Outdoor weddings can be magical and memorable for both you and your guests, but they require a lot of preparation to ensure everyone is comfortable throughout the day and night. That's where your wedding registry comes in – a chance for you to receive the items that will help make your celebration unforgettable.
If you're unsure of where to start, we've compiled a list of must-have items to include on your outdoor wedding registry. From shelter to seating, and entertainment to dining supplies, we've got you covered.
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One of the main things to consider when planning an outdoor wedding is shelter. You never know what the weather will bring, so including tents and canopies on your registry is a great way to give your guests shade from the sun or protection from the rain.
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Bugs can be a nuisance for everyone during an outdoor wedding. So make sure to add to your registry items such as bug repellent candles, lanterns, or even a pest control service to keep your guests bug-free and comfortable.
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It's important to make your guests feel comfortable throughout the day and night. Whether you opt for traditional chairs, benches, or a mix of both, make sure the seating is comfortable for your guests to enjoy the celebration.
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Depending on the weather, your guests may need cooling fans or heaters to stay comfortable. Adding these items to your registry will ensure that your guests can enjoy your special day, no matter the temperature.
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Keep the celebration going even after sunset by adding outdoor lighting to your registry. This can include string lights, lanterns, and candles that create a romantic and warm ambiance.
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Make sure your guests have plenty of entertainment during the downtime, by adding outdoor games to your registry. Lawn games such as cornhole, giant Jenga or bocce ball, are a great way to keep everyone entertained.
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Staying hydrated is essential during an outdoor wedding, so make sure you include bar and serving supplies on your registry. This can include drink dispensers, coolers, ice buckets, and barware.
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Don't forget to include portable restrooms on your registry if your outdoor venue doesn't provide them. They're more affordable than you might think and will keep your guests comfortable throughout the day.
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If you're serving food outdoors, make sure to add outdoor dining supplies to your registry. This can include plates, utensils, serving dishes, and a food warmer.
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End the night around the warmth of a fire by adding a fire pit to your registry. Your guests can gather around and share stories, laughter, and love as they enjoy the outdoors.
Including these items on your registry will help ensure that your outdoor wedding is memorable and comfortable for everyone. So, start building your dream registry today and make your celebration a special day that you and your guests will never forget.
Tents and Canopies
When planning an outdoor wedding, tents or canopies are one of the must-have items that should be added to your registry. They provide your guests with much-needed shelter from the sun and sudden rain. Adding a tent or canopy can transform an open outdoor area into a cozy spot where couples can say their “I do's” without worrying about the weather.
Tents and canopies come in various sizes and styles, and it's essential to select the best one that matches your wedding theme. Don't forget to take the number of guests into account when choosing your tents or canopies to ensure that everyone will have enough space. You can also consider adding decorations such as hanging flowers, light fixtures, or curtains to add more character and match the theme of your wedding.
If you're having trouble deciding on what type of tents or canopies to choose, consider renting from a wedding rental company. They can provide professional advice and guide you through the process of choosing the right one based on your preferences and wedding style. Additionally, renting can save you money as you won't have to purchase and store them after the event.
- Pro tip: Make sure to ask your wedding venue if they provide tents or canopies before renting or adding them to your registry. Some venues may already have them available for use, saving you money and time.
Providing tents or canopies for your guests is a thoughtful gesture that can make a significant impact and create a memorable outdoor wedding experience. Your guests will appreciate your consideration and enjoy their time celebrating with you.
Bug Repellent Devices
If you're planning an outdoor wedding, it's important to take into consideration that mosquitos and other bugs can potentially ruin the celebration for your guests. No one wants to be constantly swatting at bugs or dealing with itchy bug bites on their special day. To prevent this from happening, you can add bug repellent devices to your wedding registry, such as candles or lanterns that contain essential oils like citronella, which repels mosquitos and other insects.
If you're worried about the effectiveness of bug repellent candles or lanterns, you can also opt to hire a pest control service for your outdoor wedding. This may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it's a small price to pay to ensure that your guests are comfortable and able to enjoy the festivities without constantly swatting away bugs.
Another option to consider is fan-based bug repellent devices. These products blow a gentle breeze while emitting mosquito repellent, keeping both you and your guests cool and bug-free. You can also place mosquito nets over tables and chairs within your reception area to prevent bugs from bothering your guests.
