In collaboration with Oscar Collins

10 Tips for a Sophisticated Wilderness Wedding

Many couples dream of a romantic outdoor wedding, but pulling it off takes a lot of preparation. Discover 10 practical tips to help you with your planning process. From hiring the right photographer to proper food storage, here’s how to plan a seamless celebration.

1. Consider the Weather

Weather is the most significant factor when planning an outdoor wedding. Depending on your locality, heat, snow or rain can pose concerns. To better ensure a successful celebration, you may want to schedule your date in the summer. July and August are two popular months for outdoor and beach weddings because there’s a low chance of disruptive weather.

2. Think About the Space for your Sophisticated Wilderness Wedding

When choosing a venue, consider your guest list, date and time. For instance, if you want a mountain backdrop in Mammoth Lakes, California, you’ll want to plan a summer wedding. Assess the space, weather conditions, terrain and accessibility. Secure a venue near an airport and hotel if you invite out-of-town guests. 

If you’re hiring a string quartet, opt for a venue with a tent. Wooden musical instruments may be severely damaged when exposed to sunlight, so provide appropriate shade for them.

3. Hire an Outdoor Wedding Photographer

Choose a photographer specializing in outdoor weddings to ensure your photos are captured beautifully. Photographing a wilderness celebration presents unique challenges due to weather and lighting conditions — an expert must know how to adapt to these. 

Review your prospective photographer’s portfolio before hiring them. Does their style align with your vision? Do they know your venue? Are they easy to work with? Remember, this professional will be with you all day, so choose the right one.

4. Wear Appropriate Clothing

Outdoor nuptials can become uncomfortable if you’re not wearing proper attire. If your wedding is in the mountains, you may opt for flats or boots. Breathable, delicate fabrics like tulle, crepe and batiste are suitable for summer months and outdoor weddings. A tea-length or knee-length shorter dress can be an excellent option, especially if you’re concerned about dirt and damage.

5. Have a Backup Plan for your Sophisticated Wilderness Wedding

A plan B is a must, no matter the time of year. You’ll never know when it will rain, so keep an alternate site handy in inclement weather. If relocating is not an option, consider reserving a tent when you book your site.

You can also rent a generator to power essential components like music, lighting and catering equipment. Generators can also protect you should the power go out during the ceremony or reception. Consider hiring a professional to ensure cables and accessories are compatible with your generator’s voltage and amperage capacity to ensure an amazing celebration.

6. Keep Guests Informed and Comfortable

Inform guests about the outdoor venue, dress code and attire inspirations on your wedding website and invitation so they can plan their attire accordingly. Be transparent about the little details — are they going to walk on grass, gravel or sand? Overcommunicate so they come well-prepared.

Prepare for bug issues, too. Consider having your venue sprayed by an exterminator days before your big day. Provide insect repellent to guests to reduce the chances of getting bitten by bugs and ensure a comfortable environment.

7. Choose the Right Theme and Palette

A significant advantage of outdoor weddings is having nature as decor. There’s greenery in the summer and orange hues in the fall. Before deciding on a theme, consider these tips to avoid clashing elements:

Provide proper lighting to ensure your venue is well-lit throughout the day. Some options are colored spotlights, fairy lights and lanterns.

Avoid blacks and greens if your site has green vegetation. Opt for vibrant hues that complement nature.

If you’re hosting a beach wedding, opt for bright yellows, teals and pinks that match the colors of the sky and ocean.

8. Store Food Properly

Talk with your wedding planner and caterer about the best ways to preserve food outdoors. One common suggestion is to use oscillating fans. Proper storage is key to keeping food safe and fresh until it’s ready to be served. Use portable refrigerators and coolers to store perishables at safe temperatures.

9. Consider Hiring Security

Security professionals help prevent disruptions from uninvented guests and manage the behavior of intoxicated guests. Alcohol intake can cause mood changes, which may lead to potential damage.

10. Rent Nice Restrooms

Look for luxury portable restrooms with tasteful additions like in-room music, luxe handsoaps, air conditioners or heaters, and fresh flowers. Investing in clean restrooms guarantees attendees remain comfortable throughout your big day.

Plan the Wedding of Your Dreams

Preparing for your big day can be a lot of work, but it’s a fantastic adventure worth enjoying. Implement these wedding tips to ensure you and your guests have an unforgettable time in the great outdoors.