Tips for Planning an Outdoor Wedding Venue in Kentucky
When you find your dream outdoor wedding, it’s something to celebrate. You did your research, toured the grounds, and have selected the place where you will celebrate one of the happiest days of your life. Of course, after celebrating your selection, you will have to start planning how you will bring this entire day to life. Planning an outdoor wedding adds a few extra layers compared to an indoor event, but with the right tips, it can feel effortless.
Here are some of our tips for having a successful outdoor summer wedding in Kentucky:
Tip 1: Create a Timeline
All weddings need a clear timeline: rehearsal, hair and makeup, set up, photographs, ceremony, reception, food, and dance. Outdoor weddings require even more consideration because natural light and weather patterns can dictate photography sessions, the ceremony, and reception activities. A solid schedule keeps your vendors, guests, and wedding party on track while working with the elements instead of against them.
A strong timeline should include:
- Ceremony start time based on sunset/sunrise and lighting.
- Travel time between getting ready spaces and the ceremony area.
- Buffer time for photos and transitions.
Tip 2: Coordinate with Vendors for an Outdoor Setup
Everyone needs to be aligned on setup, timing, and layout. If your wedding is outdoors, the catering team will need to carefully consider when to lay out food so it stays at the right temperature and is protected from pests. Spring and Summer in Kentucky typically mean humidity and possible rain, while Fall and Winter bring cooler temperatures. Our team diligently ensures your big day runs smoothly by coordinating with vendors, facilitating setup, and ensuring the venue is ready.
Make sure to communicate details like:
- Delivery and setup times for rentals and florals.
- Power needs for DJs, bands, or lighting.
- Catering logistics for outdoor service.
Tip 3: Prepare for Weather Without Stress
The weather is one of the biggest factors in an outdoor summer wedding. Humidity in the Bluegrass State is at an all-time high, which can lead to rain or even thunderstorms. However, unexpected weather need not be stressful. Planning ahead gives you confidence for your big day, no matter what the forecast says.
Consider these tips to stay prepared:
- Reserve a tent or covered option in advance so you can still enjoy an outdoor wedding.
- Have a rain plan that vendors are aware of ahead of time.
- Provide shade areas for hot, sunny conditions.
- Keep extra towels, fans, sunscreen, bug spray, and other supplies on hand.
- Choose an outdoor wedding venue with an indoor space.
Tip 4: Plan Evening Lighting
Most of the weddings we host begin in the afternoon or evening, where the lighting drastically changes how you prepare. Afternoon weddings will contend with sunny, possibly cloudy conditions. In these conditions, your family and friends may need to shield their eyes depending on where you place the chairs or you decide to take photos. The good news is that you won’t run out of light for an afternoon outdoor wedding.
Evening weddings will enjoy a gorgeous Kentucky sunset, but it also means you may lose light for outdoor photos unless you have a lighting plan in place ahead of time. From string lights to moving the party inside, you can still enjoy your outdoor wedding as the sun goes down.
Plan ahead with:
- String lights or café lighting for ambiance.
- Pathway lighting for safety.
- Spot lighting for key areas like the dance floor.
- Candles or lanterns for a soft glow.
Plan Your Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at The Barn at Belle Hills
Outdoor weddings are exceptionally beautiful when the backdrop is the rolling hills of Kentucky. However, since the outdoors can be unpredictable, having a solid plan for your big day can significantly reduce stress. That’s why our team covers every detail with you to ensure everything runs smoothly from setup to cleanup.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule a tour! The Barn at Belle Hills is a proudly family-owned and operated Kentucky wedding venue. Our passion is creating a welcoming environment for all our couples.
The Barn at Belle Hills is located in Crittenden, Kentucky, and proudly serves the greater Crittenden, Kentucky, area, including Grant County, Owen County, Harrison County, Falmouth County, Gallatin County, Pendleton County, Boone County, Kenton County, Bracken County, Campbell County, and Scott County, Kentucky.
