There’s nothing I love more than being outside in gorgeous natural light taking photos! So I think it goes without saying I love when couples choose to host their wedding outside!! It can make for some truly stunning photos, but there are some things you have to watch out for to achieve those photos. Here’s a look at what to pay attention to as you plan your wedding day outdoors!

1. Not Having A Plan B

No couple truly wants rain on their wedding day. It’s stressful, no matter how brave a face you put on in the moment! I can’t tell you the number of venues I’ve worked at where the ceremony is outside and there’s not a plan B in sight in case the weather doesn’t cooperate. The ceremony is set up and then everyone hopes and wishes the weather stays away because there’s nowhere else to set up the ceremony and keep people dry. And if you know Indiana weather, that’s one big risk to take!

Now am I saying don’t do your ceremony outside? Absolutely not, I prefer it! But when doing your tours, make sure to ask the venue what their backup plan is for any outdoor event in case of rain. I think this is the most important question to ask a venue after do you have our date open!! If they can’t show or explain to you there’s an option in case you need it, that’s a big red flag!

2. Ceremony Time

Not every venue is the same and I know that each has its own rules around venue access and the time you can rent the space. But your ceremony time is everything to achieving gorgeous photos! Avoid choosing a time in the middle of the afternoon for your ceremony, especially in the summer. The sun is out in full force and it will be hot and very bright. This is the least flattering light for photos! On the other end, you don’t want to plan the ceremony too late or you risk running out of time after the ceremony to do your photos. This is REALLY important if you’ve decided to skip a First Look and stick with tradition!!

If you have the flexibility to choose your ceremony time, work with your photographer to find a time that works with the scheduled sunset time on your day (a quick Google search will tell you what that is!) and the flow of photos you need to be captured before and after the ceremony.

3. Help Your Guests Prepare

Not many couples these days go without creating a wedding website to share all the details of their big day with family and friends. Don’t assume everyone is paying as close attention to the details of your wedding as you are, make sure you’re preparing them for the day! Adding a note to your wedding website or a card in your invitations letting them know they need to bring items like sunglasses or jackets/wraps goes a long way to keeping everyone comfortable.

4. Food Prep

Elaborate food and dessert stations are wonderful, just make sure you’re planning for how the weather will affect them! The last thing you want is the buttercream frosting on your cake melting off before you can cut it!! You want to work with your catering staff to make sure food is kept properly chilled or heated so that it is safe for your guests during the entire reception!

Outdoor weddings are a gorgeous way to celebrate your day! Keep these tips in mind as you’re planning and it’ll be a dream for you and your guests!!