Outdoor weddings offer a romantic and natural setting, as well as flexibility in creating a unique event tailored to your style.

They also require meticulous planning. We've put together tips to help you plan and execute a magical outdoor wedding day for you and your guests.

Is An Outdoor Wedding Right for You?

Before we get into our tips, let's take a closer look at outdoor weddings. They're not for everyone. Here are a few of their plusses and downsides.

Outdoor Wedding Pros

-You and your guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of natural surroundings and scenery, not to mention the feel of an open-air environment.

-You'll have the freedom to be creative with your decor, lighting, and layout.

-You'll have more accommodation options for larger guest lists.

Outdoor Wedding Cons

-Weather is an uncontrollable factor (rain, wind, heat).

-You'll need backup indoor options.

-Outdoor weddings require careful coordination of rentals like tents, floors, and lighting.

-You could encounter issues with bugs, sun exposure, or noise.

If you decide an outdoor wedding is right for you, follow these tips for a successful outdoor wedding.

1. Have a Rain Plan

One of the biggest concerns that come with outdoor weddings is rain.

Have a backup plan like rental tents, an indoor venue option, or just embracing "rain plan" decorations like clear umbrellas.

2. Prepare for Other Weather Issues

Things like wind, humidity, heat, and bugs can disrupt an outdoor wedding.

Have cooling stations, bug spray, and accessories like parasols or fans. Time the ceremony for mild temperatures.

3. Rent the Right Lighting

As the sun goes down, proper lighting is key.

String lights, lanterns, and candles create a romantic glow.

Bring in professional lighting to make sure no areas are too dark.

4. Keep Your Guests Comfortable

Shaded spaces can contribute greatly to your guests' comfort.

Rent umbrellas, sailcloths, or have a tent where your wedding guests can escape the sun.

We also recommend blankets for colder evenings, and possibly even a station with bug spray and sunscreen.

5. Focus on Ventilation

Even a light breeze can disrupt an outdoor ceremony or dinner.

Use structure tenting to block wind and enhance airflow in key areas.

6. Create Ambiance with Decor

Enhance the natural landscape with decor tailored to your venue. Try wooden pieces, floral installations, hanging greenery, and similar elements.

7. Plan Guest Transportation

If your wedding will take place in a remote location, arrange shuttles or carpools for guests so they don't get lost.

Have parking attendants and golf carts to help everyone get around.

8. Schedule Hair and Makeup Early

Outdoor conditions like humidity and wind can take a toll. Have hair and makeup done very early to look fresh all day.

9. Incorporate Locally Sourced Elements

Use in-season florals and food from local sources. It's eco-friendly and allows you to highlight your locale.

10. Embrace Nature in Photos

An outdoor setting offers endless amazing photography opportunities with natural backdrops, unique perspectives, and gorgeous golden-hour lighting.

The Bell Tower on 34th, an elegant wedding and event venue in Houston, TX, is committed to helping recently engaged couples realize their wedding vision.

Our Instagrammable venue, with beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, delivers unforgettable weddings, corporate events, parties, and rehearsal dinners.

Contact us to learn about holding a wedding here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355