When it comes to planning the perfect wedding day, many couples find themselves torn between the romantic draw of an outdoor setting and the controlled comforts of an indoor venue.
Celebrant Isabel Lockhart recently reflected on this very dilemma after hosting her own garden wedding - one that arrived with an unexpected 26°C heatwave.
Though the day was full of sunshine and love, it left several guests pink-faced and grateful for the marquee that had originally been reserved in case of rain.
This experience prompted Isabel to ponder a broader truth: while rain often dominates the weather conversation, there are other elements just as worthy of attention.
The natural allure of an outdoor event
Few can deny the magic of saying “I do” beneath a canopy of trees or beside a tranquil river.
Outdoor weddings lend themselves to breathtaking backdrops, beautiful natural light, and a relaxed, festival-like atmosphere that nature-loving couples dream of.
Yet the same sunshine that illuminates the day can also cast harsh shadows, cause squinting, and challenge even the most seasoned photographers. And let’s not forget the wind - capable of turning a poetic breeze into a veil-launching, hair-whipping frenzy within minutes.
Indoor comforts: Predictable and practical
Indoor venues bring peace of mind: steady temperatures, shelter from the elements, and dependable acoustics. Guests can settle in and focus on the moment without worrying about gusts upending table settings or turning ceremony scripts into airborne origami. For Isabel, these indoor advantages offer a strong case for couples who prioritise comfort and simplicity over spontaneity.
When “good weather” becomes risky business
Isabel’s sun-drenched wedding made her realise just how easily “good” weather can tip into dangerous territory. Heatstroke is a real risk, particularly for older guests and young children. That’s why she believes couples—and celebrants—should treat a “heat plan” with the same seriousness as a rain backup.
Wind can also be surprisingly disruptive. From toppling décor and swirling paperwork to the occasional accidental wardrobe reveal, breezy conditions often go unmentioned in planning guides, yet they can throw even the most detailed plans into disarray.
Smart outdoor planning: Caring for guests in every forecast
Isabel offers thoughtful guidance for celebrating in the open air, come what may:
- Shaded Spaces: Don’t just shade the ceremony. Create comfortable, cooler spots for mingling and resting throughout the day.
- Hydration Stations: Provide easy access to water, mocktails, or refreshing treats like ice lollies to keep everyone cool.
- Timing is Everything: Schedule your ceremony for early morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak heat.
- Clear Guest Guidance: Suggest attire like breathable fabrics, hats, sunglasses, and parasols either on your invitations or wedding website.
- Secure the Scene: Collaborate with suppliers to anchor decorations and paperwork when windy weather is possible.
- First Aid Preparedness: Make sure someone onsite has first aid training. Isabel always ensures she's prepared, but she encourages couples to check whether their other suppliers can offer the same support.
More than a weather chat
As a celebrant, Isabel Lockhart sees her role as not just a storyteller but a steady presence throughout the wedding experience. Her advice? Rain isn’t the only wildcard—scorching sun and blustering wind can be just as impactful. By building thoughtful “plan Bs” (and Cs) into outdoor celebrations, couples can safeguard the joy and spirit of their day, regardless of the weather forecast.