Planning an Outdoor Wedding in The UK: Tips for Couples

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ALL ABOUT Jon

I'm Jon: tea-lover, husband, father, photographer, writer, book-worm, teacher, cricket-watcher, Peak-District explorer. Not necessarily in that order!
I cover weddings all over the UK (and occasionally abroad) and tell the story of each day - moment by moment.

I'm Jon

Outdoor wedding at Callow hall in Ashbourne Derbyshire

Fancy tying the knot under the open sky, surrounded by nature’s beauty? An outdoor wedding ceremony is a truly delightful and romantic way to say “I do” and celebrate your love. And let’s face it – with the UK’s stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, who wouldn’t want to get hitched outdoors? If you’re a couple based in Derby or Derbyshire pondering the idea of an outdoor wedding, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll share some top tips to help you plan a fabulous open-air ceremony – because who needs a roof when you’ve got love, right?

Choose the Right Outdoor Wedding Venue

Finding the ideal venue for your outdoor wedding ceremony is undoubtedly a top priority. Here in the UK, we’re blessed with an abundance of picturesque outdoor venues, encompassing parks, gardens, beaches, and more. When you’re on the hunt for that perfect location, keep in mind factors like the size of the space, the type of landscape, and the availability of essential facilities such as restrooms and parking. And let’s not forget our famously unpredictable British weather – always check the local weather patterns and ensure your chosen venue has a solid backup plan in place, just in case the heavens decide to bless your big day with a surprise shower! For a great list of outdoor wedding venues, check out this resource at Hitched.co.uk: Outdoor Wedding Venues.

Plan for the Weather – All of the Weather!

Speaking of the weather, as we all know, the UK is notorious for its unpredictability, making it crucial to have a backup plan for your outdoor wedding ceremony. Contemplate renting a tent or canopy to offer some respite from blazing sunshine or unexpected showers. Moreover, ensure you have an ample supply of umbrellas, fans, and other handy items at the ready to help keep your guests comfortable, come rain or shine.

Choose the Right Decorations

Ah, the great outdoors – who wouldn’t want the freedom to personalise their wedding space just the way they like? When planning your decorations, it’s worth considering the type of landscape and the overall style of your wedding. Why not choose decorations that complement the natural surroundings, such as flower arrangements, garlands, and fairy lights? After all, there’s nothing quite like adding a touch of sparkle to create a magical atmosphere on your big day! For some stunning outdoor wedding decoration ideas, check out this inspiring article from Wedding Ideas Magazine: Outdoor Wedding Decor Ideas.

Outdoor wedding at Cuttlebrook Farm in Derby

Hire the Right Suppliers

Planning an outdoor wedding ceremony is no walk in the park – but with the right vendors on your side, you’ll be able to create a seamless and stress-free experience! Enlist the help of a trusty wedding planner to coordinate all those nitty-gritty details, and hire a top-notch caterer to wine and dine your guests. And let’s not forget about the ever-important wedding photographer to immortalise the memories of your special day. After all, who doesn’t want to look back on their stunning outdoor ceremony with a beaming smile?

Consider the Timing of Your Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

Timing is everything when it comes to planning your outdoor wedding ceremony – after all, you want to make sure the mood and atmosphere are just right. Think about the time of year, local weather patterns, and the surrounding landscape when picking the perfect moment to say “I do.” If you’re tying the knot in the summer, try to avoid having your ceremony between 11:30am and 1:00pm, when the sunlight will be harshest and the temperature highest. For spring or autumn nuptials, a mid-morning or early afternoon ceremony could be ideal, allowing you to bask in that dreamy, diffused light. So, what time will your love story unfold?

Plan for Entertainment

Entertainment can truly make or break a wedding ceremony, and when it comes to outdoor weddings, you’ve got to keep the good times rolling! Obviously, you’ll probably be hiring a DJ or live band to set the perfect soundtrack for your ceremony and reception. But don’t stop there – consider incorporating other forms of entertainment to delight your guests all day long. From lawn games and photobooths to dazzling fireworks displays, there’s no shortage of ways to keep everyone entertained and engaged. After all, who doesn’t love a bit of fun in the great outdoors?

Whatton House Tipi outdoor Wedding — Lawn games at Whatton House

In conclusion, planning an outdoor wedding ceremony in Derby and Derbyshire can be a truly magical and unforgettable experience. By carefully selecting the perfect venue, preparing for the unpredictable British weather, creating a stunning ceremony setup, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on the day, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the outdoor wedding of your dreams. Just remember, amidst all the planning, to soak in the beauty and charm of your special day.

If you’re looking for an expert photographer to capture every magical moment of your outdoor wedding ceremony, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me. I’d be thrilled to discuss how I can help you immortalise the love, laughter, and beauty of your unique celebration.