by Sharon Auld
CANADIAN ROCKY MOUNTAIN DESTINATION WEDDING
Tip #11 – Plan for the wind if you are having an outdoor wedding ceremony in the Rockies.
Anytime you are having an outdoor ceremony, it’s smart to consider the wind and take extra precautions. Many outdoor venues are affected by windy conditions, especially wedding ceremonies taking place on a rocky peak, at a lake or an open meadow. If you are having a tented reception, will your tent stand up to wind gusts? Whatever your situation, it’s wise to have an indoor back up plan if the winds get really strong. Even if you don’t particularly mind the wind, it’s important to consider your guests’ comfort.
Not only will some guests be uncomfortable if it’s really windy, but it can be difficult to hear the ceremony. You may want to have a microphone placed at the altar and have speakers set up for your ceremony so no one will miss your vows. Of course, if you feel a microphone stand at the altar is unsightly, your officiant can always wear a small lanier microphone and head set.
As far as attire, avoid light-weight fabrics like chiffons and silks in your dress and the bridesmaid dresses. Let your hairstylist know that you’ll be having an outdoor wedding and he or she can suggest styles that will look great, but stay in place. The men may even want to use a little extra hair product to keep stray hairs in place. You might even want to indicate to your guests in a printed wedding insert or on your wedding website, that your ceremony location tends to get windy and they should dress accordingly.
Also, take into consideration your ceremony decor if the site is known to get breezy. Keep your ceremony decor simple and avoid tall floral arrangements that may be tipsy in windy conditions; instead opt for low arrangements with a wide base. Arrangements in heavy garden urns also work well. Consider weighting down table cloths and take particular care with your marriage licence! A paperweight or a pretty rock work nicely to hold down papers and other documents.
One other consideration; avoid unity candles in favor of less risky rituals , such as a wine box/ love letters ceremony whenever you’re outdoors. An open flame in windy conditions (or whenever you are outdoors) is not a good idea!
With a little extra planning, you’ll hardly notice the wind. Of course, if you’re planning a helicopter wedding on a mountain peak, you’ll just have to make your peace with the wind!
Helicopter wedding via Icefields Helicopter
Windy wedding photo credit: Jessica Oyanagi Photography
table cloth weights via Martha Stewart
If you are wanting to plan a heli-wedding or a Rocky Mountain wedding, contact us, Naturally Chic at 1.888.679.9056 (toll free in North America) or email us at hello@naturallychic.ca. Naturally Chic specializes in eco-chic, outdoor, mountain and adventure weddings.
Unless you’re fortunate enough to call the Rocky Mountains home, mountain weddings are destination weddings. Destination weddings can be more complicated than a wedding at home, and require a clear game plan. Here are some things to consider.
