Planning Your Outdoor Wedding to Make a Dream Come True

3/14/2023

Nola’s Events would love to assist in making your dream a reality. Here is our story of how we can make this happen for you:

As a local, Premier Boutique Catering & Event Planning Company, it is a true pleasure to be a part of the planning and execution process of a beautiful, outdoor wedding rain or shine. From the initial consultation meeting with a couple, we know when an event is going to be a special event that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Every event we plan gets the special attention it requires.
During the planning process, we work closely with the couple to understand their vision for the day. Our couples want an outdoor wedding that feels elegant, unique, and timeless, with a focus on delicious food that impresses and appeals to their guests. We love hearing their ideas and find working together to create a menu that would bring their vision to life very satisfying.
Being the creative artists we are, we spend countless hours testing recipes, selecting the perfect ingredients, and designing the presentation for each dish. We want every bite to be delicious and visually appealing, so we put our hearts into every detail.
As the day of the wedding approaches, we are thrilled to see all the details coming to fruition. We arrive early to set up the outdoor dining area, making sure that everything is arranged perfectly and that every detail is in place. If a space is new to us, we visit weeks in advance to map out the area. When a site is familiar, we are able to make recommendations that will contribute to the success of the event.

We plan ahead for the moment the guests start arriving so that details are set for guests to effortlessly park and get situated. We want them to become immersed in the setting and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, the delicious appetizers, and the refreshing drinks. We are thrilled when we hear their compliments about the food, and it is rewarding to see them enjoy every bite.
Throughout the event, we not only work hard to keep the food flowing, making sure that everyone had enough to eat and that the service is impeccable, we also monitor the grounds to make sure that all activities are going as planned. It is very gratifying to see the happy couple and their guests enjoying the delicious food, dancing to the music, and celebrating the special day without being concerned about a thing. It is our satisfaction to know our impeccable attention to detail is instrumental in making that possible.
As the event draws to a close, we feel a deep sense of satisfaction and joy. We are so grateful to be a part of each wonderful event and to have had the opportunity to create a memorable and delicious experience for the happy couple and their guests.

As the event draws to a close, we feel a deep sense of satisfaction and joy. We are so grateful to be a part of each wonderful event and to have had the opportunity to create a memorable and delicious experience for the happy couple and their guests.
As we look back on the entire process of planning and executing the wedding, we feel a great sense of pride and accomplishment. When we are able to bring the couple's vision to life and create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved our mission is accomplished. It is truly a pleasure to be a part of each special day, and we look forward to creating more beautiful memories for our clients in the future.

The following is a list we’ve created to help planning your outdoor event be easy and worry free. We continue to add to this list from our experiences from challenges that arise to the solutions that are found.

Outdoor Event Planning List

Overall, planning a summer outdoor wedding requires careful consideration and preparation, and it can result in a beautiful and unforgettable event for everyone involved. Let’s look at some of the things we know to be important as you consider an outdoor event and choose the right location for you and your guests.

Weather conditions: We in the Pacific Northwest know how changeable the weather is! Make the Boy Scout Moto your own: “Be Prepared”. It seems obvious yet, consider the typical weather patterns for the time of year you plan to host your event. Choose a location that offers shade or shelter if the weather is hot or rainy. Tip: If there is a chance of rain, have umbrellas handy! Or perhaps set up portable tents for comfort stations. As you invite guests and gather your wedding party have them “dress for the weather”.
Provide shade, hydration and in those extreme chilly areas – a heating station or bonfire.

Accessibility: Consider the location's proximity to your guests and whether there is ample parking or transportation options available. Also, check if the location is handicap accessible. Do you have guests with special needs? How can you make the site available to them as well.
Regulations and permits: Check if the location requires any special permits or regulations that may impact your event. For example, some locations may have noise ordinances or restrictions on alcohol consumption. Nola’s Events has a liquor license and is accompanied by our very own bar tender with her magical touch.
Catering and alcohol policies: Check if the location allows outside catering and alcohol or if they have in-house catering and bar services. Let us share with you local event locations that welcome your full bar for your guests.

Lighting: Provide appropriate lighting for the outdoor space, such as string lights or lanterns, to create a romantic and enchanting atmosphere
Natural surroundings: Choose a location with natural surroundings that complement your event's theme and style. For example, a beach or garden location is perfect for a romantic or nature-inspired wedding. In the Pacific Northwest many vendors are ready to create your perfect space.
Timing: Schedule the ceremony and reception during cooler times of the day, such as late afternoon or early evening. Consider travel time from other locations.
Is it a destination wedding where all will be accommodated nearby or is it a one-day event where they need to travel to the location?

Insect control: How will you manage insects, such as mosquitoes or flies, that can be a nuisance for guests. Check with the venue to know what to expect and their recommendations for solutions!
Outdoor-friendly décor: Choose décor that is suitable for outdoor use, such as potted plants, lanterns, or natural elements such as wood or stone. With our experience, we are able to advise about these details – somethings work well and others “melt” or blow away…
Amenities: Check if the location offers necessary amenities such as restrooms, seating, lighting, and sound systems. Do they offer set up and take down or will you need to handle that yourself? Is the area quite so a sound system is not necessary for guests to hear the ceremony?

Power sources: Ensure that there are power sources available for lighting, sound, and any other equipment needed for the wedding.
Capacity: Choose a location that can comfortably accommodate the number of guests you plan to invite. Do you wish to have a private small gathering or an extra-large event?
Noise and traffic: Consider noise levels and traffic patterns in the area, especially if you plan to host your event during peak traffic hours. Perhaps even animal interruptions like cows or other critters.

Privacy: Consider if the location offers privacy for your event. Ensure that there are no competing events or disturbances that may impact your guests' experience if that is your personal preference. Some public spaces cannot protect the privacy of your event. (think wedding crashers)
Costs: Understand the costs associated with the location, including rental fees, deposit requirements, and any additional fees for services such as catering or parking. Also, check if the location offers any discounts or packages for certain days or times of the year.

Planning an outdoor event includes attention to detail. We would love to meet with you and assist you in planning. Contact us today to get started right now. Nola@NolasEvents.com

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