Weddings are a big deal, and there is a lot of planning that goes into them. Considering that in the U.S. most brides and grooms will spend an average of $1,500 on flowers alone, with most couples spending anywhere from $700 and $2,500 for floral elements according to Wedding Wire, it is no wonder there is so much pressure surrounding the big day. In an attempt to save money on expensive chapels and indoor locations, more and more couples are looking at outdoor weddings as an option. If you are leaning this direction for your special day, here are five tips to help you plan the perfect outdoor wedding.

Choose the Venue Carefully

Location matters for any wedding, but especially for outdoor weddings. Make sure you choose a place that is used to hosting weddings so that things can be planned more easily. If you are using a regular outdoor stop for a wedding, be sure you check the location ahead of time to be sure it is right for your big day.

Check the Weather for that Season

Outdoor weddings can be beautiful and amazing, but they come with a major risk. The weather does not always play nice with outdoor events. Check for annual weather patterns, and what the weather and temperatures are like normally. You don’t want to be too hot, cold, or wet on your wedding day.

Consider Attendance Limitations

The number of people you will have at your wedding can also impact what outdoor venue is best. Think about seating arrangements and how easy the location will be to access. Also, think about backup shelter and location ideas in case something goes wrong, so everyone isn’t stranded outside.

Carefully Pick Decor and Themes

The themes and decorations are a big part of weddings, but they may need to be tweaked a bit to suit the outdoor venue you have chosen. Flowers, seating arrangements, decor, and all your other elements must be compatible with the outdoors. Safety and convenience should dominate the thematic planning of an outdoor wedding.

Ceremony and Reception Thoughts

You will also want to give some thought to how the ceremony itself will be done outdoors. Where will the music come from? How will the ceremony be presented? Where will the reception be held afterward? These considerations are important when dealing with outdoor weddings and the logistics therein.

Make your outdoor wedding the best that it can be no matter how big or small of a ceremony you have planned. Follow these tips and work with your local wedding planner to get started.