A couple of weeks ago, I brought to you some of the best wedding venues in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. In case you have fallen in love with these gorgeous spaces as much as I have, and have chosen to have your wedding outside, I thought a good follow-up would be to share 3 tips for planning your outdoor wedding! After all, there are a million steps between choosing a wedding venue and enjoying a flawless wedding day. That’s why my couples hire Brehant Creations! If you are new to our corner of the internet, WELCOME. We would love to hear more about your wedding day vision, and how we might help bring it to life in an interesting and unexpected way. Learn more about ways to work with us here.

Outdoor Wedding Tip #1: Use Heavier Table Decor

Yup! Starting with something that might seem obvious, but is very easy to forget! Those gorgeous paper calligraphy place cards you love on Pinterest? Can quickly become a disaster with even the slightest hint of wind so make sure they’re attached to something. I love a soft and light cheesecloth table runners, but if you are hosting your wedding outdoors you are going to need some weight to keep them looking like you imagined. Glassware and florals can both help keep your linens and lighter decor elements in place as well. You just need to be strategic about it ahead of time.

Outdoor Wedding Tip #2: Add some lounge furniture spaces!

Whether your wedding is completely outside or just includes elements outdoors, I always have fun working with my couples to add lounge furniture in both expected and unexpected places! Especially if you are choosing one of the larger wedding properties in Connecticut, your guests will have fun looking around the property while you are having your photos taken. I will never turn down the opportunity to add some lounge furniture but it’s especially appreciated in an outdoor space.

Outdoor Wedding Tip #3: If You Have the Space, Add Fun Outdoor Wedding Elements

In the last few years, mobile photo booths and larger-than-life lawn games have become all the rage. When I start to plan a wedding with my couples, oftentimes they are so concerned with their guest’s experience (I work with the best people!). If you are worried about an extended cocktail hour or what guests who “don’t dance” will do to keep themselves entertained, there are PLENTY of options with an outdoor wedding venue!

Outdoor Wedding Tip #4: Rent a Tent and Have a Backup Plan, especially in New England!

The truth is, for outdoor weddings, a solid backup plan is a must. It isn’t the most exciting part of my job (who wants to think about a second choice?) but over the past few years as a wedding planner, I have been reminded over and over again why backup plans are necessary. And the truth is? Rain or shine many of my couples prefer an outdoor tented wedding reception set up to something open air. Then, you don’t have to stress about the weather AND your guests can enjoy a little shade if we do get one of those gorgeous hot days. Nobody wants to sweat while they eat!

BONUS TIP: Hire a Connecticut Wedding Planner

Okay, this is kind of an obvious one (especially when you know this list was put together by a Connecticut wedding planner!). The reality is, with outdoor weddings especially, there are so many logistics and extra planning that you just don’t want crushing your vibe during the wedding planning process. Despite what you have heard, wedding planning is supposed to be fun! If you believe that (or at least want to!), I would love to learn more about your wedding day vision. Learn more about Brehant Creations here.