Couples in the UK have the COVID-19 pandemic to thank for their outdoor wedding. Indeed, outdoor weddings were introduced during the pandemic in an effort to reduce risks of contamination. At the time, the law focused on the party element of the wedding. But as of summer 2022, outdoor weddings in England and Wales are legally binding as long as the ceremonies are held by someone with a civil ceremony licence.
Scottish couples were always privileged in this area because outdoor marriages have always been legal in Scotland as long as the local council registrar is informed about your intention and you can provide all the necessary documentation. As long as you have a humanist celebrant who’s registered, you can celebrate anywhere in Scotland, and that means also in the wildest outside landscapes of your choice — as long as you get permission to use the grounds.
However, if you are going to host your wedding outside, you need to prepare meticulously to ensure that everything goes according to plan.
#1. Contingency plan for weather
The main issue with getting married outside is that you can’t control the weather. So, due to the unpredictability of the weather, you want to have a plan B too.
Typically, this can include choosing a venue that can provide both indoor and outdoor accommodation so that your party can relocate inside in the event of rain, strong wind, or even snow! This will keep your guests safe, dry and comfortable at all times.
Alternatively, you can also rent out heated marquees to keep everyone dry if you have no access to a building.
#2. Weather-relevant protection
Beyond having a roof and barriers against the wind, you also want to consider the potential discomfort of being outside. So, it is important to think about the well-being of your guests, and especially how you can make their outfits more weatherproof.
For instance, you can have baskets filled with individual blankets for guests to wear around their shoulders towards the end of the day. For summer weddings, why not offer mini packs of sunscreen lotion to all your guests?
#3. Entertainment for all ages
Ensure that guests of all ages have a fantastic time, and this can be tricky with outdoor weddings. Some of the favourites here are colouring books with crayons for younger guests and a selection of board games for older guests. These may seem unnecessary but they can be fantastic icebreakers that will keep your guests chatting and mingling for hours.
It may also be a good idea to consider vapes too, as you can buy vapes bulk and display them readily too. This will not only limit the risks of cigarette and ash debris outdoors but also avoid tobacco smells on fancy outfits!
#4. Bring photobooths and props
Most people like taking photos at a wedding, but guests may feel self-conscious about wanting to capture special moments. So, placing a photobooth with some fun props can encourage them to unleash their creativity and document the day.
#5. Play and rest area for dogs
If your outdoor wedding welcomes pets, you will need to design a small area for dogs to rest, play, and relax away from the noise and crowd of the party.
Hopefully, these few ideas can help you improve your outdoor wedding plan and have a day you will never forget.
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