoor wedding is as close as possible to how you have dreamed.

Here's a few thoughts on how to prepare for your outdoor wedding

Wet weather

Wet weather is every bride's nightmare. You can’t control the weather, but you can prepare for it. Organise a nearby undercover ceremony location or a portable marquee as a back up. If it’s just light rain, you may get away with umbrellas, but heavy rain you may need to move.

Keeping guests comfortable

Offer a hydration station in the shade, and have plenty of ice to keep extra drinks cool. On the table consider also offering sun screen, inspect spray (or have some citronella candles burning), and paper fans (with a printed wedding program).

Consider the position of the sun and where the shade will be for the time of day of your ceremony. Ensure you don't have anything important that can blow away with a gust of wind.

Ensure there is sufficient seating for any elderly guests and ensure your guests can hear the ceremony.

Wind, outdoor noise or talking guests (very rude but unfortunately it does happen!) can mean many guests cannot hear your ceremony. This can be disappointing. Your celebrant should offer a microphone and speaker. I have a cordless microphone and battery operated PA.

Council Approval

If your wedding ceremony isn't on private land, you may require a council permit. You can do a quick google search for your location and confirm, or contact your local council just in case. The last thing you want is a council officer turning up at the last minute and turfing you out! Please note this is not the responsibility of your Wedding Celebrant.

Bathrooms and parking

Consider bathroom facilities and parking, does your location offer these facilities and is there somewhere close for any vendors eg caterers to park so they don't need to walk long distances with heavy boxes/trays etc.

Guest engagement after the ceremony

Think about the time between the ceremony and before your reception. Consider setting up a shady area with outdoor games and some drinks in an esky. Or a picnic area with rugs, cushions in the shade and some board games.