1. When scoping out sites for your outdoor wedding, always ask the venue if they have an indoor space that could be used in case the wedding and/or reception has to be moved inside. This will save you much time and headaches if you have a "Plan B" in place.
2. If you are really set on a particular outdoor venue and they do not have indoor space available, consider renting a tent. Call various tent rental companies and see if one will be available on your date. However, they will not be able to hold one for you and expect to be called at the last minute. This will cost you a little more money, but isn't it worth it to still be able to have your outdoor wedding without you and your guests getting wet?
3. Consider the time of day you plan to have your wedding. If your wedding is in the middle of summer, you may want to consider having a sunset wedding or an early morning wedding instead of in the middle of the hottest part of the day. You won't be comfortable and your guests certainly won't be comfortable. It would just make for a very miserable day. Not a pleasant memory for your wedding day. You also could consider large fans placed around the peripheral of the inside of the tent. If your outdoor wedding is planned for the cooler months, consider renting outdoor heaters.
4. Pests. Yes, you must think about those pesky mosquitoes and other annoying bugs that might take a bite out of your guests. If your wedding is in the evening, you can purchase those citronella torchieres which can double as part of your decor for inside the tent. You also might consider having the area sprayed by a professional, such as the Mosquito Squad.
Planning ahead will enable you to rest and relax knowing your wedding will still go on, whether it's covered with a tent or has to be moved inside. Remember, the only real goal for the day is that you get married to the one you love.
