Outdoor Wedding Things To Consider

Southern California weddings are popular because our sunny skies allow us to have an outdoor weddings almost all year round. This is a popular option for couples whether they want to feel connected with nature, or just want that open air alfresco dining experience for their wedding. I’m a huge fan of outdoor weddings too, but they don’t come without complications. Check out some of the top outdoor wedding things to consider when planning a southern California wedding.

Lighting

When you are touring an outdoor wedding venue, you’ll want to ask about lighting. Most venue tours will happen during the day so lighting is likely not on your radar when thinking of how everything will look. Even in the summer, an evening wedding in Southern California will go past sunset so you want to make sure the space you are using for your reception is properly lit. Lighting is important not just for ambiance, but also for the safety of guests getting around after dark. Make sure to ask if there is existing lighting and what exactly it is, or if you are going to need to bring in your own.

Restrooms

Restrooms are another thing that can get overlooked. Most venues in Southern California will offer indoor/outdoor spaces with restrooms available on site. If your venue does not have restrooms on site, or perhaps they are not available for use, you will need to bring them in. Depending on your guest count and how many stalls the venue has, you may still need to bring in extra with a larger guest count.

Electricity

Whether your outdoor wedding will have only the ceremony outside, or have the full event outside, electricity is a big consideration. For ceremonies, your DJ or musicians will need to have a speaker set up. Your music vendor may have battery powered speakers, but it’s important to know if there is power available in case they don’t. Always check! Power also needs to be available for lighting, reception sound, and a satellite kitchen if there is not an established one. Part of my final venue walkthrough as a Los Angeles wedding planner is locating where all of the outlets are which can help in deciding where to place the DJ, photobooth, etc. Or to determine the need and length of any extension cords.

Plan B For Weather

Southern California weddings have the benefit of good weather most of the year. But weather can still be unpredictable. An unexpected morning shower will hopefully dry up by the time your vendor team is there to set up. But it’s always good to have a backup plan if you are having your wedding in winter months, or even early spring. Many venues will have the benefit of an indoor/outdoor setting that if worst came to worst, could be set up completely indoors with some logistical creativity. If you are thinking there is a possibility you may need a tent, make sure to account for that in your budget. It truly was a shock the first time I had to price one out for a client. If your wedding lands on a chillier day, consider purchasing a few blankets for guests to cozy up with during the ceremony,

Sun Position

Adding on to the weather consideration is noting where and how intense the sun will be during your event. Many weddings will have an early evening ceremony which during summer in Southern California will still be prime sunlight. Ask your venue where the sun will be at your ceremony time, or if you can visit close to that time of day to get an idea. The last thing you want is your guests melting while they are trying to enjoy your wedding vows. Providing your guests with a little bit of shade will go a long way! And don’t forget about hydration. Have a water station set up for guests to keep cool and hydrated on a hot day.

Accessibility

When looking at spaces for your outdoor wedding, keep accessibility in mind. Make sure any handicapped or elderly guests have safe access to reach the venue. Good signage will also be a big help for all guests to get around a larger outdoor space. Ceremony, restroom, and reception signs will help everyone to get to where they need to be for your outdoor wedding.

Planning a Southern California outdoor wedding got you overwhelmed? There can be some extra logistics involved that can be confusing and stressful. As a Los Angeles wedding planner, I’m here to help! The reason I know about everything on this list is that I’ve encountered it and I know to plan and prep for these things. If you’re thinking you need some extra help in navigating wedding planning, reach out so we can chat more. I’d love to help!

Photos in this post by Alexes Lauren Photography, Philip Tran, One Love