Dreaming of an outdoor ceremony in Upstate NY? Venues that offer outdoor wedding ceremony sites allow couples to customize the ceremony space specifically to how they envision their wedding day. An outdoor ceremony space can be transformed into a unique one-of-a-kind experience. Upstate NY is an incredible wedding destination that offers everything from forest weddings to mountain views, and lakefronts.
At the Preston Barn, we host weddings every month of the year depending on what our couples prefer. Each season offers something picturesque and we accommodate all weather conditions. Our open ceremony space has a woodland backdrop that is perfect for any season. In the spring small budding flowers cover the trees, the summer offers luscious shades of green, the fall brings rich tones of red, orange, and yellow, and winter provides a beautiful snowy backdrop. We have seen it all and that is why we would like to provide a complete guide on how to plan an outdoor wedding ceremony in Upstate NY.
Outdoor Seating Arrangements
When planning your outdoor wedding ceremony the first thing you want to do is check with your venue if chairs or benches are provided for the ceremony space. Some venues offer this in the wedding package or may provide a list of event rental companies to choose from in the area. This is where all-inclusive wedding venues can add a few perks versus DIY weddings. We provide white chairs at the Preston Barn that can accommodate up to 220 guests comfortably. Remember to reserve seats up front for parents, grandparents, and other “VIP” or elderly guests.
Other things to consider:
Lighting. What time of day will the ceremony be and where will the sun be? You want the best lighting for photos and you also don’t want to blind or burn your guests!
Prepare for the elements. You can set a basket out for your guests to make sure they are comfortable. Some of these items (depending on the season, environment, etc.) could be sunglasses, blankets/pashminas, bug spray, water/welcome drinks, or heel stoppers for possible wet grounds. (more on weather stuff later, keep reading!)
Outdoor Wedding Arch
The wedding arch is a statement piece that creates a focal point for your wedding. Current trends for weddings are over-the-top arrangements and the wedding arch is the perfect statement piece to create this look. At the Preston Barn, we offer a rustic wooden square framed outdoor wedding arch that can be fully customized.
Here is a list of elements you can add to your wedding arch to make it one of a kind:
● Flowy drapery
● Floral arrangements
● Feathers
● Vines
● Greenery
● Pampas grass
● Dried flowers
● Wooden flowers
● String lights
Here are some examples of arches we have seen here. Some of them are the arbor we provide, and some were brought in by our couples. Check it out!
Outdoor Wedding Aisle Runner
Depending on the outdoor ceremony space, you may consider adding a wedding aisle runner. Not only is it functional but also adds an extra decorative element to your wedding. Burlap runners are trending options for outdoor weddings that have rustic or boho themes. If couples opt for a white runner, flower petals or eucalyptus leaves add an elegant touch. For something out of the ordinary, consider using a long vintage rug as an outdoor wedding aisle runner.
Outdoor Ceremony Space Ideas
The elements you add to an outdoor ceremony space are what make your wedding stand out. This is where your creativity can shine with the help of any wedding planner or coordinator to make sure everything comes together as planned.
● Custom signs displayed at the front of the ceremony space are great ways to direct guests on where to sit or a kind way of saying this is an unplugged ceremony. A large engagement photo can also be displayed at the entrance of your ceremony space to add a personal touch.
● Pampas grass and dried flower arrangements tied to the aisle chairs with burlap ribbon can add a whimsical feel that will compliment a burlap aisle runner. This option is perfect for any season since it’s a dry arrangement and will not be affected by changing temperatures.
● Tulle bows tied to the back of chairs are classic elements to brighten up the seating arrangements. If you're having a summer wedding, add paper fans to the tulle bows for guests to use if they get overheated. In the winter months, consider having small blankets or scarves rolled up on each chair for guests to stay warm and to use as wedding favors.
● Consider having a minibar with drinks near the entrance of the ceremony space for guests prior to the wedding. In the warmer months, refreshing pre-drink cocktails such as mimosas or mint juleps are great for guests to enjoy. For fall and winter weddings, spiked or non-alcoholic hot chocolate or hot cider bar is the perfect option to help guests warm up on a chilly day.
Outdoor Wedding Weather Conditions
Many couples love the thought of an outdoor wedding but often worry about the weather. Will it be too hot or too cold, will it be windy or rainy on the big day? These are all things to consider when planning your outdoor ceremony. When choosing the date for your wedding it might be smart to check the weather from the past five years. Of course, anything can happen but you can get a good idea of average temperatures on that particular day.
The best practice is to work with your venue or wedding coordinator to have a backup plan in place. Venues that offer outdoor weddings already know what is needed for any type of weather. They might suggest options such as a large tent to cover the ceremony space or outdoor stand-up heaters to line the aisle. Bringing umbrellas that can be used during the wedding ceremony and for photographs is a good idea even if you're not expecting rain. Random showers can pop up at any time and it’s better to be prepared. On the plus side wedding portraits can look incredible in the rain!
Wedding venues that offer outdoor wedding ceremonies are one of a kind. They allow you to plan and create a unique atmosphere that fits your style and personality. Depending on your wedding venue you may be able to use what is already provided such as seating accommodations or you may have to hire a rental company to provide the elements you need. Aisle runners and wedding arches create the perfect focal point during the ceremony. Decorations can be as simple as adding hand-crafted signs, floral arrangements, and tulle throughout the ceremony space. Most importantly backup weather plans are a must-have to make sure everything runs smoothly.
At The Preston Barn, we can accommodate any outdoor wedding ceremony with the help of our highly talented onsite wedding coordinator to help our couples plan their wedding from start to finish. Our venue offers everything from seating arrangements to an incredible outdoor ceremony arch. If you would like to learn more about our all-inclusive wedding venue in Upstate NY please contact us or schedule a tour.
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