Imagine reciting your vows with a chorus of birds singing in the distance and the ocean lapping at the shoreline behind you.
It sounds beautiful unless the birds are seagulls and their incessant squabbling is drowning out your vows. The ocean couldn’t be a more perfect backdrop until half-nude people are showing up in the background of all your photos.
Outdoor weddings are becoming very popular for many reasons, but are they worth it? You must weigh the pros and cons of an outdoor wedding reception or ceremony before booking. Keep reading to learn more.
Pro: Beautiful Scenery
One of the best benefits of an outdoor wedding reception is the picturesque scenery. There isn’t anything more magical than saying “I do” with a mountain range or ocean as a backdrop.
Plus, outdoor weddings are naturally beautiful so you won’t need to spend as much money on decor.
Con: Bugs
You will need to be ready to contend with mother nature’s pests when your wedding is outside.
Mosquitoes and wasps could wreak havoc on your guests. Not only do bug stings hurt and itch, but they won’t look so great in your professional photos either.
Not to mention that bug spray isn’t the most romantic scent.
Pro: Package Options
Many outdoor wedding venues have areas for both your ceremony and reception. This is great as it eliminates the need for your guests to travel from venue to venue. It also saves you money as you won’t need to hire expensive wedding day transportation.
You can even find all inclusive wedding venues that provide decor, linens, DJ, and meals.
Con: Backup Plan Necessary
One big thing to think about if your wedding reception venue is outdoors is what will happen if the weather doesn’t cooperate. You need a backup plan in case the forecast calls for rain or storms on your big day.
You don’t need an entirely new venue, though. Your backup plan could be something as simple as a waterproof tent. The tent can be set up in the area you already have booked for the wedding.
Pro: Space
Most wedding venues have capacity limits. These rules aren’t just to annoy the bride and groom, but for safety reasons. Too many people in a space too small to contain them would be dangerous in the event of fire or emergency.
When you hold your wedding outdoors, there’s no limit to how many people you can invite.
Con: Lack of Facilities
One of the biggest drawbacks to an outdoor wedding venue is the lack of bathroom facilities. Some of the more public venues like city parks should have bathrooms, but more rural areas will not.
You’ll need to rent facilities and have them delivered to your venue site. The average porta potty rental could cost as low as $900 or as high as $3,000 for more luxury options.
Should You Have an Outdoor Wedding Reception?
The decision is up to you and your soon-to-be spouse. An outdoor wedding reception can be beautiful, but it can also be a headache. Weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine if it’s right for you and your party guests. Keep browsing our blogs for more great party tips.
