Having an outdoor wedding is an exciting and unique way to celebrate your big day. However, it is important to keep in mind that an outdoor wedding requires a bit more thought and preparation than a traditional indoor wedding. This is especially true if you’re planning an outdoor wedding in Northern Colorado. The best way to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch is to make a plan and follow these simple tips.

Don’t Trust the Weather Report

They say in Colorado that if you don’t like the weather, just wait a few minutes and it will probably change. Although this is true most of the time, even just a short change from warm and sunny to cold and rainy or windy can have a disastrous impact on your special day. 

If you’re going to be having an outdoor wedding, it’s important to plan for all types of weather. And don’t think that just because you’re having a late-spring or summer wedding you’re in the clear. Northern Colorado is known for all types of crazy, climate-related surprises. Blizzard, hail, tornadoes…it’s best to be prepared for anything! 

So, what do you do if your perfectly sunny day all of a sudden turns into a torrential downpour? If you’ve prepared as you should, there should be minimal interruption. So, you can continue with your I Do’s and all that you’ve planned for the perfect day – with just a few minor changes. 

Choose Your Wedding Venue Carefully

Colorado is an outdoor-lovers paradise with no shortage of stunning locations that are perfect for saying, and celebrating, your nuptials. However, choosing the right venue is crucial for an outdoor wedding. You’ll want to be sure that the venue can accommodate the number of guests you plan to have, is easily accessible, and fits with the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Are you looking for a place that’s surrounded by trees? Is located in the mountains? Has a backdrop of flowers? This is your day, so make sure to take the time to find the perfect venue – this is no time to make compromises.

Have a Backup Plan

No one can predict the weather – especially in Northern Colorado. That being said, it’s essential that you have a backup plan in case Mother Nature decides to plan a downpour during your wedding. Consider having rain jackets and umbrellas available for your guests. Or, set up a backup location in case of bad weather. It could be something as simple as an elegantly-decorated tent. It may not be ideal, but when you start to feel raindrops, you’ll be glad you have it. 

Keep Your Guests Comfortable

Planning a wedding is all about the little details, but don’t get so consumed that you forget about the BIG details – such as your comfort and the comfort of your guests. The temperature in Colorado can range from numbingly cold to overwhelmingly hot, and sometimes all in one day. This holds true for just about any time of year. That’s why it’s a good idea to plan for anything. Consider having a supply of mittens, blankets, and heaters in case of cold. And likewise, keep your guests cool and comfortable when it’s unseasonably warm by offering fans, wet towels, and plenty of ice-cold drinks.  

Keeping your guests comfortable isn’t just about the temperature, however. Having an outdoor wedding can often come with unwanted guests (a.k.a. insects). Keep pests like these at bay by incorporating natural bug-repellent herbs and other greenery into your wedding decor. Lavender, Mint, and Chrysanthemums are all prized for their insect-repelling properties. Need something a little bit stronger? Consider burning citronella candles as a way to add instant ambiance while also deterring pesky creatures.

Plan Your Perfect Outdoor Wedding at Platte River Fort in Greeley

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding in Northern Colorado, you won’t find a more perfect venue than Platte River Fort. Inspired by a real, Colorado fort, this one-of-a-kind resort and event venue blends rustic charm with modern luxury, surrounded by natural beauty. 

We have multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception locations to choose from, so if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you have a built-in backup plan. In addition, we also have onsite lodging for up to 25 guests (more if they want to camp),  plenty of free parking, and the ability to customize your wedding package with bar service, use of additional space, photos, and more. 

To learn more, visit our website, or better yet, see our outdoor wedding venue for yourself! Call today to schedule a visit.