Indoor vs. Outdoor Weddings: How To Choose
Let us help simplify this all-important decision!
The Foundry, New York
When choosing between an indoor or outdoor wedding it all comes down to one word: CONTROL.
The fact is, you have more control over your environment with an indoor event space. It's invariably climate-controlled and weather-proof, you can splurge on décor without wondering if the wind will knock things over, and you can display your buttercream cake without worrying that it will melt. You also have restrooms, kitchen facilities, and electrical outlets already built in. And you won't have to swat bugs away or deal with your hair sticking to your lip gloss all night! So if you're a slightly Type-A personality or a bit of a control freak, booking an indoor reception space will offer some serious peace of mind.
Oak Tree Manor, Texas
That being said, an indoor event space really can't compete with the beauty and splendor of Mother Nature! From towering redwood groves to pristine beaches and lush gardens, the great outdoors provides an unbeatable backdrop that will take your wedding photos to the next level. And although there are inherent risks to having your reception outside, if you and your fiancé are the adventurous "one-with-nature" types, there's simply no substitute for going al fresco. And hey, you may even get a little thrill from the unknown—and have some good stories to tell if the elements DO deliver something unexpected! As long as you've got a solid contingency plan in place, your wedding will be fabulous no matter what Mother Nature's got up her sleeve.
If you're still on the fence, check out this list of considerations for hosting your wedding indoors vs. outdoors:
Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort and Spa, Colorado
Indoor Reception Considerations:
- More control over unpredictable elements.
As mentioned earlier, an indoor space provides you with climate-controlled bliss and no concerns about wind, sun, and rain. If you want to avoid coming up with a "plan B", then an indoor reception is the way to go.
- Fewer logistics to worry about.
Unless you're getting married in a completely "raw space" indoor venue, you can rest easy knowing that you've got built-in power outlets, restrooms, and kitchen facilities! Most indoor venues also have nearby parking and wheelchair accessibility. #convenience
- Limited views—and limited space!
Unless your indoor venue has floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook a lovely landscape, you'll have a limited view of the great outdoors. And if you're having a huge wedding of, say, over 400 you may be hard-pressed to find an indoor venue that fits both your style and your guest count.
Fairmont San Francisco, California
- Possible décor restrictions.
Though you may be tempted to dress your wedding venue to the nines, you'll need to ask about restrictions on décor. For example, that barn you booked could use some sprucing up, but you may not be allowed to hang anything from the rafters. And while you love the look of flickering votives, many venues just don't want to deal with the fire hazard. Talk with your venue manager about the vision you have for your wedding and read your contract carefully—you don't want any surprises when it comes to what you can and can't include in your décor.
- Your catering and cake will look good for the duration.
Besides your own comfort, the nice thing about a climate-controlled indoor space is that the food and confections will be kept at an appropriate temperature—and protected from the elements! So set up that frozen yogurt bar, bring on the buttercream, and feel confident that your charcuterie grazing table will be suitable for public consumption all night long.
- Artificial lighting.
Indoor venues that are dim or even dark may rely heavily (or entirely!) on artificial lighting, which means you'll want to be sure your photographer is skilled at capturing beautiful indoor photos under those conditions. Ask to see a wedding in their portfolio that was shot at a venue similar to yours.
The Little Nell, Colorado
Outdoor Wedding Considerations:
- Mother Nature is the guest of honor.
The main attraction at an outdoor wedding is definitely Mother Nature—and she's not always in the best of moods! A beautiful setting often comes with a chance of rain, strong winds messing with your hairstyle, or heat and humidity that gives new meaning to the phrase "sweating for the wedding". At the very least, you'll want to consider giving pashminas or parasols as wedding favors to protect your guests from the elements and keep them comfy!
- Bring on the bad-weather backup plan!
To play it safe, find out what the weather forecast is for your wedding day, make sure to give your out-of-town guests whatever wardrobe and travel tips they need to be prepared, and always (always!) have a contingency plan in place. Just keep in mind that a "plan B" isn't always free! It may cost a pretty penny to reserve that extra "just in case" event space. And while we love a good tented reception, those canopies can be costly! If a contingency plan has the potential to bust your budget, you may want to reconsider your outdoor fête.
- Ask about permits and restrictions.
These unsexy topics are things you'll need to know about when hosting your reception outdoors. A permit isn't always required to have a wedding in a national park or on a public beach. But, if you have a large guest count or want to reserve a specific area for a certain amount of time, you may need to obtain one. You'll also need to inquire about noise ordinances, restrictions on amplified sound, and even size limits on tents or canopies.
- It's easy to keep the décor simple!
A celebration on the beach, in a shady redwood grove, or in a lush flora-filled garden requires very little decoration—which means very little effort and extra expense when it comes to your décor. Natural beauty for the win! However, you'll want to be careful with the enhancements you do use. For example, you don't want a strong gust of wind knocking over your tall centerpieces.
Gorge Crest Vineyards, Washington
- You may need to bring in a lot of rentals.
This can include everything from the tables, chairs, linens, and flatware to the sound system and décor (not to mention other potential rentals like portable restrooms and generators—things you'd never have to worry about at, say, a ballroom wedding venue).
- Nothing beats natural lighting!
While your wedding photographer should be adept at capturing fabulous shots indoors, outdoors, and anytime day or night, I think we can all agree that natural lighting is just the dreamiest!
- Buttercream sweats.
Gross, but true. When you opt for an outdoor reception, you'll need to think about your catering and cake options. Fondant is more durable in hot weather than melty buttercream…and you might want to forgo that cheese platter in the summer months.
- Lawn games!
Use the open, outdoor spaces for fun lawn games to entertain your guest between events. We're partial to giant Jenga (and beer pong, obvi). Outdoor areas are also super kid-friendly, as the little ones can run around freely while their parents sit back and enjoy the festivities.
- Creepy crawly critters may run amok.
Depending on the season, insects and other critters can be unwanted "guests" at your wedding. If bugs are a potential problem, well-placed citronella candles or bug spray favors can save everyone a lot of discomfort.
Chalet View Lodge, California
If you can't decide, compromise!
- Opt for an outdoor ceremony with an indoor reception.
Who says you've gotta go all indoor or all outdoor? If the weather permits, enjoy both settings by exchanging vows outside followed by dinner and dancing inside. Many wedding venues offer a combination of indoor and outdoor event spaces, and a celebration that flows between them provides a refreshing change of scenery for your guests.
- If you can swing it, rent a clear tent for your outdoor reception.
It truly is the best of both worlds. You get the open-air feeling of an al fresco reception along with an elegant enclosure that protects you and your guests from the elements. Bring in stunning floral installations or centerpieces with tons of greenery, and you’ll create that perfect indoor-outdoor event. Talk about sending the romance factor through the (transparent) roof!
Want to find your perfect venue? We got you, boo.
Are we friends yet? Join MyGuide for more goodness!
Some clients may have paid to be placed in our editorial and some of these links may be affiliate; however, we never include a venue, vendor, or product unless they have a proper place here. This is part of our Core Values. We create our website first and foremost to be good for the couples using it to plan their Big Day. We won't stray from that for a few advertising dollars. #scoutshonor