Then, Louise continues, “Decorate to complement nature. Enhance the natural beauty of your surroundings rather than overpowering it. Use elements such as fairylights, lanterns, and floral arrangements that blend with your setting to create a harmonious aesthetic.” On the subject of flowers, Andrea Beach from East Sussex-based florist The Art Bunch (www.theartbunch.co.uk) says, “When planning flowers for an outdoor wedding, the biggest thing to consider is the weather. Heat isn’t ideal for them, so this can affect how long they last throughout the day. Florists will always guide you on the best options and any bigger structures must have a good water source to keep the flowers fresh. This may affect whether they can be moved, so planning will be key. “I’ll always suggest repurposing flowers, so instead of a big arch structure that can’t be moved, consider something that could move to different areas or out of the sun after the ceremony’s over. For example, a floor meadow can be made in sections using troughs of water, so the flowers will be hydrated the whole time. Use it as one large ceremony backdrop, then split it up for use at the marquee entrance, framing the table plan or placed at the ends of tables for the wedding breakfast. “Similarly, rain and wind aren’t ideal, so there’ll always need to be a backup plan in place in case the wedding has to move indoors. When considering the type of florals to go for, think carefully about whether they could work both outdoors and indoors if necessary.” Similarly, Charles recommends that you decorate wisely: “Choose decorations that can withstand wind and other outdoor elements. Use weights to secure lightweight items, such as your gazebo.” He adds, “Ensure there’s enough seating and shade for guests. Rent portable loos if necessary.” 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.” THROW SOME SHADE If you’re planning an al fresco wedding, there are a few things to consider to keep your cake looking it’s best. Alex Mowforth from Shadow Cakes (www.shadowcakes.co.uk) tells us more: “Firstly, it’s very important that the cake is not in the sun. A buttercream cake only takes an hour to melt when placed in direct sunlight. If you can find it, shade will assist with keeping a cake cool. A light breeze will also help to circulate cool air. “Cakes become fragile in the summer heat, and heavy decorations such as large buttercream flowers or sugar flowers can melt and fall off. Instead, consider natural, lightweight décor like fresh wildflowers or dried blooms. “Fondant is lower in fat and has stabilising ingredients, therefore it can withstand summer heat better, however many people prefer buttercream, so it’s worth discussing with your cake maker whether they can use a ganache crumb coat to help stabilise the cake, or a ganache outer-layer if semi-naked. “Also, think about the delivery of your cake. Since displaying it on a table for hours in the summer heat isn’t realistic, it may be better to have it delivered later on. If there’s a refrigeration option on site you may be able to store it there until it’s time to put it on display at your reception. Be sure to let your photographer know when it will arrive though so they’re ready to snap it looking its best!” Image courtesy of Entertainment Nation Shadow Cakes Elessar Events © Big Bouquet Photography OUTDOOR WEDDINGS 57
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