Having an outdoor wedding in Canada is a testament to your adventurous spirit and love for nature’s splendour. It’s easy to picture exchanging your vows beneath a vast sky, with Canada’s gorgeous mountain landscapes or ocean views in the background. Outdoor weddings are some of our favourites, especially when they take place in Canada (we’re a little biased). But, orchestrating such an affair requires a delicate balance of creativity and logistics.
Planning your dream outdoor wedding in Canada is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities. There’s much to consider, from navigating unpredictable weather patterns to choosing the perfect venue. To help you navigate this path with less stress, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on planning an outdoor wedding in Canada.
Hire a wedding planner
If you want to breeze through planning your outdoor wedding in Canada, consider hiring a wedding planner. They’ll guide you through selecting the perfect venue, sourcing suitable vendors, deciphering contracts, managing your budget, and more.
However, their true value shines when handling challenging situations and devising creative solutions — common occurrences when planning outdoor events. With a wedding planner by your side, you’ll have a seasoned professional to navigate any hurdles, ensuring your special day unfolds seamlessly amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.
Choose the perfect outdoor venue
Planning an outdoor wedding in Canada kicks off with the thrilling hunt for the perfect venue. It’s a bit like embarking on a treasure hunt, with countless gems scattered across the country waiting to be discovered. Imagine standing atop rugged peaks in the Rockies as you exchange vows or finding a hidden forest nook where the only witnesses are towering trees and curious wildlife.
Beyond the traditional choices lie more unconventional yet equally enchanting wedding venues, such as remote islands, historic forts, and even botanical gardens bursting with vibrant blooms. For those seeking an unforgettable experience off the beaten path, imagine celebrating your love atop a cliff overlooking the ocean or beneath the shimmering lights of the aurora borealis in the far north. The options are endless for an outdoor wedding in Canada.
But among these extraordinary options, iconic destinations like Niagara Parks stand out, offering a blend of natural splendour and historic charm. From cascading waterfalls to manicured gardens, these renowned parks provide a picturesque backdrop for couples seeking a truly unforgettable outdoor wedding experience.
Incorporate natural elements into your decor
One of the joys of hosting an outdoor wedding in Canada is the opportunity to incorporate the stunning beauty of nature into your decor. From rustic wooden accents to delicate floral arrangements inspired by the surrounding landscape, there are endless ways to infuse your celebration with natural charm. Consider using local foliage and wildflowers for centrepieces or incorporating elements like driftwood and river stones for a whimsical touch.
Another idea is to let the natural surroundings serve as your backdrop, minimizing the need for elaborate decor. Whether exchanging vows beneath a towering tree canopy or overlooking a tranquil lake, allowing the scenery to take center stage can create a truly magical atmosphere for your special day.
By embracing the beauty of the great outdoors, you can create a wedding that is not only visually stunning but also deeply connected to the natural world.
Prioritize safety and comfort
Another aspect to consider as you plan your outdoor wedding in Canada is the comfort and safety of your guests. Beyond the aesthetic allure, creating an experience that leaves everyone feeling cared for and valued is essential. Think beyond the expected, offering unique amenities like cozy blankets and hot cocoa stations for cooler evenings or refreshing misting fans, bug spray and signature cocktails for warmer days, ensuring guests feel cared for throughout the celebration.
Culinary experience
One of the joys of hosting your wedding outdoors is the freedom to get inventive with your culinary offerings. Whether you envision the tantalizing aroma of wood-fired pizzas, an unforgettable seafood boil or the rustic charm of smores over a bonfire, the options are as vast as your imagination. But also remember to infuse local flavours and seasonal ingredients into your menu, reflecting the rich tapestry of Canadian cuisine.
When dining al fresco, you don’t have to skimp on elegance. To allow guests to mingle, with interruptions, consider having passed appetizers during cocktail hour and then treat them with a sit-down plated meal for dinner. This adds a layer of sophistication and keeps the food free from pesky bugs that may gather around buffets.
Restroom considerations
It’s not the most glamorous aspect to consider when envisioning your dream wedding, but ensuring restroom facilities are available is essential, especially for outdoor venues in Canada. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a park, on a mountaintop, or in a remote location, planning for the practicalities is crucial.
While some venues may come equipped with restroom facilities, others may require you to arrange for portable toilets or restroom trailers. By addressing this often-overlooked detail early in your planning process, you can ensure the comfort and convenience of your guests while preserving the magic of your outdoor celebration.
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