Thinking about hosting your wedding outdoors? Learn how to do it stress-free!
From lighting to comfort to weather backups, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth, unforgettable day.
Outdoor weddings can be absolutely stunning, and oh so meaningful!..... But there are a lot of things to consider when planning an outdoor wedding to ensure that stress free day that you are dreaming of!
Your photographer helping you party in the great outdoors
Hey, I'm Beth!
the gal behind the guide:
From beaches to forests and everything in between, I have seen it all! So many of my couples want that beautiful and free feeling of getting married in nature. I've spent years collecting the best plans and practices of how to do it successfully!
You don't need to elope to get married outdoors.
Your outdoor wedding can be 100% stress-free
Your loved ones don't need to rough-it to be there.
You can have a fun and meaningful wedding day.
10
10,000+
5
Years Full-time in Photography
photos taken outdoors
years full-time in weddings
Planning your outdoor wedding doesn't have to be stressful.
Lots of couples want to get married but don't have a clue where to start! Let's break it down into easy digestible steps together!
There’s nothing quite like an outdoor wedding. But as dreamy as they are, outdoor weddings come with their own set of challenges, from unpredictable weather to tricky lighting. The good news? With a little thoughtful planning (and the right team of vendors by your side), you can enjoy all the beauty of the outdoors without the stress. Here are my best tips for creating a celebration that feels effortless, elegant, and completely you.
Intentional location
1. Choose a Location That Means Something to You
Personal Connection Matters
Practicality and Accessibility
Permits and Permissions
Venue Support
Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding day, and outdoors you have endless possibilities. Beyond just beauty, a meaningful location gives your day more depth and makes your photos even more powerful.
A family cottage, a favorite park, or a childhood property can carry personal significance that adds layers of meaning to your day. When you’re in a space you love, you’ll naturally feel more at ease, and that shows in your photos.
Make sure your location works logistically for guests and vendors. Consider parking, bathrooms, accessibility for elderly guests, and vendor load-in points. A stunning spot loses its charm if it’s impossible for your people to enjoy.
Many outdoor spaces, like public parks or conservation areas, require permits for ceremonies and photography. Research early and secure any necessary approvals so there are no surprises. Bonus: some permits also grant access to more private areas with fewer crowds.
Established outdoor venues often provide backup tents, electrical access, and coordination staff. While a private property can be intimate, professional venues can reduce stress by offering built-in support systems.
From start to finish, the whole process with Bethany was seamless.
"We cannot recommend Bethany enough!...Leading up to the wedding, she made everything so easy with video chats, countless emails, and amazing communication every step of the way. She is so kind, professional, and truly a joy to work with."
- Samantha & Evan
lighting Matters
2. Plan Around Natural Light
Golden Hour Magic
Avoiding Harsh Midday Light
Ceremony Direction
Embrace Natural Variety
Light is everything for photography, and outdoors, it’s constantly changing. A little planning ensures you get the best results while keeping you comfortable throughout the day.
The hour before sunset provides soft, flattering light and dreamy tones. Planning your couple portraits during this time creates stunning, romantic images with that warm glow you’ll love for decades.
Midday sun can create unflattering shadows and squinting. If your ceremony must be earlier, consider shade from trees, canopies, or structures to soften the light. Your photographer can also guide you on ceremony orientation.
Think about where the sun will be during your vows. Positioning yourselves so that the sun is behind you (or off to the side) creates beautiful backlight and avoids squinting into direct sun.
Overcast days provide soft, even light, which is amazing for portraits. A bit of rain or mist can also add atmosphere — with the right mindset, you’ll have unique and romantic images no one else has.
Lean on the experts
3. Work With Vendors Experienced in Outdoor Weddings
Photographers Who Know the Light
Planners Who Can Problem-Solve
Florists Who Work with Nature
Caterers with Outdoor Logistics
An outdoor wedding is different from a ballroom wedding. Having a team who understands that difference will make everything run smoothly.
Outdoor lighting is dynamic and requires technical skill. Look for a photographer who can adapt quickly, use natural light to its fullest, and keep you looking your best in any conditions.
An experienced planner anticipates issues like weather, setup, or power needs. They’ll troubleshoot behind the scenes so you don’t even notice the challenges.
Heat, wind, and direct sun can affect flowers. A florist experienced with outdoor setups will choose blooms that last and design installations that withstand the elements.
Food safety and service flow look different outdoors. Outdoor-savvy caterers know how to keep things running smoothly and deliciously in open-air conditions.
Choosing the right photographer matters.
