Now that you’re engaged and beginning to plan your big day, you may quickly find that one of the first, and largest, choices you’ll make is all about the venue. Many couples grapple with the idea of having an indoor versus an outdoor wedding, and it’s clear to see why. Both offer great benefits, but there can also be disadvantages to each option, as well. That’s why the wedding experts at Walter Knoll Weddings have put together this list of pros and cons when it comes to choosing an indoor or outdoor wedding venue. We want you to have all the information at your fingertips so you and your partner can make an informed decision about such a special day.
Outdoor- Pros
The beauty of an outdoor wedding lies in the obvious. The natural loveliness that surrounds you on such a special day simply can’t be beat. You’ll enjoy natural light, as well, which is always perfect for photos. With the beauty of a garden, beach, field, or forest, you’re sure to have a picturesque setting without a lot of decorating. Plus, your guests (including kids) will have plenty of space to spread out and move around freely. Finally, there’s nothing like a gorgeous star-studded sky or colorful sunset to grace your beautiful day.
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
Holding your wedding and ceremony indoors can offer a multitude of advantages, many of which can fall under the umbrella of “creative control.” With an indoor setting, you can make sure the temperature is perfect, the decorations stay in place, and the lighting is just so. The sound system won’t echo and there will be exactly enough seating for everyone. The vendors will have an easy time setting up and using the available electricity and bathrooms will be easily accessed by guests.
Indoor- Cons
However, if you opt to have your wedding and reception indoors, you’ll find that you must work with the space provided. If the room is too large or not large enough, you might find it awkward to deal with. So will your photographer, as she tries to shoot photos of you from various angles and backgrounds. You’ll also most likely be limited to a certain number of people, which can become an issue if you were hoping to put on an oversized dream wedding with hundreds of guests.
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) becomes an issue, and you can have the best of both worlds. Talk to the professionals at Walter Knoll 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.