How to plan the perfect outdoor wedding ceremony
An outdoor wedding is the dream for many couples. Yet in the UK, this can come with pitfalls because of the weather.
Choosing an outdoor wedding venue with the knowledge and experience to tie the knot al fresco is key to overcoming the many associated weather hurdles.
In this guide, we explore:
How to plan an outdoor wedding ceremony that makes the most of your location
What contingency plans might look like for a wedding outdoors
Why an outside wedding ceremony in the UK doesn’t have to be a risky affair
Why choose an outdoor wedding ceremony?
Outdoor weddings offer a relaxed, natural setting that feels quite different to indoors. There are many places to have a wedding outside, from manor grounds and gardens to open parkland, and each brings its own character to your big day.
Here are 5 reasons why some couples prefer to hold their nuptials outside:
Outdoor weddings can be more informal and relaxed
The light, space and surroundings are great for wedding photographs
Nature lovers enjoy celebrating their big day in a natural setting
Outdoor is more spacious; ceremonies can be larger and more flexible
Outdoor settings can create a memorable and atmospheric ceremony
Related reading: If you're still weighing up wedding ceremony venue ideas, our guide on how to begin planning a wedding walks through the ceremony types worth considering first.
Essential weather planning and contingencies for a wedding outside
If getting married outside is your number one priority, set a wedding date between May and September for the best chance of success.
A beautiful outdoor wedding starts with thoughtful planning and practical contingencies. Make sure you've covered these essentials:
A backup setting
Most outdoor wedding venues have a backup option and are experienced in making the call the morning of the wedding day, if needed. This could be a marquee in the grounds, planned for the reception but available for the ceremony if needed. Venus with indoor space may offer a ceremony room in case of bad weather.
Contingency gear
In case of unexpected cold or wet weather, provide essential items such as wellies, umbrellas, blankets and hats for an outside wedding ceremony. This ensures the comfort of the whole wedding party and attendees.
Clear communication
Agree on a clear wet-weather plan with your wedding coordinator. Decide when the final call will be made, who makes it and what happens if the ceremony needs to move indoors. Keep all relevant suppliers informed so they have time to make any last-minute changes.
Flexible décor
Flexible wedding décor that can be used outdoors or indoors is a good idea. Consider free-standing floral displays, sturdy props and decorations that can be securely fixed and withstand a little wind or rain, so your styling stays looking its best whatever the weather.
Top tip: May and September can be cooler but are usually more affordable for couples planning a wedding on a budget.
Timing your ceremony for light and comfort
Between May and September, mid-afternoon is often the ideal time for an outdoor wedding ceremony. This can help you make the most of:
Softer light. The sun is lower than at midday, creating more flattering conditions for wedding photographs.
More comfortable temperatures. You can avoid the strongest midday sun, helping guests stay comfortable on warmer days.
Longer celebrations outdoors. There are still plenty of daylight hours left for drinks, photographs and celebrations after the ceremony.
Layout and guest comfort considerations
A successful outdoor wedding is about getting the practical details right, from the ceremony setting and catering to guest comfort and wet-weather plans. Here’s what to consider:
Seasonal considerations for UK outdoor weddings
In the UK, the weather is famously temperamental. Generally, spring brings wetter ground, summer stronger sun, autumn shorter daylight hours and winter colder temperatures. Here’s how to plan an outdoor wedding around each season:
Spring weddings
In spring, plan for the ground conditions as carefully as the temperature. Your ceremony area needs to drain well after rain, and your guests should be able to reach it without crossing wet grass or mud. Consider a temporary walkway or alternative ceremony spot if needed.
Summer weddings
For a summer wedding, check where the sun will actually fall across your ceremony space at the time you plan to marry. A beautiful spot at 10am might be in full, unshaded sun by 3pm. Plan a site visit at roughly the same time of day as your ceremony beforehand and plan your seating, shade and ceremony orientation accordingly.
Autumn weddings
Temperatures are lower, and daylight disappears faster for an Autumn wedding. Work backwards from sunset when planning your wedding ceremony and photographs, and think about lighting for paths, outdoor seating and the journey between different parts of the venue once dusk falls.
Winter weddings
An outdoor winter wedding doesn't have to mean asking everyone to brave the cold. Marquees and semi-covered structures can be fitted with temporary event heating, which creates a warm base while retaining the outdoor setting. Structures with removable sides give you the option of opening up the space for the ceremony and enclosing it as temperatures fall.
Worth knowing: Plan for extra warmth for a wedding, whatever the season. Even after a warm day, UK temperatures can drop noticeably once the sun goes down. If guests will be outside into the evening, consider event heating for covered spaces, sheltered seating areas or blankets as a simple backup.
Plan your outdoor wedding at Springbank Manor
If you’re looking for perfect places to have a wedding outside, Springbank Manor fits the bill. Sprawling across six lush, green acres with the rolling Pendle hills just beyond, our beautiful wedding venue in Lancashire gives the most stunning backdrop for a wedding in garden surroundings.
As a popular outdoor wedding venue, we know a thing or two about getting married outside. Our outdoor weddings come with a bespoke contingency plan, and every couple gets a dedicated wedding coordinator. Our friendly, flexible approach to your special day, with clear communication and planning, sets us apart.
Get in touch with our experienced team to discuss your outdoor wedding plans, and we’ll ensure a stress-free wedding planning journey from start to finish.
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