Outdoor ceremonies are totally in right now, and it’s no surprise why—they offer the perfect blend of nature and romance. But hey, before you dive headfirst into the great outdoors, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make your ceremony rock. Lucky for you, I’ve got 5 tips for planning your outdoor ceremony that’ll help you plan the ultimate outdoor celebration. Get ready to slay those wedding photos and have a blast with your squad!
1. Time of day
Timing Is Everything, Seriously! Alright, let’s talk timing. If you’re tying the knot in Australia, you gotta consider daylight savings time or non-daylight savings time. Plus, which season are you getting hitched in? Trust me, you don’t want your guests melting or squinting like crazy. For a summer wedding during daylight savings time, aim for a ceremony after 2 pm. Think about shade, shadows, and where that golden sunlight will be hitting. If you’re in non-daylight savings time, keep it close to 2 pm to make the most of the daylight. And hey, ask your venue for some inspo from previous ceremonies—they’ve got the intel!
2. Seeking Shade & Dodging Shadows
When thinking about the time you are wanting to say the “I do’s” you need to think about the exact location you will be standing. Go to this location at the time you are thinking and stand where you will be standing and look around. Are you under a tree with spotted lighting? Is the shade the tree is going to be providing covering you both or just one of you? Are your guests in the shade also? The big thing with shade is to make sure it’s even. You don’t want yourself to be in the shade and your spouse to be in full sun!
3. Wet weather backup plan
Make sure to put some extra thought into the S*** what happens if it rains scenario. If it’s just a slight drizzle do you have umbrellas for you and your guests? If it’s not just an umbrella situation and more is needed, have you sorted out the wet weather option? No outdoor ceremony should’ve not taken into consideration a wet weather plan. The first question to ask is. Does your venue have a wet weather backup plan? If yes then this is great you’re sorted. If no then you need to think about hiring a wet weather option. And here’s a tip: if rain’s in the forecast, make the call early. Your stylist, florist, and planner need time to work their magic!
4. Seating for your outdoor ceremony
The More, the Merrier! Here’s the deal: everyone needs a seat. I mean, why would you want unbalanced photos? Plus, let’s be real, your guests don’t wanna stand the whole time. Uneven ground, sinking heels, and trying to avoid the photographer’s shots—it’s a lot to handle. So, get enough seats for everyone, and watch the good vibes flow!
These two images above show the ceremony on the left at Bendooley Estate with everyone sitting. The one on the right is a ceremony at Bawley Vale Estate with some standing and some sitting.
5. The wind
Battling the Wind Monster Windy days can be a real buzzkill, but fear not, my friend. First, consider an updo for your hair or switch up the sides you’re standing on. If you’re rocking a veil, ask a bridesmaid or family member to help you out by removing it. A little pause won’t hurt anyone! Oh, and choosing a slightly more sheltered spot for your ceremony can save you from windy woes.
Enjoy the ride lovebirds
Remember, this day is all about you and your boo. It’s not about the weather, the decorations, or anything else—it’s about your love story. So soak it all in, have a blast, and celebrate with your crew. And hey, if you need a kickass photographer (hint: it’s me!), hit me up. Let’s chat and make your ceremony unforgettable!
These are just a few tips to get you started on planning your dream outdoor ceremony. Trust me, there’s more where that came from, but for now, go forth and slay that outdoor wedding game! Let me know if these 5 tips for planning your outdoor ceremony were helpful!
Weddings showcased in the photos above check out their full galleries.
Bendooley Estate Wedding
Bawley Vale Estate Wedding
The Barn on the Ridge Wedding
Leave a comment