Like many couples, you want your wedding day to go off without a hitch. However, if you are planning an outdoor wedding, there are numerous things that could go wrong. Here are some of the most common outdoor wedding mishaps and ways to plan for these emergencies so that they don’t ruin your special day. So, let’s cover some of the most common things that could go wrong when you have an outdoor wedding – and how to overcome them.
Unexpected Weather
No matter where you live, the weather can be unpredictable. By preparing for bad weather conditions ahead of time, you can avoid a wedding disaster. If you are planning a destination wedding, then consider the season before settling on a wedding date and venue. For example, if you are planning a wedding on the Mexican peninsula, then know that you may experience more rain during the off season between August and October.
Regardless of where or when you are exchanging vows, you should still do what you can to prepare for inclement weather. If you are renting an outdoor space, check to see if they have a shelter available if the weather goes awry. Have tents available just in case it rains. Book an indoor venue so that you have a backup plan if the weather conditions make it impossible to have a wedding outdoors.
And in the PNW – things can be that much more unpredictable! I’ve photographed weddings around here 12 months a year, and in January when you expect 30 degrees and snow/rain mix… I’ve seen 50 degrees and sunny. In August when you expect 90 degrees, I’ve seen 65 and raining.
Plan for the worst, hope for the best. And love every minute of it no matter what you get! I’ve photographed in nearly every type of crazy weather condition that you can think of.
Waste Management Emergency
If you are planning on having a backyard wedding, your sewer or septic tank will be getting a lot of use. Even a luxury cabin or an expensive outdoor venue can have a waste management emergency. You can prevent overflowing or backing up by getting portable toilets. According to Russell Reid Waste Management, a large number of guests can put a surprising amount of stress on your septic system. This is why it’s important that you have extra toilets for them to use. Don’t underestimate how much use a sewer or septic tank will get, or you may end up with an awful situation.
Mud and Dirt
Outdoor weddings aren’t known to be clean. Don’t wear anything that you don’t want to get dirty. You may want to consider wearing something nice for the actual ceremony, but you should change into an outfit that can withstand some dirt or even mud. Or, as Heili Bridal suggests, you might consider bustling up the train so it doesn’t get dirty during the reception. You don’t want to ruin a dress or pair of shoes that cost thousands of dollars just because you didn’t plan accordingly.
Bugs
When you are outdoors, bugs are to be expected. Just because it’s your wedding day it doesn’t mean that the bugs will stay away. Before your big day, try to have the outdoor venue sprayed. You can also use fans to keep bugs at bay. The constant airflow will keep these little buggers from sticking around.
There are all sorts of things that can ruin your outdoor wedding. But by preparing for some of the common mishaps mentioned above, you can avoid emergencies. There are all sorts of risks associated with having an outdoor wedding, but you can keep minor issues from ruining your big day.
