Weddings are undeniably exciting occasions, bringing friends and family together to celebrate a promising new union. Many people choose to have their ceremonies outside with picturesque, natural surroundings serving as the backdrop for their vows. However, there are some key points that you won’t want to miss when planning your outdoor wedding! Refer to these four important details to make sure your big day is set up for success.

Plan Menus Carefully

You’re probably already familiar with the need to plan for all dietary specifications that come with your guest list, from food allergies and sensitivities to religious restrictions and lifestyle choices. However, when planning for an outdoor wedding, you’ll need to keep temperatures in mind as well! If you’re having your ceremony and reception on a warm day, then you should avoid serving foods that melt easily, such as soft cheeses and spreads. You might even want to consider a fondant-covered wedding cake instead of buttercream frosting.

Check the Weather

Speaking of warm temperatures, be sure to check the weather diligently while you plan your outdoor wedding. Generally speaking, you should always have a backup plan in case you get rained out. Even if you have canopies to keep people from getting rained on, the weather affects other factors as well. Some furniture doesn't respond well to high humidity or rain. Additionally, strong winds can make a mess of your decorations if they aren’t firmly attached. Be thoroughly prepared ahead of time with durable materials and a backup venue.

Proper Facilities

No matter how concise your ceremony is, nature is bound to call before the wedding and reception are complete. Since you want your guests to be comfortable while they celebrate with you, it’s imperative that you provide easily accessible facilities. When you secure a nearby backup venue in case of bad weather, having convenient bathrooms should be a determining factor in which location you choose. If you can’t find a desirable place with indoor facilities or have chosen a more remote location, then rent a portable toilet or two.

Plan Around Natural Lighting

Lighting is a huge factor in how your wedding will look and feel, and it can be a bit of a wild card if you’re tying the knot outdoors. In order to create the ideal atmosphere and set up perfect photo ops regardless of any curveballs, have a wide variety of lighting on hand. Planning your ceremony later in the afternoon will give your wedding photographer the opportunity to get some truly stunning shots and making sure everything is well-lit will set them up for success even if the weather goes awry.

Outdoor weddings can be downright gorgeous, but they do require you to plan around the unpredictability of nature. That means selecting food, decorations, and furniture that will hold up well in outdoor humidity and heat, as well as having a backup plan in case of bad weather.

 Additionally, don’t forget to consider things like easily accessible facilities and adaptable photo lighting so that you and your guests are prepared to enjoy the event no matter what.