Natural light, ocean breeze, incomparable views… The long list of reasons to host your ceremony outdoors is limitless. However, as with any outdoor wedding, there is also a list of “I Do’s” and “Definitely Do Not’s” to stick to when planning an outdoor ceremony ! With the beautiful Ocean Terrace at Seabrook Island Resort, we host more than our share of outdoor weddings. Here are our tried and true tips for ensuring that your ceremony goes off without a hitch!
Do: Have a back up plan. This one is a given. When it comes to outdoor weddings, every good Plan A comes with a Plan B, and your outdoor wedding is no exception. Make sure that your venue can move your ceremony indoors if rain is on the forecast or spring for a tent (clear ones are available that keep views unobstructed!) Many tent rental companies also allow you to put a small deposit down on a tent so that you can use it only if it proves to be necessary. Speak to your venue to see if they have any similar arrangements with tent rental proprietors.
Don’t: Skimp on the photographer. Be sure to hire a professional that is comfortable with and who is prepared for multiple lighting situations. Ask to see their portfolio and look for good photos indoors and out. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their work and if they have shot an outdoor wedding similar to yours.
Do: Get all necessary permits for state parks and other municipal areas. Some outdoor wedding sites may be public, but still require reservations and proper permitting for guests and events.
Don’t: Forget to think about the time of day. Visit your ceremony site at the time you plan to have your own ceremony begin. Take into consideration where the sun is so guests won’t be blinded as they try to watch you say your I Do’s!
Do: Make sure your guests are comfortable. Bottled water, fans and a little shade can go a long way for an outdoor ceremony, especially in the South and during those toasty summer months.
Don’t: Get upset about things outside of your control. Bad Weather? Out of your hands. Stray airplane? Unless you have some way to guarantee restricted airspace, not in your control. The most important thing about your outdoor wedding day is that you enjoy it no matter what and that means letting things roll off your back and become a special part of what makes your wedding day yours.