How to Keep Guests Comfortable at Your Outdoor Wedding: Tips for All Seasons
An outdoor wedding is a beautiful way to say "I do" surrounded by nature, but it comes with its own set of challenges—chiefly, making sure your guests are comfortable no matter what the weather throws their way. Whether you're hosting your wedding in the heat of summer, the crisp air of fall, or any season in between, there are plenty of ways to keep everyone happy and cozy. Here are our top tips for ensuring your outdoor wedding is comfortable and enjoyable for all your guests—whatever the season.
1. Shade and Shelter for Summer Weddings
When you’re planning an outdoor summer wedding, one of the biggest concerns is keeping your guests cool and protected from the sun. Here’s how you can make sure everyone stays comfortable in the heat:
Tent it up: A tented ceremony or reception provides shade and shelter from the sun. Tents can also be equipped with sides to block wind or rain, ensuring guests stay cool and dry.
Fans for a Breeze: Renting electric fans can help keep the air circulating on a warm day. Large standing fans work well for a ceremony or reception, and handheld fans are great for your guests to use during the ceremony itself.
Water Stations: Place water stations throughout the venue to keep everyone hydrated. Infused water with fruits like lemon, cucumber, and mint adds a refreshing touch that’s both practical and pretty.
Sun Protection: Provide stylish sunscreen or sunblock stations, especially if your ceremony will be held outdoors for an extended period. Offering guests stylish sunglasses or parasols can also add a fun, practical touch to your wedding decor.
2. Cozy Fall Weddings with Warmth and Style
Fall weddings are magical, with vibrant colors and a cozy, rustic vibe. But as the temperatures drop, it’s important to keep your guests warm and comfortable:
Blankets and Throws: A fall wedding calls for cozy blankets or shawls for your guests to wrap up in as the evening chill sets in. You can provide cute, folded blankets at seating areas or offer them to guests as they arrive for an extra thoughtful touch.
Fire Pits and Heaters: Set up a fire pit for guests to gather around as the night cools down. If you have space, outdoor heaters placed around the venue can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for an evening reception.
Layering Options: Encourage guests to dress in layers. Offer suggestions on your wedding invites (or wedding website) to remind guests to bring jackets or cozy scarves if needed.
Hot Beverages: Serve warm drinks like cider, hot chocolate, or spiked coffee at the bar. A hot beverage station is a perfect way to keep guests toasty while they mingle.
3. Spring Weddings with a Light Breeze and Blooming Beauty
Spring is the season of renewal, but with those beautiful flowers come fluctuating temperatures and unpredictable weather. Here’s how to keep your guests comfortable:
Layered Fashion: Spring temperatures can vary from morning to evening, so advise guests to bring a light jacket or sweater that they can take off as the day warms up.
Weather-Resistant Seating: If you’re having a spring ceremony, consider renting weather-resistant seating options (like plastic or wood chairs that won’t get too hot or cold) to ensure comfort for your guests, regardless of the weather.
Bring the Umbrella: Be prepared for a spring shower with stylish umbrellas. Whether they’re for your guests or as a photo opportunity for you and your partner, a few umbrellas in strategic places can add a fun and functional element.
Cooling Towels: A great alternative to fans, chilled, scented towels can be a refreshing treat for guests, particularly during a spring afternoon ceremony.
4. Summer Nights and Evening Comforts
If you’re getting married in the summer and your wedding lasts into the evening, here are a few ways to keep your guests comfortable as the temperature drops:
Glow and Lighting: Set the mood with soft lighting such as string lights, lanterns, or candles. Not only do they add a magical ambiance, but they also help your guests feel relaxed and cozy as evening falls.
Bug Repellents: Summer can also bring along pesky bugs. Provide bug spray or citronella candles around seating areas to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Cozy Areas to Mingle: Create smaller, comfy spaces with lounge seating or a cozy, tented corner with throw pillows and blankets, inviting your guests to settle in for intimate conversation while they enjoy the evening.
5. All-Season Tips: Make Your Guests Feel Like VIPs
No matter the season, there are a few universal tips for keeping your guests comfortable and showing them just how much you care:
Comfortable Seating: Comfortable chairs with cushions are essential for guests to enjoy your ceremony and reception, especially if your wedding is on the longer side. If you can, consider cushioned seating options for both the ceremony and reception.
Seasonal Snacks and Food: Include seasonal menu items in your reception meal that are in line with the weather, such as light salads and seafood for summer or warm comfort food for winter. Consider offering fun snacks, like ice cream cones in summer or s’mores in the fall, to keep things light and interactive.
Interactive Touches: For a personal and thoughtful touch, offer hand warmers for cold weather or personalized sunglasses for sunny days. These little details make your guests feel like VIPs and keep them comfortable no matter what the weather does.
