Planning an Outdoor Wedding Reception

Backyard and Garden reception are popular forms of outdoor wedding receptions. Organizing a reception at the backyard is the most inexpensive and readily available option. The bookings for an outdoor wedding reception are usually done one year or six months in advance.

Things to be considered while planning an Outdoor Wedding Reception

Budget and Reception venue: Set a budget for the reception. Select two or three venues that would fit in the budget. Before visiting the location think about your requirements and check it with the location. Also consider the number of guests that would come for the reception and choose a location that would accommodate all your guests.

Parking Space: Check for the availability of parking space for the number of guests expected on the reception.

Caterer: Ascertain the availability of a wedding caterer near the venue who would supply the required amount of good quality food for the reception. Inform the caterer about the number of guests, food items and your budget. Place an order for a wedding cake in advance as per the flavors and likings. Plan in advance the setup of the wedding cake as well.

Backup plan: Outdoor Wedding Receptions are at the mercy of the weather. Hence, it is very important to plan and arrange for an alternative in advance.

Supplies required for the reception: Enquire about the supplier who could transport chairs, tables, decorations, dance floor, sound system and food items to the reception venue. Ask about the transportation cost and its policies before hiring.

Arrangement of food: Decide the format of serving food i.e. Buffet Style or Sit-up dinner, serving beverages etc.

Decoration: Make arrangements for the decorations at the reception venue. Make a list of the centerpieces, decoration items required for the venue.

Lightings: If the reception is during the day, then there is no need for lighting. During night, there is need for proper lightings to add color and variation to the reception. Hire a wedding lighting designer or plan about the types of lightings and ways to illuminate the reception venue.

Permissions: Take the necessary permissions required for organizing a reception at the venue. Check about the noise restrictions and abide by the contract.

Seating arrangement: Plan the sitting arrangement in advance. Place the guest book at the entrance of the reception.

Important guidelines regarding Planning for an Outdoor Wedding Reception:

Planning about the arrival of the bridal party at the reception: Select someone from the family to host the reception. After the arrival of the bridal party, inform the guests about their arrival at the venue.

Receiving line: Arrange for the proper receiving line at the reception. It would make it easier for the guests to wish the newly-wed couple. Include the bride, the groom, parents of the bride, parents of the groom and bridesmaids.

Photographs: Hire a professional photographer or assign the duty of taking photos to close relative or friend. Discuss and plan in advance the way /features you expect in the reception photos.

It is a very big challenge to anticipate and organize an outdoor wedding reception. Hence, with proper planning and adequate measures, we could organize a memorable outdoor wedding reception.