• Whether your Venue is graced by beautiful large trees or has minimal shade, it is best to set your outdoor ceremony for late afternoon or early evening for optimum comfort on a warm Spring or Summer day.
• Allow about an hour before sunset so you will have adequate light for pictures.   Your Photographer should be able to guide you in this.
• Investigate the plantings in the Ceremony site to make sure lots of things are blooming during your chosen event season.  The colors aren’t really as important as the fact that the garden is well groomed and has plants that you are particularly fond of such as Pansies & Mums in the late Fall, Winter & early Spring or Crepe Myrtle and Day Lillies in the Spring and Summer.  Look for lots of perenials like Magnolias and other trees to be assured of lush greenery!
•  Be sure the garden you choose has something in bloom year-round but especially from Spring through the first freeze (December in South Texas).  Knock Out roses are prevalent and can be found in most gardens and……they bloom all year when we have normal rainfall.
• If you are concerned about grass stains on your dress, you will want to request an aisle runner or choose a site with a “dry” walkway such as concrete or crushed granite.  Keep in mind that aisle runners on thick grass can be a trip hazard.
• Be sure the Venue you choose provides a private space for you to dress and “hang out” with your attendants before ceremony time.   The guys are usually happy with a place to slip on their jackets but some venues also offer a special area just for the guys.
• Remember when you choose an outdoor site, you should always have an alternate plan in place just in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.  Most venues can arrange for a tent with a few days notice but expect a significant amount to be added to your final payment if you choose this option.  Consult the OldFarmersAlmanac.com for accurate weather!
• Most  weddings can be moved inside the reception hall with guests sitting at the tables…..your venue should be prepared to set up a simple aisle and archway arrangement on short notice.
• Talk to your Coordinator/Planner about these and other options so she will be prepared in case of inclement weather.

Outdoor weddings are so beautiful but the weather can be a real challenge in South Texas so check the “Almanac.com” for an extended forecast and plan accordingly so your day will be everything you have hoped for!