Alfresco Weddings
The decision to marry outdoors has become a popular choice for many couples. The three most common settings are wineries, gardens/parks and the beach. Modern couples tend to view an outdoor wedding as a unique way to individualise their nuptuals
Locations
Canberra is such as beautiful city to have an alfresco wedding. The outstanding network of parks and gardens, particularly around the gorgeous Lake Burley Griffin, that is available to brides and grooms–to-be offer so many spectacular options for an outdoor wedding.
The most popular areas include Commonwealth Park, Nara Park in Lennox Gardens, the National Botanic Gardens or the National Carrillion on Aspen Island.
Please follow this link to find a comprehensive list of locations in and around Canberra and the South Coast.
If you have any suggestions for other great places at the South Coast suitable for Alfresco weddings we would love to hear about them.
Please email your suggestions to info@weddingbay.com.au
Outdoor Wedding Tips
Weather
- Don't take the risk - ensure that you have an alternative venue or shelter such as a marquee in the event of bad weather. Always have a back up plan!
- Plan for wind - avoid light fabrics such as chiffons and china silks in your dress and bridesmaid dresses & make sure your hairstylist is aware that you are having an outdoor wedding so that he/she can plan a style.
Permit
- Enquire as to whether you require permission to marry at your chosen location and if any cost is involved well in advance.
Access
- Ensure all guests can reach your location in comfort - consider older family members and any steps or other obstacles they may incur in reaching the venue.
Timing
- Consider timing your wedding for sunset where your guests will see you take your vows surrounded by a beautiful sunset.
- If you are having your wedding in the middle of the day make sure that the sun is on the guests' backs rather than in their eyes.
Decorations
- One of the great things about having an outdoor wedding is the natural beauty that surrounds you, which mean a whole lot less decorating. Visit your chosen location at least a week before hand to make sure it is all in order eg the grass is mowed. Other decorations that you may consider in an alfresco wedding includes an arch or trellis, a table for the signing of the register and a string of lights or lanterns in the surrounding trees.
Sound
- Particularly for a beach wedding it can be difficult to hear over the roaring waves. Plan ahead and if your wedding is larger than a handful of people look into sound equipment.
Food / Drink
- Make sure your caterers are experienced at catering for outdoor weddings and that the food that is planned keeps well, avoiding mayonnaise salads or dishes that must be served cold.
- Consider serving a variety of non-alcoholic drinks and cocktails as well as iced water. If it is a hot day you do not want your guests getting dehydrated.
Insects
- Make sure you have an ample supply of citronella candles or bug zappers so that your guests are comfortable and don't spend the whole time swatting at the air.