While there’s no wrong setting for a wedding, choosing the setting can be a tough decision. There are plenty of things to consider, and this just might be the point where you and your partner start finding out what your true preferences and priorities are. With so much to think about, the venue and setting can feel like a huge decision. That’s why the wedding experts at Conklyn’s Weddings have put together a few pros and cons of indoor and outdoor weddings. No matter what space you choose, undoubtedly your wedding will be a gorgeous event to be remembered.
Outdoor- Pros
The great outdoors can be a beautiful setting for a wedding. Nature surrounds you, often in a garden, on a beach, or in a field or forest. This usually means you won’t be spending too much of your wedding budget on wedding decorations- nature has already provided them! Plus there’s usually plenty of space to include as many people as you like, including children who might need some running-around space. Photography is usually amazing at outdoor weddings, as well. You can’t beat natural lighting for close-ups, and gorgeous sunsets or moonlight make beautiful backdrops for your entire event.
Outdoor- Cons
However, weather can often be a factor when it comes to outdoor wedding events. Between wind, rain, heat or freezing temperatures, inclement weather can put a damper on things quickly. If you’re still hoping for an outdoor wedding, be sure to check local forecasts regularly in the days leading up to the event, and have a backup plan, just in case the weather decides not to cooperate. With outdoor weddings can come a few expenses you may not have thought of. What you save on decor for an indoor wedding may end up being spent on rented chairs, trellises, dance floors and strings of lights (if your big day moves into the night). Another factor to keep in mind with outdoor events is the unpredictability of bugs or other wildlife creeping up to enjoy the festivities. Be sure your designated area is bug- and wildlife-free before setting up for the day.
Indoor- Pros
If staying indoors seems to be more your style, there are definitely some positives to focus on. The basic idea is that with an indoor venue, you’ll have more control over the outcome. Inside a church, country club, museum, or other event space, the decorations, sound system, and climate can all be determined and set ahead of time. For those seeking a way to bring everyone close together for an intimate setting, an indoor wedding and ceremony are the best way to go. Food and drinks can be catered easily and all vendors will have plenty of access to electrical outlets.
Indoor- Cons
While it might be a more controlled environment than being outdoors, an indoor venue will mean working with the space given. If the room seems too large, or not large enough, there’s not a lot to be done about it. You’ll also find that most indoor venues have a cap on the number of occupants. If you’re hoping to create a dream wedding with hundreds of guests, this may not be the option for you. As far as photography goes, your photographer may find their shots more limited and less creative than what they can do with an outdoor setting.
In the end, there’s no wrong way to have a wedding. What you and your partner choose should be what you prefer, based on your priorities. Keep in mind that couples often opt to mix and match. For instance, you could have an outdoor wedding ceremony then move everyone indoors for the reception, or vice versa. This means you have a backup location on reserve if the weather (or other factors) become an issue, and you can have the best of both worlds. Talk to the professionals at Conklyn’s Weddings about your favorite options. We’ll be happy to walk through the pros and cons of your specific desired location and help you make the best choice for your big day.