Ah, outdoor tented weddings. They conjure images of romantic sunsets, gentle breezes, and an intimate with nature that indoor venues can hardly match. It's the kind of wedding many of my New York couples dream of - and for good reason! The backdrop of the city's skyline or its greener outskirts can add an unforgettable charm to your special day. But, as with anything that seems effortlessly beautiful, there’s a bit of legwork behind the scenes to make that dream a reality! Fortunately, you’re in the right place because I can help you with all the details and planning required for a beautiful outdoor tented wedding (without the stress).
Now, let's dive into the five key things you should know about planning an outdoor tented wedding!
If you need REAL outdoor tented wedding inspiration, check out our client's gorgeous wedding here.
1. Not All Tents Are Created Equal
First things first, let's talk tents. Not all tents are equipped to handle whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at your big day. When it comes to weddings, tents are more like temporary luxury ballrooms. There are pole tents, frame tents, sailcloth tents... the list goes on. Each type has its charm and its own set of requirements, especially regarding weather. Remember, a clear top tent might look stunning against a sunset backdrop, but it'll turn into a greenhouse faster than you can say "I do" if the weather decides to spike.
The lesson? When picking your tent, consider the season, location, and weather forecast. Remember, choosing the right tent is crucial, and it's where a planner's expertise (read this before you hire a wedding planner!) can save you from a weather-induced headache.
2. Hosting an Outdoor Wedding at Home
Thinking of hosting your wedding at home to add that personal touch? I LOVE where your heart's at, but as a wedding planner, let's not forget the logistics. Hosting at home means thinking of permits for gatherings, parking arrangements for your guests, ensuring there's enough electricity and water supply, and, let's remember, restrooms. Planning ahead or handing the task off to someone who knows the ins and outs of the process (wink, wink) will ensure your home is as prepared for your wedding day as you are.
3. The Floor Is Yours: To Rent or Not to Rent?
Next, let's talk flooring. Sure, dancing on the grass under the stars sounds romantic, but your guests in heels might beg to differ. Renting flooring can save your elegantly dressed guests from a battle with the turf, but it comes with a price tag. My advice? Consider investing in flooring for critical areas, like under the dining tables and the dance floor, while letting the rest of the space embrace the natural ground. Your budget (and guests' heels) will thank you.
4. Setup and Takedown of an Outdoor Tented Wedding
One of the most underestimated aspects of an outdoor tented wedding is the time required for setup and takedown. An outdoor tented wedding is like building a venue from the ground up, literally. This means setup and takedown times are longer than traditional venues. It's not just about popping up a tent; it's about creating a comfortable, functional space. Fortunately, if you are having a wedding at home, this may be less of an issue, but it’s still something you want to consider!
Ensure you have a detailed plan with your vendors, and consider day-before setup and day-after takedown to keep your wedding day as stress-free as possible. The logistics can be overwhelming, but with a seasoned planner, you’ll have someone to handle the timing and coordination for you every step of the way.
5. Tented Weddings Aren’t Always Cheaper
Lastly, let's address the elephant in the room. Yes, outdoor tented weddings are beautiful. They really do offer a blank canvas that allows your wedding vision to come to life in the most personalized way (especially paired with a more sentimental location like a family property). However, it's a common misconception that they're cheaper than traditional venues. Let me just expel that myth right now. Costs can add up quickly with rentals, setup, permits, and all the extra considerations. But for many couples, the ability to create a completely customized and memorable experience is worth every penny.
Your Outdoor Tented Wedding
While planning an outdoor tented wedding in Long Island (or anywhere) comes with its own set of challenges, it's also an opportunity to craft a celebration that truly reflects who you are as a couple. It's about creating a day so magical, so uniquely yours, that your guests can't help but feel the love in every detail. And yes, while it might require a bit more legwork (and budgeting prowess), the result is a breathtakingly beautiful celebration that's well worth the price of admission.
So, if the idea of planning an outdoor tented wedding in New York excites you as much as it does me, let’s chat! Together, we can ensure that your wedding isn’t just beautiful but also beautifully stress-free. As your wedding planner, I'm here to guide you through each step, ensuring your outdoor tented wedding is nothing short of the dreamy, magical day you've envisioned. Click here to discover how we can collaborate, and let the adventure begin!
