Selecting Outdoor Wedding Locations

How to Select a Venue for Outdoor Weddings

With all the spectacular views of the ocean waves, crisp blue sky or well-maintained gardens, outdoor weddings can be more exciting and fun. College campuses, beaches, parks, conservatories and botanical gardens are popular venues for outdoor weddings. You can choose from among these popular venues or you can either say your “I do” at a zoo, a barn, a stadium, a poolside or even in your own backyard for a more unique setting. Although outdoor Orange County wedding venues can be quite appealing and interesting, you need to consider several factors before choosing an ideal location to make the most out of it.

Weather

Nothing spoils an outdoor affair than a sudden scud of rain or scorching heat. Be prepared for this. You want your guests to feel as comfortable as possible and to keep your food away from direct sunlight, so it is wise to choose a venue with a covered area, shade or trees. You can also set up a large tent to provide shade for everyone at the wedding. Also, inquire the wedding coordinator if large fans are available. Select an outdoor venue that can offer an indoor function room if it suddenly rains or snows.

Proximity

Outdoor locations are not free from the noise outside. Would you love the idea of saying your “I do” amidst the sound of honking horns? Check the area if it is near a busy street or if the background noise is minimal. Outdoor wedding venues in Orange County usually have wide spaces that at times you have to speak louder to be heard. Make sure everyone is able to hear what you are saying during the ceremony and throughout your wedding. If the area is large enough that you will have to use a microphone to be heard, ask the coordinator of the venue if they can provide media equipment for the celebration.

Path

Be very particular about the path you and your guests will be treading. Your safety and your guests’ safety should be one of your priorities when selecting an outdoor location. The ground should not be wet or slippery so that everyone can walk comfortably. Check if the aisle is flat and even so that you will feel at ease and walk freely.

Character

Pick a wedding location that has its own unique character. Choose a place that suits your taste and style. Try to select a site that is naturally beautiful, so you do not need to prepare a lot when it comes to decorating it. When you feel certain Orange County wedding venues still need some additional embellishments, think about the cost and your effort of adding in some more flowers and decorations.

Surroundings

Try to see if the area is immaculately clean. Are the lawns well mowed? If you prefer a garden wedding, check very carefully if the location has well-maintained gardens and free from some annoying pests, black flies, or mosquitoes. You definitely won’t like the idea of being followed by bees as you walk down the aisle.