Planning an Outdoor Wedding in New England? Here’s Everything You Need to Know and Consider
while outdoor weddings allow nature to set the scene, it’s important to understand what it offers and what to consider to ensure a smooth and stress-free day
Planning an outdoor wedding in New England offers a breathtaking backdrop for your special day, from rolling hills and coastal shorelines to lush gardens and charming historic estates. The open-air setting allows for ample space to accommodate your guests comfortably, while the natural beauty of the landscape minimizes the need for excessive décor. Golden-hour lighting enhances every photo, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. However, while an outdoor wedding provides countless advantages, there are several key factors to consider—from logistics and guest comfort to backup plans and venue requirements—to ensure a seamless and unforgettable celebration.
Image: Colton Simmons
nature’s décor
One of the greatest advantages of an outdoor wedding in New England is that the natural landscape serves as its own stunning décor. Whether you envision saying “I do” on a sandy beach, atop a scenic hill, nestled in the mountains, or in the comfort of your own garden, the backdrop is already beautifully set. The breathtaking views and organic charm of the setting enhance the ambiance without the need for excessive decorations. After all, the venue itself was chosen for its picturesque surroundings, making it the perfect complement to your special day.
The perfect lighting
Photographers often thrive with outdoor weddings as the natural lighting enhances every shot with warmth and depth. If your photographer has experience with your chosen venue, they may already know the best locations for capturing magical newlywed and wedding party portraits. To make the most of your setting, communicate any standout features you'd love to highlight and add to the photographer’s shot list.
Maximizing Space
Opting for an outdoor wedding often provides the advantage of increased space, making it an excellent choice for couples expecting a large guest count. Traditional indoor venues can sometimes be restrictive in terms of capacity, and finding one that comfortably accommodates a high number of attendees can be a challenge. However, New England has a wide variety of outdoor settings—such as gardens, vineyards, beaches, or open fields—and offer a more flexible and spacious alternative. Not only does an outdoor venue allow for a more relaxed and airy atmosphere, but it also gives you the freedom to customize the layout, seating arrangements, and overall design to suit your vision.
Whether you dream of a sprawling tented reception, a romantic ceremony under the stars, or a grand celebration with panoramic views, outdoor weddings open up endless possibilities for creativity and personalization. Plus, with the right planning, an outdoor venue can seamlessly blend natural beauty with your wedding theme, creating an unforgettable experience for both you and your guests.
The details
With more room to work with, there are some unique offerings you could include in your outdoor wedding to create an experience that goes beyond the traditional ceremony and reception. For example, during cocktail hour, you can set up interactive lawn games like cornhole, giant Jenga, or bocce ball to entertain guests and encourage mingling. Outdoor venues also offer the flexibility to bring in creative food and beverage options. Instead of a standard bar setup, consider featuring a mobile bar, food trucks, or a refreshing Del’s Lemonade cart to give your guests a taste of local flavors.
If you want to create a truly unforgettable moment, an outdoor setting allows for grand surprises that wouldn’t be possible indoors. Imagine gathering all your guests for a breathtaking fireworks display at the end of the night, or setting up a cozy fire pit with blankets and s’mores for a relaxed late-night treat. Whether you incorporate interactive elements, creative food options, or a show-stopping finale, an outdoor wedding gives you the freedom to craft a celebration that reflects your vision.
Gallery: Justin Malphrus
What to consider…
Venue Space
When selecting a venue for your wedding, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the backup plan in case of unexpected circumstances, such as inclement weather or other unforeseen disruptions. While exploring venue options, discuss with management about how they handle sudden changes and what contingency measures they have in place. Some venues offer multiple backup spaces, such as covered outdoor areas, ballrooms, or secondary event halls. Don’t forget to ask about alternative locations to determine which one best suits your guest count, wedding style, and overall vision.
Weather
New England weather is known for its unpredictability, including sudden rain showers, strong winds, or unexpected temperature shifts. If your ceremony or reception is outdoors, consider renting a tent to provide both shade from the sun and shelter from potential rain. Additionally, keeping umbrellas on hand for guests can help them stay dry if the weather takes a turn.
For summer weddings, the heat can sometimes be overwhelming, making it important to offer guests ways to stay cool. Providing handheld fans, sunglasses, and even small bottles of sunscreen will keep your everyone comfortable and cool.
Sunset Time
New England offers a stunning backdrop for weddings, with the beauty of all four seasons on display. When planning your big day, consider the timing of the sunset to make the most of the natural scenery. Take advantage of the golden hour by researching sunset times in advance and coordinating with your photographer to capture breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime wedding photos.
On the flip side, as the sun sets and the dance floor starts filling up, temperatures can drop—especially in the spring and fall. To keep your guests comfortable throughout the evening, consider adding heat lamps, cozy blankets, or even a warm beverage station. These touches will ensure that everyone stays warm while enjoying the celebration.
Food
When planning an outdoor wedding, especially during warmer months, certain foods require special care to maintain their quality and safety. For example, if your celebration includes seafood—a staple in New England cuisine—it is crucial to keep it properly chilled to prevent spoilage and reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Be especially mindful of shellfish, ensuring it is not left out for extended periods in the heat.
Additionally, if you have a wedding cake, it will likely need refrigeration to maintain its structure and freshness. To preserve its appearance and taste, plan to capture cake-cutting photos just before serving. By coordinating with your caterer and staying aware of temperature-sensitive foods, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience for you and your guests.
Additional Costs
Another important factor to keep in mind is the potential for additional costs associated with having an outdoor wedding. Some venues may charge extra fees for outdoor ceremonies or receptions, which can impact your budget. To avoid any surprises, be sure to ask the venue upfront about any additional charges for using outdoor spaces. Clarifying these costs early in the planning process will help ensure transparency and allow you to make informed decisions about your venue selection.
Gallery: Felisha Lees
An outdoor wedding in New England is a magical experience, blending stunning scenery, abundant space, and the soft glow of natural light to create a truly unforgettable day. While weather is an important consideration, thoughtful planning extends beyond just a rain plan. Ensuring guest comfort, optimizing the venue’s natural charm, and preparing for logistical needs will help your outdoor celebration run smoothly.
Read our blog, 10 Common Wedding Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them to learn more about navigating potential pitfalls and ensuring a stress-free planning process for your big day.
A little note…
Hi! My name is Ellie, and I have had the incredible opportunity to intern with SES Events since November 2024. My journey into wedding planning started when I realized that a traditional desk job wasn’t fulfilling my passion for creativity and connection. As I pursued my Master’s in Hospitality and Event Management, I knew I wanted a career that allowed me to bring people’s visions to life, collaborate with clients, and create unforgettable experiences.
While researching wedding planners, I came across SES Events and was immediately drawn to its unique approach, stunning portfolio, and the mission behind the brand. I reached out to Shannon, hoping to learn the ins and outs of the industry, and soon enough, I became part of the team. Each week, I was immersed in different aspects of wedding planning—honing my organizational skills, refining my eye for design, and gaining hands-on experience.
This internship has been more than just a learning experience; it has been a transformational chapter in my career journey. Shannon has not only been a mentor but now a lifelong friend who has guided me through the nuances of the wedding industry with encouragement and insight. Working alongside her has solidified my passion for wedding planning, and I am beyond grateful for the knowledge, experiences, and relationships I have built along the way.
As I take the next step in my career, I am thrilled to continue growing in this field—one that truly aligns with my passions, skills, and purpose. SES Events has given me the foundation and confidence to step into this industry with excitement, and I can’t wait to see where this path leads!