surroundings and match your styling to this. If you’re getting married in a woodland, a rustic theme with green bridesmaids’ dresses looks divine. And why not put place names on leaves? The possibilities are endless. “Lighting is an amazing way to add atmosphere and that twilight feeling to your wedding. If you’re on a tight budget fairylights do the trick perfectly. And why not add sparklers to end the evening on a high?” LET MUSIC FILL THE AIR Now for even more fun, think about how you’ll ensure everyone has the best... time... ever! Alice from Entertainment Nation (www.entertainment-nation.co.uk), the UK’s leading entertainment agency says, “Live entertainment while sipping on a cocktail and chatting in the sunny, scenic gardens of your venue sounds glorious. To make things practical, performers will require a flat, dry and level surface for their performance, which will act as a dedicated space for the band or musicians (although if you’ve booked a roaming act, there may be some flexibility). “It’s also worth checking if your entertainer requires a power source, or if they can bring along their own battery-powered amp. If not, they may need to be in closer proximity to the venue itself. “It’s also essential that they have a canopy or cover to protect both them and their equipment, come rain or shine, as you can never be too careful or sure of the UK weather! Remember, your wedding venue and/or entertainment will also be able to advise on their usual routine for outdoor performances.” There’s plenty more fun to be had for your guests that can accompany the music. “Activities are a must for outdoor celebrations,” Ebony says. “Think festival vibes and fun days. If you have kids attending, try lawn games and set up play areas. And don’t forget: always ask your venue what’s included as you may be surprised by the options available. For more information regarding our falconry and activities head to our website.” DRESS FOR THE OCCASION What to wear is routinely something all of us ponder before setting foot outside the house, and that’s no different on your biggest of days. You want to feel comfortable as well as fabulous whatever the terrain or elements throw at you. Emma Boycott from bridal boutique Maria Modes in Macclesfield (https://mariamodes.com) says, “Anything goes to be honest! Ultimately, your dress is your dress no matter what; we currently have a bride getting married outside in Antarctica and she needs her gown to be able to fit inside her snowsuit with thermals underneath and snow boots! But when celebrating al fresco we do advise that you have your dress slightly shorter than floor length, just to minimise the amount of marks and debris on the bottom of it. This is handy too if you know you’ll be swapping into flats, wellies, Converse, Crocs etc.” On the subject of footwear, Ebony has some more words of wisdom: “Take note of the terrain. Is your venue on grass? In a woodland? On pathways. Make sure to provide heel protectors if there’s a likely chance of heels sinking into the floor.” The Bowermen, www.entertainment-nation.co.uk the-bowermen La Beau Fleurs Cheshire Woodland Weddings © creekandcountryphoto.co.uk OUTDOOR WEDDINGS 53 Maria Modes © www.helenrosephotography.co.uk
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