Outdoor weddings are more popular than ever, and the wedding world doesn't anticipate this changing any time soon! If you're opting for that beautiful, eccentric outdoor wedding, all that manifestation will only get you so far if Mother Nature has something to say about it, babe. So, while the appeal of an outdoor wedding is enchanting, are you prepared if Mother Nature puts a damper on things?
Let's start with the ultimate wedding day fear; rain. Checking 3 different weather apps every day months before your event, isn't going to change anything, and it's not going to make you any more prepared if there ends up being poor weather! Tents are the first obvious solution for being prepared for rain, but they are costly. Many people ask if they are worth the cost, and I answer that question, with a question; is your wedding day worth the cost? It's truly not about whether or not the tent is worth it, it's if you're willing to accept being unprepared. Clear tents are becoming more and more popular, as they offer you the protection and peace of mind you need on your wedding day, yet they don't compromise the beauty and elegance of your outdoor space. While tents are going to protect you from any rain the day-of, consider what you may need if it rains days before your event. The ground has a likelihood of being damp or muddy still. Have you considered a lifted foundation for your tent or flooring? Many of your girlfriends are likely wearing some sort of heel, as well as yourself and no one wants to be sinking into the ground! If full flooring is out of your budget, consider partial flooring for your dance floor! Your tent may very well have to be your back-up location for your ceremony as well. If that is the case, consider renting a tent a size or two larger than you need, so you have more room to accommodate for a ceremony, without having to flip the entire space! When configuring floor plan, create a separate floor plan that incorporates a ceremony space as well so you're prepared in advance! Lastly, order clear umbrellas for you and your guests! Not only do they offer some additional protection for your guests and wedding party, but they make for some insanely adorable photos as well! Like hello, have you looked up "rainy wedding photos" on Pinterest?
Rain, rain go away. Bring on the heat, baby! While things might get hot and sweaty between the sheets the night of your wedding, no one wants to be hot and sweaty sitting outside for a 30-minute ceremony! Paper fans and parasols are super cute way to help keep your guests cool! Plus, they can take them home as a bonus gift for sitting through some intense heat! Not convinced from the "rainy wedding photos"? Check out "parasol wedding photos" on Pinterest and thank me later, babe! Don't forget to have plenty of refreshing cocktails available for your guests as well! Let's be real, no one is coming to your wedding to drink water, babe! While we're on the topic of drinks, don't forget about the food! Keep your stationary hors d'oeuvres out of the hot sun! Sweaty cheese? No thanks.
All I want for Christmas, is for you to provide blankets for your outdoor, winter ceremony. Maybe some hotty toddys, too. Seriously though, as much as it's your day, don't make your guests freeze outside! Yes, it's an added expense, but it's one your guests are going to very much appreciate. You don't need one for every single guest, but try to get enough for about half your guest count if it's in your budget. So, open the Amazon app that I know you have on your phone, and add some fleece throw blankets to your cart! If your venue or outdoor location allows for electric space heaters and fire pits, add that to your weatherproofing checklist! Last but not least, add a basket of hand warmers for your guests to grab as they arrive, or add them to your welcome gift bags! These thoughtful touches will go a long way!
Now that I've shared the goldmine of weatherproofing hacks, I want to remind you that no matter what the weather may be on your wedding day, you're marrying the person you love, and that's the most important thing! Plus, who said you can only wear your wedding dress once? If all else fails, and your day gets totally ruined by weather, book a photo sesh with your photographer, get all glammed up again, put that beautiful dress on, and go take some epic photos!
XO,
Rachel Vitagliano