A Summer Wedding Reception in the Perfect English Garden Setting
With summers seemingly getter warmer and dryer here in the UK, more couples are opting to hold their wedding reception in the great outdoors. These stunning images show how with a little thought and planning, an outdoor reception can be incredibly memorable and magical.
What to Consider When Planning an Outdoor Reception
When selecting the ideal location, there are a lot of factors to think about for the day to run smoothly. Organising an outdoor wedding reception creates new challenges for event planners. We’ve outlined some of the key points to consider to ensure your reception is a beautiful day to remember.
Level Ground
Consider the ground surface and ensure that it’s suitably level for laying out large tables and seating for guests. The benefit of holding your reception indoors or under a marquee is that you have a solid floor to work from. If your location is not flat or the ground is uneven, you may need to consider installing a temporary floor. We work with marquee companies who can help advise and supply if this is required.
Power Supply
Do you need power? It’s almost certainly a yes. If the event is to continue into the evening and after dusk, power for lighting will be very important. And don’t forget about the speeches, do you need power for the microphone and speakers? A nearby power source and suitably long extension cables will be required. Or if your chosen location is remote, you may need to consider a generator. Situating the generator close enough to be convenient without the noise of the engine disturbing guests are all things to plan well.
Lighting
If your reception continues into the evening, lighting will be important and is a key part of the event décor. The beautiful images in this gallery show how our Empire chandeliers can be used as focal points even at outdoor events. Here we used our sturdy chandeliers stands to hang the lights directly over the dining tables. These sparkling beauties look fabulous throughout the day and night with their elegant shape and ornate detail. During the daylight the sun catches their crystals then as the evening arrives, the chandeliers are light up from within casting a warm glow beneath. You can find more stunning examples of outdoor events and receptions in our outdoor chandeliers gallery.
Guest Facilities
It sounds so romantic to get married in a remote location with wilderness all around, however the more remote, the more tricky it becomes to bring in all the facilities to make you and your guests comfortable. It may be stating the obvious, but remote locations usually also means lack of key resources such as electricity, water and sanitary facilities. Of course anything is possible if you have a healthy budget, but if you are looking to keep costs manageable, then consider holding your reception in close proximity to a building which can provide these essential facilities. Garden receptions often provide the perfect solution as the main house may be suitable for providing the guests facilities without having to bring these in.
Catering Facilities
If you are planning a formal wedding meal for your guests, then you will require a professional kitchen setup nearby to your dining area for food and drinks preparation and serving. You may plan to dine alfresco, however hiring a marquee to provide the catering crew with the space they need is a great idea.
Parking and Taxis
No matter where you choose to hold your reception, many of your guests will arrive by car so allocating ample space for parking is essential.
Plan B – The English Weather
Just in case the heavens open, it’s essential to have plan b. A stunning stretch marquee or indoor space to house a bar and guests if the worst happens is a good alternative should the weather become an issue.
If you are considering holding your wedding reception or event outside, we’d love to help you plan your big day. Please contact us to discuss your ideas, we are here to offer advice and ensure your day is a huge success.
Image Credits
Flowers by Aqua Flowers Wedding and Events Ltd
aquaflorist.com
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