Thinking About an Outdoor Wedding? Read This Before Booking Your Venue

There is something undeniably beautiful about an outdoor wedding.

The scenery, sunshine, greenery, open air and those gorgeous sunset photos can create a magical wedding experience. But before you fall in love with a venue because the pictures look amazing, there are a few practical things you need to consider.

The scenery may be beautiful, but your guests' comfort matters too!

 Don't Underestimate the Heat

A sunny wedding sounds perfect , until your guests have been sitting in direct sunlight for an hour.

Older guests, grandparents and young children can have a particularly difficult time dealing with extended 

periods of heat.

When looking at outdoor venues, make sure there is a covered or shaded area for both the ceremony and reception, or at minimum somewhere guests can escape the sun.

Consider shaded seating, tents, fans, water stations and access to an indoor space.

 Always Have a REAL Plan B

Weather can change quickly, especially in Alberta.

Don't simply ask, "Do you have a backup plan if it rains?"

Ask the venue to show you the backup space.

Where will the ceremony go? Where will the reception go? Where will the DJ set up? What happens if there is a storm or strong winds?

Your Plan B should be something you are actually comfortable with , not something you're hoping 

you'll never have to use.

 Ask About Decibel Restrictions BEFORE You Book!

This is a big one, especially with outdoor and country wedding venues.

Many have strict decibel and noise restrictions because they are located near residential areas or other properties.

You may be dreaming of a packed dance floor with the music pumping, only to discover that the venue has a strict sound limit or requires music to be turned down or shut off at a certain time.

Before signing your contract, ask:

• What is the maximum decibel level?

• Where is sound measured from?

• Is there a noise curfew?

• Are outdoor speakers or subwoofers restricted?

• Does the venue monitor sound levels?

Talk to your DJ before booking!

A professional DJ can help you understand how these restrictions may affect your sound and dance floor. Outdoor sound is very different from indoor sound, and speaker placement can make a huge difference.

A gorgeous venue isn't necessarily the right venue if you can't have the party you've envisioned.

 Bugs and Mosquitos Are Invited Too!

Unfortunately, your guests aren't the only ones attending your outdoor wedding.

Mosquitos, flies and other insects can become a major annoyance , and they can also be attracted to your food and bar areas.

Ask the venue about pest control and consider providing mosquito repellent or bug stations for guests.

It's a small detail that can make a big difference.

 Think About the Food

Outdoor food service comes with its own challenges.

Ask your caterer how they will protect food from the heat, insects and weather.

Is the food covered? Is there access to power and water? Is the catering area protected?

These aren't the glamorous questions, but they're important ones.

 Don't Forget About Wind

Wind can affect more than just your hairstyle!

It can impact tents, decorations, flowers, signage, microphones, speakers and other equipment.

Ask how the venue handles strong winds and whether outdoor structures are properly secured.

 Think About Your Entire Guest List

Don't just think about what you want. Think about your guests.

Do you have grandparents attending? Young children? Guests with mobility issues?

Make sure there are accessible washrooms, comfortable seating and easy access to shaded or indoor areas.

Think About the EXPERIENCE , Not Just the Photos

This is probably the most important thing to remember.

It's easy to fall in love with an outdoor venue because the scenery is incredible.

And it should be!

But your wedding isn't just a photo shoot. It's an experience.

You want your guests to remember how beautiful the venue was, but you also want them to remember being comfortable, enjoying the food and having an incredible time on the dance floor.

Before you sign the contract, ask:

What happens if it's extremely hot?

What happens if it rains or storms?

Are there strict decibel restrictions?

What time does the music have to be turned down or shut off?

Where will the DJ set up?

How will bugs and mosquitoes be handled?

Where will older guests and children be comfortable?

What is the Plan B?

At GG Entertainment, we don't just show up with speakers and press play. We think about the entire event experience , from sound placement and power requirements to guest comfort and keeping that dance floor moving.

Because your wedding should look amazing AND feel amazing.

Beautiful scenery is a bonus. A well-planned wedding is what your guests will remember.