Outdoor Wedding Planning: Tips & Ideas
There’s something undeniably magical about saying “I do” surrounded by open skies, fresh air and natural scenery. Whether it’s a sweeping lawn or a scenic courtyard, outdoor wedding venues offer a sense of romance and freedom that can be hard to replicate indoors.
At the same time, hosting a celebration outside comes with unique considerations, from weather to timelines and guest comfort. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan an outdoor wedding that’s as effortless as it is beautiful.
Important Steps for Planning an Outdoor Wedding at Turning Stone
Start by selecting your venue. At Turning Stone, you’ll find a range of open-air weding venue options that blend Upstate New York’s natural beauty with polished resort style, so the moment you step outside, it already feels like magic.
- The Shenendoah Clubhouse: Overlooking an award-winning golf course, it blends refined sophistication with scenic vistas. It’s a stunning backdrop for a grand ceremony or reception, with lush greens extending into the distance.
- Exit 33 Courtyard: Couples seeking an urban-chic flair will find stylish design and a vibrant atmosphere. Its modern touches and inviting space make it perfect for a unique outdoor ceremony and lively celebration.
- The Great Lawn: Located at The Lodge, The Great Lawn is an expansive open space surrounded by manicured landscaping – an ideal blank canvas for large-scale celebrations under the sky. Recognized for its beauty and versatility, it works particularly well for ceremonies and cocktail hours framed by nature.
- The Grand Expo Courtyard: This exciting new courtyard offers a breathtaking outdoor option with stone walkways and lush landscaping for couples seeking an elegantly timeless setting.
Once you’ve chosen your venue, build your team of vendors. Outdoor weddings often have unique logistics needs, so look for photographers and florists with outdoor experience. Our team of wedding specialists can recommend trusted professionals who understand the resort’s spaces and how to make the most of them.
Next, draft a comprehensive wedding day timeline. Outdoor weddings especially benefit from careful planning around weather, light and guest comfort. Include buffers for potential weather delays and set up plenty of transition time between ceremony, photos and reception. Consider the timing of the sun for photos and plan to have contingencies (like shade areas or a rain plan) that your Turning Stone wedding coordinator can help you organize.
Preparing for Outdoor Wedding Weather
Part of the romance of an outdoor wedding is embracing nature – but the key to enjoying it is planning for a few “just in case” moments. Weather can be unpredictable, which is why having a thoughtful backup plan brings peace of mind.
- Heat: Shaded areas, handheld fans and chilled water or signature drinks help guests stay comfortable.
- Rain: A reserved indoor backup space ensures the celebration can continue seamlessly.
- Wind: Securing décor (and your up-do if needed) and planning a reliable sound setup will keep vows audible and details picture-perfect.
Outdoor Wedding Attire
Dressing for an outdoor wedding is about balancing style with comfort. Couples, wedding parties and guests should consider the temperature, the setting and the level of formality. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for warmer months, while soft layers or wraps are perfect for cooler evenings as the sun sets.
Terrain matters too. For ceremonies on grass, footwear like block heels, wedges or elegant flats keeps everyone comfortable without sacrificing style. With a little advance guidance, your guests will feel confident, comfortable and ready to celebrate.
Outdoor Wedding Food & Beverage Considerations
When planning your menu, focus on dishes that hold up beautifully in changing temperatures, like fresh salads, grilled favorites or artfully plated small bites. Interactive stations add a sense of fun and connection, whether it’s a build-your-own salad or pasta bar during cocktail hour, or a cozy s’mores station that draws guests together as the evening cools.
For drinks, signature cocktails inspired by the season pair perfectly with outdoor celebrations, alongside refreshing non-alcoholic options like infused waters or sparkling lemonades. With the right balance of flavor, presentation and practicality, your outdoor menu becomes part of the memory.
Find Your Perfect Outdoor Venue at Turning Stone
Turning Stone is where natural beauty meets award-winning service. With diverse wedding venues, built-in contingency planning and a dedicated team that knows how to bring outdoor celebrations to life, every detail is expertly handled. The result is a day that feels relaxed yet refined so you can focus on the moments that matter most.
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