In addition to bug repellent devices, make sure to have plenty of insect repellent spray on hand for your guests to use if needed. Be sure to place them in convenient locations like near the guest book or by the restrooms.
Comfortable Seating
Comfortable seating is essential for any wedding, but especially for an outdoor wedding where guests will be sitting for a longer period of time. No one wants to be uncomfortable while watching the ceremony or enjoying the reception. So, whether you decide on traditional chairs, benches, or a mix of both, make sure they are comfortable for your guests.
If you're going for a more traditional look, consider renting padded chairs for your guests. These chairs will provide the necessary comfort while still maintaining a classic aesthetic. If you want something more casual and laid-back, benches can be a great option. They can provide a cozy and communal atmosphere for your guests, while still being comfortable.
Another option is to mix and match different seating styles. This can create an eclectic and unique look while still ensuring the comfort of your guests. Just make sure to have enough seating for everyone and to provide enough space for guests to move around comfortably.
- Consider adding seat cushions for extra comfort
- Provide shade if the seating area will be in direct sunlight
- Ensure that the seating area is level and stable to avoid any accidents or discomfort for your guests
By prioritizing comfortable seating for your outdoor wedding, you can ensure that your guests are able to fully enjoy the celebration without any discomfort or distraction. Remember to take into consideration the style and aesthetic of your wedding while also keeping the comfort of your guests in mind.
Cooling Fans/Heaters
If you're planning an outdoor wedding, it's important to consider the weather and temperature. If it's too hot or too cold, your guests will become uncomfortable and it can ruin the celebration. Including cooling fans or heaters on your registry can help keep your guests comfortable and happy.
For hot summer weddings, adding portable fans or misting fans can make a significant difference. Guests can cool off in the shade while enjoying the festivities. If the wedding is in a colder season, consider adding outdoor heaters or patio heaters so that guests can still enjoy the outdoors while staying warm.
Another option is to rent a climate-controlled tent where guests can find refuge from the elements. These tents come equipped with heating or air conditioning units, allowing your guests to enjoy the festivities no matter what the temperature may be. Be sure to check with your venue to see if they offer tents or if they allow external vendors to provide them.
Lastly, make sure to inform your guests about the weather and temperature so they can dress appropriately. Consider including this information on the wedding website or invitation, so guests are prepared for any kind of weather.
Outdoor Lighting
One of the best things about an outdoor wedding is that you can enjoy the beauty of nature, even after sunset. But don't let the party stop there! Add some outdoor lighting to your registry to keep the celebration going all night long.
String lights are a popular choice for outdoor weddings. They're versatile and add a romantic ambiance to any space. Hang them from tree branches or across the dance floor for a beautiful effect. For a fun twist, consider using colorful or patterned string lights that match your wedding decor.
Lanterns are another great option for outdoor lighting. They come in all shapes and sizes, from traditional paper lanterns to modern metal lanterns. Hang them from tree branches, shepherd's hooks, or along the aisle for a warm and inviting glow. You can even fill them with flowers or candles to add a unique touch.
Candles are a classic and budget-friendly way to add outdoor lighting to your wedding. Place them on tables or in mason jars for a cozy and intimate vibe. Just make sure to choose candles that are safe for outdoor use and won't blow out in the wind.
If you're not sure which type of outdoor lighting to choose, consider a combination of all three. String lights, lanterns, and candles can work together to create a magical atmosphere that your guests will never forget.
Outdoor Games/Entertainment
If you want your guests to have a great time at your outdoor wedding, you need to plan for some outdoor games or entertainment. Guests can get bored during the downtime, so it's important to create an environment that's fun and engaging. Outdoor games are a great way to get everyone involved and have a great time together.
One of the most popular outdoor games is cornhole. It's a game that's easy to set up and play, and everyone can join in. Another fun game is giant Jenga, which is a massive version of the classic game. It's a great way to get guests laughing and interacting with each other.
If you're looking for something a little different, bocce ball is a great option. It's a game that's easy to learn, but can get quite competitive. It's perfect for a more laid-back wedding, where guests want to relax and have fun.
You can also consider other outdoor games like horseshoes, croquet, or even a scavenger hunt. If you're not sure which games to choose, you can ask family and friends for suggestions or check online for inspiration. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits with the overall theme of your wedding and is something that your guests will enjoy.
