Outdoor Oklahoma Wedding Tips

   OKLAHOMA. “Where the wind comes sweeping down the plains.” If you have lived in Oklahoma for any length of time you also realize that with the wind often comes rain and without the wind, well, it can get hotter and more humid than you could ever be comfortable with. With that realization in mind, an outdoor wedding in Oklahoma can also be one of the most beautiful and fun choices that you can make during your wedding planning. Once you have decided that an outdoor wedding is the one for you it takes a qualified planner to accomplish the intricate and often overlooked details that an outdoor wedding can require. You want someone with experience and who can have a backup plan executed flawlessly on just moments notice. Someone who can keep in mind the needs of the ceremony and also the comfort of the guests. I have interviewed three wedding planners that have experience with planning outdoor weddings and asked them for three tips each. Here is what they have to say…

Erica Scott (Erica Weddings)

1. Give extreme consideration for the season in which you are planning your outdoor wedding. What does that mean for your guests? Should you advise them to dress in a certain way so as to ensure they are comfortable? Perhaps a cool, or warm if applicable, beverage should be offered upon their arrival to the ceremony if the ceremony is outdoors. If temperature will decrease significantly after the sun goes down, will heaters will be necessary to keep guests comfortable? 
2. How will the sun affect your event? Visit the ceremony site at various points of the day that you are considering setting your ceremony. Gauge where the sun and shade is at those various times. If you can avoid seating guests in full sun for any part of the event during a summer wedding that is the wisest move. You do not want the sun in your guests’ eyes during the ceremony. You do not want the sun in your eyes during the ceremony. Full shade is best for you AND your guests’ comfort level so choose your ceremony time and locale accordingly.
3. Outdoor events require special consideration such as restroom facilities, access to trash receptacles, adequate parking availability, caterer kitchen/staging area, electricity access, etc. Don’t overlook these things. Most importantly, what is your backup plan in the case of inclement weather? Nearby indoor space available, bringing in a tent, etc.
4. Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of outdoor weddings that I come across is a consideration for the effects of wind. Are your centerpieces strong enough to withstand gusts of wind without toppling over? Any paper goods on the tables (i.e. menu cards, reserved signs, escort cards, etc.) must be weighted down or else you’ll be chasing them down all day/night. If it is windy come ceremony time, perhaps it’s best to nix the veil – you don’t want to be fighting it while trying to say your vows.

Sharon Holm (Tulsa Weddings and Design)

1. Always have a Plan B for weather and other variables that Mother Nature may present on your wedding day. 
2. Your guests will begin to arrive 30 minutes prior to the ceremony. Having a water station or cold bottled water available for your guest as they arrive is a great way to welcome your guests. 
3. Keep in mind that even with the best weather and circumstance most outdoor receptions do not last nearly as long as indoor receptions. Move up your itinerary and plan your grand entrance before 10pm. 
4. Plan accordingly for restrooms. Look into renting outdoor facilities if necessary. Your guests should be enjoying the evening, not standing in line all night at the unisex restroom.
5. Be prepared for bugs!! When you mix food, drinks and sweet cakes with the outdoors you are going to be fighting of the bugs. Have a plan in advance to avoid the pesky critters. 
6. Keep your wedding party attire simple. No one feels like smiling when they are melting in their suits or dresses. Keep the attire light and airy… Literally! 

Rene Punch (Mom and Me Events)

1. Depending on the venue and if you must generate power to supply all lighting needs; ask each of your vendors that would require electricity how many amps are needed.  Band, DJ, Photobooth, Lighting, Bathroom facilities are all going to need power and it is best to know their needs before the wedding day to avoid any concerns.  Your local rental company can often assist with the size of generator you need to supply all of your vendors as well.
2. Always have a Plan B for inclement weather and make guests aware that you are having an outdoor event so they can plan the appropriate dress attire.   Weather is not something you can control; have an open mind when planning an outdoor wedding and know that some months are just more suitable than others. Tenting is always a good plan for both sun blocking and inclement weather needs.  
3. Often times you will need to rent chairs and tables for an outdoor event and it may be a consideration in reducing costs; the choice is made to use the same chairs for the ceremony as the reception.  If this is the case; plan accordingly to have designated people or hire staffing to move the chairs for you.  If your budget is a little flexible; it is always best to rent chairs for both locations.  
4. Have bottled water and fans available to your guests if this is during peak temperatures.  Often programs can be printed on a fan by your invitation designer.

 If you keep in mind these excellent tips you are sure to be prepared for whatever mother nature decides to bless you with on your special day. As you can see from the photo below, even an incoming storm can make for some beautiful Oklahoma pictures! 

About the author

Jake Westerfield is the owner of Excellence Photo Booths. Providing Photo Booth rentals throughout Oklahoma and sales Worldwide for the past 5 years. Attention to detail, excellent customer service, and daring to be different have proven Excellence Photo Booths as the pinnacle of Photo Booth choices in this region. Reliable, Trustworthy, and Dependable, a reservation with Excellence Photo Booths ensures that your wedding day entertainment will be handled with care and giggles from the Photo Booth are sure to resonate with your guests. For more information and to reserve a booth please contact them at 918-899-0299 or through email at [email protected]. For website information visit www.ExcellencePhotoBooths.com.