SPECIAL SECTION: WEDDINGS Take it Outside! Outdoor Weddings are Romantic and Memorable, but Careful Planning is a Must

While hosting an outdoor wedding adds a significant element of the unpredictable, it can also be a unique and unforgettable experience for couples and their guests. &emsp;&emsp;A local event planner strongly believes as long as you expect the unexpected, nothing is out of the realm of possibility when organizing an alfresco celebration. &emsp;&emsp;Jennifer Matthews, owner and lead planner of Memorable Events in Keene (she's entering her 18th season), offers some tips for the day to go seamlessly. &emsp;&emsp;First off, it's best to plan at least 14 months before the big day to secure the venue of choice and any staff needed (floral designers, DJ/band, catering company, et cetera) with experience in outdoor events under their belts. &emsp;&emsp;Regardless of the weather forecast for the wedding day, couples will most likely need to keep guests undercover with a tent. It's best to rent one with sidewalls in case it does rain — and it's a good idea to see if the venue will allow the tenting company to set up a few days before to protect the ground. The ceremony can also be held inside the tent if needed. &emsp;&emsp;Hiring an electrician to survey the setup and determine exactly how much power will be needed will save the day from any surprises (like outages). &emsp;&emsp;Having a weather contingency plan is key: A backup indoor space at a nearby reception venue or restaurant is a good idea. &emsp;&emsp;Matthews worked with a couple who were married in October of 2020 in New Hampshire who had "horrific weather" on their wedding day. &emsp;&emsp;"There was a microburst," she says. "There was a huge lodge on the property, and the guests moved inside (and) because it was during COVID, people were worried about being near each other. Luckily I had a box of masks with me and a flashlight because the power went out." &emsp;&emsp;Keeping the weather in mind is essential. Providing umbrellas to keep your guests dry when moving from location to location, renting fans to keep guests cool during summer weddings and space heaters to keep them warm during fall weddings are all good ideas when planning. &emsp;&emsp;Alerting guests in the invitation or on the wedding website that the event is outdoors is key so that they can decide on their attire. &emsp;&emsp;Insects are also an important consideration because, during the summer, they will be outdoors bothering guests. Apart from getting your grounds professionally treated three or four days prior to your wedding, placing citronella candles around the pathway or near your tent entrance can deter bugs. Black flies are the exception to that rule. &emsp;&emsp;"They are out from Mother's Day to Father's Day," notes Matthews. "You can't spray for them." &emsp;&emsp;If the entire day (ceremony and reception) will be outdoors, keep in mind, it likely means all infrastructure will need to be brought in: lighting, catering, restrooms (and signage for restrooms), et cetera, which can add significantly to the cost of planning. Couples will also likely need to deal with permitting, and if the reception site is remote, transportation for guests will need to be factored into the budget. &emsp;&emsp;However, planning an outdoor wedding at home has distinct advantages. &emsp;&emsp;"At-home weddings can be amazing and custom," she says. "People love being on their own property." &emsp;&emsp;As is the case with any other outdoor wedding, there are considerations for an at-home event. &emsp;&emsp;"Make sure you have the proper insurance coverage," notes Matthews. "Homeowners insurance may not cover a big event. Talk to your agent." &emsp;&emsp;Other considerations include wear and tear on the property. &emsp;&emsp;"Put down plywood so the tent company doesn't ruin your grass with tire tracks," she says. &emsp;&emsp;Have a parking plan, such as a shuttle, to avoid further wear and tear from guests' vehicles. &emsp;&emsp;Most importantly, Matthews urges couples to put someone in charge. &emsp;&emsp;"The key to it is having people there who can take the load off," she notes. "We can always come up with a plan."