Bar and Serving Supplies
One of the most important aspects of any outdoor wedding is making sure your guests stay hydrated. That's where bar and serving supplies come in! Adding these items to your registry ensures that your guests can stay refreshed throughout the celebration.
First, consider adding drink dispensers to your registry. These are great for serving up large batches of cocktails, lemonade, or even water. They're also visually appealing and can serve as a decorative element on your bar table.
| Drink Dispenser | Price |
|---|---|
| Glass Beverage Dispenser | $30 |
| Acrylic Beverage Dispenser | $20 |
Coolers and ice buckets are also important items to add to your registry. Keep drinks cold and easily accessible with a few strategically placed coolers throughout your reception area. Ice buckets are also great for tableside service or keeping bottles of champagne chilled.
- Rolling Cooler
- Insulated Ice Bucket
- Bottle Chiller Sleeve
Finally, don't forget about the barware! Make sure to include items like shakers, strainers, and bottle openers to your registry. These items not only serve a practical purpose, but they also add to the overall aesthetic of your outdoor bar setup.
- Cocktail Shaker
- Bottle Opener
- Wine Opener
Adding these bar and serving supplies to your registry ensures that your guests will have everything they need to stay hydrated and happy throughout your outdoor wedding celebration. Cheers to a memorable and enjoyable event!
Portable Restrooms
One of the most important aspects of any outdoor wedding is ensuring that your guests have access to restrooms. If your venue doesn't provide restrooms, it's important to add portable restrooms to your registry. These are more affordable than you might think and will keep your guests comfortable.
When choosing portable restrooms, consider how many guests will be attending your wedding and how many units you'll need. You should also think about the location of the restrooms and whether they'll be easily accessible to your guests. Make sure to choose units that are clean and well-maintained, and that they come equipped with hand sanitizer and toilet paper.
If you're having an outdoor wedding in a remote location, or if your venue doesn't have any nearby water sources, you may want to consider renting a luxury portable restroom trailer. These trailers provide all the amenities of a regular bathroom and can even include air conditioning/heating, running water, and mirrors.
- Choose a portable restroom provider that has positive reviews and has been in business for several years
- Consider adding at least one wheelchair accessible restroom unit for guests with disabilities
- Make sure to have the portable restrooms delivered and set up before the wedding begins
By adding portable restrooms to your wedding registry, you'll ensure that your guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience, no matter where your outdoor wedding takes place.
Outdoor Dining Supplies
If you're planning an outdoor wedding, outdoor dining supplies are a must-have item on your registry. Outdoor dining can be challenging without the right equipment, so make sure you include the essentials on your list.
Plates and utensils are an essential part of any dining experience, and outdoor dining is no exception. Be sure to include plenty of plates and utensils, as well as napkins and tablecloths. Melamine or acrylic plates and utensils are an excellent choice for outdoor dining as they are durable and lightweight.
Serving dishes are another important item to include on your registry. Whether you're serving a buffet-style meal or a sit-down dinner, you will need plenty of serving dishes. Consider including a mix of large and small platters, bowls, and trays to accommodate all of your dishes.
If you plan on serving warm dishes, consider adding a food warmer to your list. This will ensure that your food stays at the perfect temperature, even if it's served outside on a cool evening.
Tableware can add an extra touch of elegance to your outdoor dining experience. Consider including items like champagne flutes, wine glasses, and beautiful centerpieces on your registry. You and your guests will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors while also dining in style.
In addition to traditional tableware, consider adding a few unique items to your registry, such as Mason jar glasses or bamboo cutlery. These items will add a rustic, outdoor feel to your dining experience.
Fire Pit
Adding a fire pit to your outdoor wedding registry creates a cozy atmosphere as the night winds down. Your guests can gather around the fire, chat, and enjoy the warmth. A fire pit is not only practical but also adds a romantic touch to the celebration.
When choosing a fire pit, consider the size of your outdoor area. If you're planning a larger wedding, a large fire pit would be more appropriate. A smaller fire pit will work for a smaller wedding. There are different types of fire pits, including wood-burning and gas fire pits. A wood-burning fire pit is a cheaper option that adds a rustic feel, while a gas fire pit is a more convenient option that provides instant warmth without the hassle of starting a fire.
Ensure that you have the necessary safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers and bucket of sand for emergencies. Keep the pit at a safe distance from the venue, trees or any flammable items. Lastly, don't forget to add firewood or gas to your registry list so that you have everything you need.
