Now you’re engaged, you can stop dreaming of your perfect outdoor wedding and actually make it a reality.

But organising a wedding out in the open requires a lot of thought and effort to ensure the celebrations live up to your expectations and the day runs smoothly.

With so much to think about, from location to catering and entertainment, it helps to have a clear plan of action to stop you forgetting anything essential. 

Here’s our comprehensive guide that breaks down exactly how to plan an outdoor wedding you’ll never forget.   

Guide on how to plan an outdoor wedding

1. Venue selection

First of all, you need to select your ideal wedding location. The venue must be able to accommodate the number of guests you expect to attend and offer enough space to set up a wedding marquee. It also must have:

• Accessible parking
• Toilet and handwashing facilities
• Even terrain and good drainage
• Power supply for lighting, air-con and speakers 
• Vehicle access for suppliers

You also need to consider the reception venue if you plan to hold it elsewhere, such as in your garden, to save money. The same accommodations need to be considered, such as a big enough area for a marquee and for your guests to roam comfortably.   

2. Plan for all weather conditions

Regardless of whether you’re getting married in the spring, summer or autumn, our best advice is to plan for the worst weather. That way, you can enjoy it if it’s perfect, and be prepared if you’re caught in the rain. Consider:

• A high-quality marquee for cover in the sun or rain, and for the evening meal 
• Suitable flooring to prevent heels from sinking, damp flooring and slips
• Covered walkways from the marquee to the entrance   
• An umbrella station to help keep the party area obstacle-free and dry
• Patio heaters to maintain a comfortable temperature 

You could also care for your guests by supplying fluffy blankets for nippy evenings, sunglasses and hand fans if it’s hot and sunny, or umbrellas and waterproof ponchos if it’s raining. Those wearing heels will also thank you for flip-flops for later on!

3. Decor and styling

Setting the scene and bringing your dream wedding to life will likely be the most enjoyable part of the planning process, but you’ll need to consider practicality as well as aesthetics.

Lighting  

Ambient lighting is key to creating a soft and serene wedding atmosphere. Consider fairy lights, lanterns and floating candles to create a warm and magical ambience, as well as outdoor path lighting to help guests safely see their surroundings at night. 

Decorations

Rustic decor is perfect for outdoor weddings, as it beautifully complements the natural surroundings. Think linen sheets, wooden signage, seasonal flowers and draped fabric linings.  

You can also enhance the setting that’s already around you – for example, you could hang string lights from tree branches to create a romantic atmosphere, or introduce a floral arch for guests to take photos under.   

4. Catering and atmosphere

Last but certainly not least, if you want to throw a truly memorable wedding marquee celebration that keeps your guests happy throughout the day and night, you’ll need to deliver stellar food and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

Catering and bar service – Treat your guests to an unforgettable rustic feast, nibbles, canapes and drinks throughout the night by hiring a professional caterer and bar service.

DJ or live music – People love to dance the night away at weddings, so you need to make sure you organise the right music for a party atmosphere. For outdoor weddings, it’s also best to consider a powerful sound system that can be heard across open spaces.

Dance floor – A wedding isn’t complete without a platform for the happy couple’s first dance.

Lawn games – Perfect for little ones and adults alike, why not hire a giant Jenga, Connect 4 or Skittles game for outdoor entertainment? 

Book your outdoor wedding marquee today 

Planning your dream wedding celebration is a magical time in the run-up to the big day. 

Booking your wedding marquee for hire as early as possible will help ensure you secure the tent style and size you want for your special day and avoid disappointment.

To discover more about booking a marquee for a wedding, get in touch with Mahood Marquees’ expert team today.