-- For some brides, the impetus for having an outdoor or home wedding is to cut the cost. Experts suggest tallying up the cost of everything you need to rent (tent, floor, tables, chairs, linens, restrooms, etc) before making a final decision. You may find it more costly than renting a reception hall.
-- Once you commit to an outdoor local, start praying for a clear day. But in case of rain, be sure to reserve an alternate venue and indicate it on the invitation. Many professional wedding facilities have indoor contingency options. If you are planning your wedding at a public park,
experts advise that your home will often work in case of inclement weather.
-- Many outdoor facilities have rules and regulations that govern their use. Check with local officials to see if special permits are required for cooking fires, public parking, etc. Also, be sure to find out in advance if you will be able to serve food and alcohol there.
-- Make sure you have enough restrooms. This applies to home affairs as well as remote sites. In many cases, this means that you'll have to rent portable latrines. If you're having a tent wedding, designate at least two easily accessible bathrooms. But remember, if scores of people are walking across grass before entering the house, the route you arrange should circumvent your mother's prized geraniums.
-- Have adequate outdoor lighting. If people can't see the face of the person they're talking to, they tend to leave once it gets dark. Also have your photographer and videographer visit the site in advance to test lighting before and after dark.
-- Have the disc jockey or band leader visit the site beforehand to check out acoustics and make adequate adjustments.
-- Have a plan in place for handling uninvited guests -- mosquitoes and bugs! Some experts suggest having the site sprayed in advance when possible and having citronella torches posted and ready to light as the sun goes down. You can also provide cans of insect repellent in decorative baskets accessible to guests. On hot, sunny days, a basket filled with bottles of
sunscreen would also be a good idea.
-- Be sure to wear high heels to your dress rehearsal. This will give you a chance to determine if the ground is too soft for you to walk down the isle without tripping because your heels sink into the ground.
-- If you don't want your wedding cake to melt or topple, stay away from mousse fillings, custard, or whipped cream.
-- Enclose maps with clear directions to guests. Be sure to specify an alternative location for inclement weather if necessary.
No comments:
Post a Comment