Living in Las Vegas, there’s a good chance that some or all of your wedding will occur outside. Although having an outdoor wedding is certainly a picturesque and memorable way to say your “I dos,” without the proper preparation there are numerous things that can make your big day not so blissful. So, to help ensure your alfresco wedding goes off without a hitch, here are six tips to keep in mind:
1) Timing & Location
Although summer is an ideal season for weddings, the Las Vegas heat is brutal! If you really want a summer Vegas wedding, consider late May or early September. Also if possible, try to schedule your ceremony later in the day — an evening wedding will bring sweet relief on those hot summer days.
Likewise, if available at your wedding location, try to have your ceremony and/or reception in a shady area, like in a bank of trees or in the shadow of a building. If natural shade isn’t an option, consider renting a tent big enough for everyone to sit beneath.
2) Have a Backup Plan
Above all, be sure to have a contingency plan in case bad weather arises. Ask your venue if they have a last-minute indoor ceremony option available, or at the very least, rent a tent to protect guests from rain. Even if you don’t end up using it, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
3) Make Your Guests Comfortable
With plenty of notice, be sure to inform your guests that you are having an outdoor wedding and if you have any particular dress code so they can plan accordingly.
Then, keep in mind what the weather will be like the day of your wedding and make sure you provide amenities to keep your guests comfortable. For summer weddings, consider setting up a hydration station with ice-cold bottled water, lemonade and/or iced tea. And, don’t forget that Las Vegas sun! A great gesture for your guests is to provide sunscreen, sunglasses as a wedding favor, and even set up electric fans to help keep them cool. If your outdoor wedding is during the colder months, don’t forget those portable heaters or possibly fire pits!
Although we don’t have an excessive bug problem in Las Vegas, also consider setting up a few citronella tiki torches around your ceremony site and keep a few bottles of insect repellent on hand just in case.
4) Plan for Wind
Let’s face it, Las Vegas is windy! Try to avoid lighter fabrics, such as chiffons and china silks in your dress and the bridesmaid dresses. Also, be sure to inform your hairstylist that you’ll be having an outdoor wedding so they can plan a style that can hold up in the wind. And, be mindful with your wedding décor — you don’t want those beautiful paper lanterns flying away into the night.
5) Plan Your Menu Appropriately
When selecting your caterer, make sure that they are experienced with catering for an outdoor wedding. For a summer wedding, be certain they are providing menu items that will keep well outdoors in the sun and heat. Also, try to avoid having too many hot dishes as well as mayonnaise-based salads or dishes, which must be served cold.
6) Sound Check
Having an outdoor wedding is beautiful, but often times you won’t be able to predict any unwanted sounds or distractions. Make sure you look into renting a sound system with clip-on microphones for the bride, groom and officiant, which your DJ or band may be able to arrange. At your rehearsal, be certain to test the sound system to ensure everyone will be able to hear you exchange your vows regardless of where they are sitting.
For more wedding planning tips and information, please visit http://www.bridalspectacular.com. Also, be sure to save-the-date to attend our Autumn Bridal Show August 16 and 17 at Cashman Center!
Receive $5 off admission when you buy tickets online! Click here and enter promo code: AugBlog2013