Outdoor ceremonies are lovely in Southwestern Ontario – I’m looking at you Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent – when the weather cooperates. A light breeze, with a. blue sky and some lovely fluffy clouds is what dream outdoor ceremonies are made of, but hot and humid summer days are also very typical for our area. Make sure your wedding party and guests look their best by offering shade retreats (tents, umbrellas, trees) and cool refreshments as much as possible to beat the heat. This will help reduce shiny foreheads, and keep the sweat from darkening your guests clothing, and offer nice soft lighting for photographs. Check out our list below for ways to beat the heat and keep everyone happy during your outdoor ceremony.
12 Tips for Outdoor Wedding Ceremonies
- Have a Weather Backup Plan
I cannot stress how essential this tip is for your outdoor ceremony! Whether it’s a tent, an indoor venue nearby, or a contingency timeline — make sure you have a Plan B in case of rain, wind, or extreme heat. Even a slight drizzle can change the whole vibe, so be prepared! - Check the Sunset Time
Lighting is everything for an outdoor ceremony. Know when the sun sets so you can plan your ceremony to take advantage of the best natural light — typically 1–2 hours before golden hour is ideal for dreamy photos. - Make Guest Comfort a Priority
Provide water, fans, parasols, or blankets depending on the season. Shade is a must for hot days, and a heat lamp or blankets go a long way for chilly evenings. - Use a Sound System
Even the most intimate ceremony can get lost in the open air. Use microphones for your officiant and vows so everyone can hear clearly — especially if it’s windy or there’s ambient noise. - Keep the Decor Wind-Proof
Avoid lightweight decorations that might blow away or tip over. Secure florals, signage, and aisle runners — and consider heavy bases or clips for anything that’s standing up. - Plan for Accessibility
Make sure your ceremony space is easy to reach for all guests, including those with mobility challenges. Paths should be smooth, wide enough, and not too far from parking or shuttles. - Communicate the Dress Code
Let guests know ahead of time that they’ll be outdoors so they can dress appropriately — this helps them feel comfortable and also keeps everyone photo-ready. - Protect the Dress (and Shoes!)
Brides: Consider a dress bustle for walking on grass, and maybe a pair of wedge heels or flats. You can also provide heel protectors for guests who may be walking on grass to prevent sinking, or gravel to prevent scrapes and damage. - Time Your Florals Right
Some flowers wilt fast in heat or direct sun. Work with your florist to choose hardy blooms for outdoor use — or have delicate arrangements brought out right before the ceremony. - Embrace Nature — But Be Bug-Aware
Outdoor spaces are gorgeous, but bugs can be annoying. Provide bug spray or use discreet citronella candles around the perimeter. Bonus: opt for unscented products to avoid clashing with florals. - Personalize Your Altar Space
An outdoor ceremony gives you a blank canvas — use it! Archways, floral installations, fabric, or wooden structures can frame the couple beautifully for photos and add a personal touch. - Don’t Forget the Permits
If you’re using a public space (like a park or beach), make sure you’ve secured any necessary permits and checked regulations regarding noise, decor, and cleanup.
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