PLANNED TO PERFECTION So, now you can take advantage of the great outdoors from vows to celebrations, where do you start planning and what do you need to take into account that you otherwise wouldn’t at a traditional indoor venue? Katherine tells us more, “Our main advice is to make sure you have a wet and dry weather plan.” There can be little more beautiful and romantic than marrying in the most picturesque of garden settings, but you do need to consider how to protect yourselves and your loved ones from the elements if the British weather should try to put a dampener on proceedings, so shelter should be your number-one priority. “One practical suggestion would be to hire an opensided stretch tent providing effortlessly flowing, weather-proof cover for the ceremony,” Katherine says. It does indeed pay to be prepared, particularly if the forecast is unsettled. “Make the call early, especially if you need to move furniture,” is Sally’s advice. Keeping your nearest and dearest comfortable whatever the day throws at you is an important part of your preparations, think about providing blankets for a chilly evening and umbrellas just in case. As Brits, it’s our default setting to worry about the rain, but what if it’s hot? Sally says, “Make sure there’s adequate shade for your guests during the reception, and if they’re in the sun during the ceremony, ensure you have plenty of accessible water. Fans are also a great idea for cooling down.” You could even source some cheap sunglasses for guests to grab so they don’t miss a second of your ceremony through squinting into the sun. To help loved ones take care of their own wellbeing, it’s important to make it clear in your invitations that your big-day will be al fresco. That way, they can avoid any faux pas such as stiletto heels and will know to pack the sun cream. One of the most exciting elements of any wedding is the food and outdoor nuptials offer a naturally more informal vibe with a myriad of fun options. Instead of a traditional sit-down threecourse meal for example, you might want to look into having a buffet or barbecue without a table plan, where guests can grab their plates and pull up a seat in whatever idyllic spot they find nearby with the flexibility and space to mingle. Or for a little more organisation, simply allocate them a table, but offer them to choice of seat. Another super-fun idea is to hire food trucks serving delicious street food or a wood-fired pizza caterer to create a festival atmosphere. Sally says, “If you opt for this type of wedding, make sure you hire a generator able to provide enough power for your vendors. Have a think as well about how your food will be served and make sure the location is practical for your caterers. Finally, find out whether your venue offers access to toilets, or will you need to rent some? ” http://lighttrick.co.uk for The Arabian Tent Company 60
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