Outdoor weddings are some of my absolute favourites — the light, the scenery, the way everything feels so alive. But I also know they can come with little challenges that most couples don’t think about until the day arrives. That’s a big part of why I love being there for my couples, making sure you feel relaxed, comfortable, and fully present while I handle the photo side of things so you can soak it all in.
Just some of the perks of working with me.
Experience-Led Guidance
Vendor Referrals
Timeless Keepsakes
Timeline Building
Unique Experience
Relaxed, Fun Atmosphere
Tailored posing techniques to compliment your unique vibe, creating photos that feel effortlessly authentic.
Trusted vendor referrals to save you time, reduce stress, and ensure a seamless wedding experience.
Tangible heirlooms that preserve your day’s emotions, moments, and stories for a lifetime.
Thoughtful timeline planning lets you relax and stay present.
A photography experience that feels personal, effortless, and true to your story
Warmth, humor, and a calm energy, to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera
Weather plans
4. Have a Weather Backup (That You Actually Like)
Choose a Backup Space You Love
Tents Done Right
Prep Guests for Weather
Vendor Coordination
Outdoor weddings are magical, but weather is unpredictable, especially in Ontario. The key is to plan for it so you’re never caught off guard.
Don’t treat your Plan B as an afterthought. Select a tent or indoor option that feels aligned with your vision, so if you use it, it still feels intentional and beautiful.
A high-quality clear-top or sailcloth tent feels elegant and lets you still enjoy nature. Add string lights, chandeliers, or greenery to make it feel special instead of temporary.
Share your backup plans with guests in advance so they know what to expect. Having umbrellas, blankets, or fans ready shows thoughtfulness and helps guests feel comfortable no matter what.
Make sure all your vendors know the rain plan and timeline adjustments. A smooth transition depends on clear communication, so your team can switch gears quickly without stress.
Comfort
5. Think Comfort for You and Your Guests
Consider Terrain
Temperature Prep
Bug Solutions
Restroom Facilities
A beautiful outdoor wedding doesn’t just look good, it feels good for everyone attending. Comfort creates a relaxed, joyful atmosphere.
Grass, sand, or uneven ground can be tricky in formal wear. Provide heel protectors, rugs, or walkways to keep everyone comfortable and stylish.
Outdoor weddings can be hot in summer or chilly at night. Offer fans, parasols, or cold drinks in the heat, and blankets, shawls, or heaters once the sun sets.
Outdoor settings can bring mosquitoes and flies. Discreet citronella candles, bug wipes, or professional yard treatments help keep pests away without disrupting the vibe.
Portable restrooms have come a long way — luxury restroom trailers with running water, lighting, and air conditioning make a big difference for guest comfort.
Experience with intention
6. Curate the Experience, Not Just the Decor
Set the Atmosphere with Music
Food and Drink Experiences
Personal Touches
Outdoors, nature already does much of the decorating. The magic comes from the experiences and personal touches you add.
Acoustic guitar, string quartets, or even a favorite playlist can bring personality. Live music feels especially enchanting in outdoor spaces.
Signature cocktails, interactive food stations, or local wines elevate the celebration and give guests something memorable to talk about.
Handwritten notes, meaningful readings, or incorporating family traditions make the day deeply personal. These details often matter more than elaborate décor.
Think about how guests move between ceremony, cocktails, and reception. Smooth transitions (like outdoor lounge areas or lawn games) make the whole day feel intentional.
Flow of the Day
Just Breath
7. Trust the Process and Be Present
Expect the Unexpected
Focus on What Matters
Lean on Your Team
Celebrate the Experience
At the end of the day, your mindset matters more than any detail. Outdoor weddings are about embracing the beauty of the moment.
A breeze in your veil, birdsong during vows, or even light rain can add charm. These little imperfections often become your favorite memories.
Guests won’t remember if the napkins matched the flowers, but they’ll never forget the joy and emotion you shared. Keep your priorities in sight.
You’ve chosen vendors you trust, let them handle the logistics. Freeing yourself from the details allows you to stay fully present.
The beauty of an outdoor wedding lies in its authenticity. When you lean into the natural setting and enjoy every moment, your photos will reflect that real, effortless joy.
BECAUSE YOU DESERVE TO DO WHAT YOU WANT.
So, how does this work?
Step One
Step Two
Step Three
Inquire and share your vision.
Fill out the contact form for more information and next steps.
Easy peasy lemon squeezy. Give me the details and I'll do the heavy lifting.
This part is total cake (wedding cake). All you have to do is say.. well "I do".
Reach out
Plan your day
Get married
Bethany was extremely organized and attentive throughout the entire planning process.
" We had a video meet and greet and immediately we knew that Bethany was to be our photographer - she is friendly and welcoming and you can tell that she really loves her profession. "
