Tips for planning an outdoor wedding in Edmonton’s unpredictable weather

outdoor wedding setup at the AgaKhan Botanical Gardens located just outside of Edmonton

Planning an outdoor wedding in Edmonton can be a ‘challenging task’. The city’s unpredictable weather can quickly turn a beautiful ‘sunny day’ into a ‘stormy one’. With the right planning and preparation, you can still have the outdoor wedding of your dreams.

Choose the Right Venue

One of the most critical aspects of planning an outdoor wedding in Edmonton is: choosing the right venue! You need to look for venues that offer: indoor and outdoor options. This is so you have a backup plan in case the weather turns bad.

Art Gallery of Alberta: This beautiful venue offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for your wedding.

Royal Glenora Club: This venue has several outdoor ceremony locations, along with indoor reception spaces.

Edmonton Country Club: This venue offers a stunning outdoor ceremony space, and several indoor reception options.

Prepare for the Weather

An outdoor wedding in Edmonton can be a beautiful and memorable experience for everyone involved. However, with the unpredictable weather, it’s crucial to prepare for all eventualities.

Have a Backup Plan

  • Always have a backup plan in case of bad weather.
  • Renting a tent can provide shelter for you and your guests.
  • Choose a venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces to ensure you have options.

Keep Your Guests Comfortable

  • Provide shade and plenty of water for summer weddings.
  • Provide blankets or heaters for fall and winter weddings.
  • Ensure your guests are comfortable throughout the event.

Comfort is key when it comes to outdoor weddings in Edmonton. If you’re getting married in the summer, make sure to provide shade and plenty of water for your guests. This can include renting umbrellas, providing fans or misters. Or even having a water station set up. For fall and winter weddings, provide blankets or heaters to keep your guests warm. You can rent outdoor heaters or even offer blankets as wedding favors. Make sure to choose comfortable seating options, such as padded chairs or benches, and provide ample lighting for evening weddings.

Consider Your Attire

Dress appropriately for the weather.

Choose lightweight fabrics for hot weather.
Add layers for cold weather.
When planning an outdoor wedding in Edmonton, it’s essential to consider your attire and the attire of your bridal party. You want to be:

  • Comfortable and prepared for the weather.
  • If it’s going to be hot, choose lightweight fabrics that breathe. This can help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day.
  • If it’s going to be cold, consider adding layers to your outfit
  • You can also choose bridesmaid dresses with long sleeves.
  • Or add a shawl to your wedding gown.

Make sure to choose appropriate footwear as well. Especially if the ground is wet or muddy.
Other Tips for Preparing for the Weather

  • Communicate with your vendors.
  • Test the sound system.
  • Consider the wind.
  • Have a plan for cleanup.

There are a few other things to keep in mind when preparing for the weather at your outdoor wedding in Edmonton.
First, make sure to communicate with your vendors and let them know that you’re having an outdoor wedding. This can help them prepare for any potential weather-related issues.

Second, test the sound system beforehand to ensure that everyone can hear the ceremony and speeches. This can be especially important in windy conditions.

Third, consider the wind and how it might affect your decor and attire. Make sure everything is secure and won’t blow away in the wind.

Finally, have a plan for cleanup after the event. This can include renting a dumpster or hiring a cleaning crew to ensure that the area is left clean and tidy.

Hire an Edmonton Wedding Photographer

Having an Edmonton wedding photographer is essential for capturing your special day. When hiring a photographer, look for someone who has experience.

Look at their portfolio: Make sure the photographer has experience shooting outdoor weddings and check their portfolio to see if their style matches your vision.

Check reviews: Look for reviews from previous clients to see what they have to say about their experience with the photographer.

Meet with them: Schedule a meeting with the photographer to see if you have a connection and feel comfortable working with them.

Consider the Time of Day

The time of day can have a significant impact on your outdoor wedding in Edmonton.
Lighting: The lighting can have a significant impact on your photos, so consider the time of day when the light is best for outdoor photography.

Heat: If you’re getting married in the summer, consider having your ceremony in the late afternoon or early evening when the temperature is cooler.

Bugs: If you’re getting married in the evening, be prepared for bugs, and provide bug spray for your guests.

Have a Contingency Plan

Despite all your planning and preparation, the weather can still surprise you! It’s always a good idea to have a contingency-plan in case of ‘severe weather’.

Have a backup location: If you’re having an outdoor wedding, make sure you have an indoor backup location in case of severe weather.

Rent a tent: Renting a tent can be a great way to protect you and your guests from the elements.
Have a rain plan: If you’re getting married during the rainy season, consider having a rain plan and provide umbrellas for your guests.

In Conclusion

Planning an outdoor wedding in Edmonton’s unpredictable weather can be challenging. It’s not impossible. With careful planning and preparation, you can still have the wedding of your dreams.

Communicate with your vendors: Make sure your vendors are aware that you’re having an outdoor wedding, and discuss the contingency plan with them.

Test the sound system: Outdoor weddings can be challenging when it comes to sound. Make sure to test the sound system beforehand to ensure that everyone can hear the ceremony and speeches.

Consider the wind: Edmonton can be windy, so make sure to secure all decorations and rental items properly.
Have a plan for cleanup: If you’re having an outdoor wedding, make sure to have a plan for cleaning up after the event. This could include renting a dumpster or hiring a cleaning crew.

In conclusion, planning an outdoor wedding in Edmonton’s unpredictable weather requires careful planning and preparation. Choosing the right venue, preparing for the weather, hiring an Edmonton wedding photographer, considering the time of day, and having a contingency plan are all essential elements of planning an outdoor wedding in Edmonton.

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