If you and your soon-to-be spouse love exploring the great outdoors, you may have decided that an outdoor wedding venue is right for you. However, choosing your venue can feel like an overwhelming task! Not only are there many to choose from but there are several important factors to consider.
As a wedding planner, I’ve helped dozens of couples make this choice. Ultimately, it comes down to nine considerations that have the potential to influence your budget and guest count. Once you’ve landed on a ballpark estimate for both, you’ll be ready to select the outdoor wedding venue of your dreams. Get the guide below!
What to Look For in an Outdoor Wedding Venue
Indoor Space
Your outdoor wedding venue must feature at least one indoor space you may use in the event of poor weather. Alternatively, you must have the option to rent a tent and pitch it on the grounds. However, note that doing so will significantly impact your budget. Renting a tent starts at CHF 10,000 and may exceed this amount, depending on your guest count.
It’s also important to love the indoor space at your venue just as much as the outdoor space! You don’t want to end up disappointed if it’s the only viable option on your wedding day. And, as your planner, I don’t want you to feel that way either! Let’s choose a venue you’re excited about inside and out so your day feels like you no matter what.
Flat Surfaces
There needs to be a flat surface large enough to set up your dining space and dance floor. Ideally, we’ll set these things up right on the grass. However, building a custom floor is the only way to create sufficient flat space in some cases. Note that if this is necessary, you’ll need to budget accordingly. The more you have to “DIY” a venue, the more budget hikes you can expect.
Attractive Green Space
In a similar vein, inspect the green space at prospective venues carefully. Building a floor will be necessary if the grass is sparse or discolored or the ground is full of holes from past events. Unfortunately, this is something I have observed at venues in the past. So, always do your research! The last thing you want is to spend more money than you bargained for creating an attractive outdoor wedding venue from scratch.
Appropriate Furniture
Renting outdoor-appropriate furniture is essential if you and your guests will dine on grass. Try choosing tables and chairs with sturdy legs that won’t sink into the soft ground! Likewise, advise your guests to leave their stiletto heels at home. Wedge heels and flats are best for navigating muddy or uneven terrain.
Catering-Friendly
Consult with your caterer regarding your venue. Ask them if the space where you plan to dine is close enough to the kitchen or if they would prefer you to shift the festivities closer. Alternatively, you can expand your budget to construct a “kitchen tent” next to the dining space. Whichever option you choose, this is an essential step to ensure your guests enjoy fresh food and fast service!
Moreover, hiring additional service staff may be necessary if you’re having a big wedding. Talk to your caterer early to ensure you budget enough for this all-important aspect of your day.
Indirect Sunlight
The sun’s positioning may seem like a random aspect of your venue, but indirect sunlight is crucial to ensure happy and lush floral arrangements. Try to set up your dining space in an area where direct sunlight is sparse. Your floral artist will thank you, and so will your photographer!
Venue Size
Do you plan to host your cocktail hour and dinner at the same venue? Then it needs to be large enough to accommodate both events. While your guests enjoy cocktail hour, your vendors need sufficient space to set up the dining area. Likewise, you want your guests to be able to mingle and snack without being distracted by all the work behind the scenes! Look for an outdoor wedding venue with at least two distinct areas partitioned by architecture or trees.
Rules Regarding Music
Many of our clients hosting outdoor weddings look forward to partying all night under the stars. However, this isn’t possible at every venue! Many have rules and regulations regarding how late the party may go on and when you must turn off your music. Your best bet is a private estate if you want to host a party without these limitations. Still, some venues have a more relaxed approach than others! If you don’t have access to a private estate, we will help you find the property that best suits your needs.
Access to Electricity
Access to sufficient electricity to power your catering tent, music, and lighting is crucial! If your ideal venue doesn’t have access on-site, you will need to rent a generator.
I hope these tips for finding the best outdoor wedding venue aid your search! If you have questions, our team would love to answer them. Send us your inquiries, and we’ll be in touch ASAP!
