Discover helpful tips and considerations when planning an outdoor wedding in Manchester, including logistics, weather, and breathtaking outdoor venues.
Planning an outdoor wedding in Manchester is an adventure filled with excitement and anticipation. The city, with its beautiful landscapes, parks, and fantastic venues, offer a picturesque canvas for couples seeking to say “I do” amidst the beauty of the outdoors. Yet, organising an outdoor wedding comes with its unique set of considerations and challenges. In this guide, we’ll delve into practical insights and my advice to help you navigate the intricacies of planning a memorable outdoor wedding in Manchester, ensuring that your special day is one to remember.
Tipi Weddings
Choosing the Right Venue: The planning an outdoor wedding lies in selecting the perfect venue. for you! Manchester boasts an array of outdoor spaces, each offering its own distinct charm and ambiance. From historic gardens to contemporary rooftops and rustic barns, the options are as diverse as they are brilliant. A very popular option is a tipi wedding, which I have photographed many wedding in. Tipis give areal festival vibe to a wedding, bringing Glastonbury to your wedding day. Live acoustic music, lawn games, sharing a drink on hay bales by the fire, tipi weddings really are special!
When looking for other potential venues, consider factors such as location, capacity, and amenities to ensure they align with your vision and logistical needs. Take the time to visit each venue in person, familiarising yourself with the surroundings and envisioning how they will complement your wedding day. Additionally, think about plans for the weather, as Manchester’s climate can be unpredictable. It rains here, a lot! Saying that, I have never known the weather to put a dampner on a wedding so don’t let that dictate your thoughts! Rainy weddings = epic wedding photographs!
Good Old British Weather
Weather Contingency Plans: Ah, the British weather—an ever-present factor in outdoor wedding planning. While Manchester enjoys its fair share (some years it’s fair) of sunny days, rain and wind are frequent visitors. As mentioned above, do not let this be a worry on your mind, but to put yourself as ease, It’s important to have a robust contingency plan in place to weather any storm, quite literally. Work closely with your venue and vendors to devise a backup strategy that ensures the seamless execution of your wedding day, come rain or shine.
Whether it’s securing a marquee, reserving indoor spaces, or investing in weatherproof decor, proactive planning will reduce stress and guarantee a smooth transition in case of adverse weather conditions.
The image above was from at wedding at Nunsmere Hall. A glorious sunny day so the couple opted for an outdoor ceremony, and in true U.K fashion, of course the rain started to pour down as they were exchanging their vows. No way the rain could ever stop the smiles on this brides face! Check the wedding here!
Timing Is Everything: When sorting your outdoor wedding in Manchester, timing plays an important role in setting the stage for a wonderful day. Consider the season, and daylight hours when selecting your wedding date. Spring and summer can be hit and miss with he weather, temperatures are normally ok and we have extended daylight. It doesn’t get dark till very late. However, don’t discount the draw of autumn’s golden light or winter’s charm, which are a unique setting to outdoor weddings. Comfy chairs with a nice wooly throw-over sat by the fire.
Be mindful of sunset times and plan your ceremony to make the most of natural light. Later in the day, with weather permitting, it gives us the opportunity to get some photographs as the sun begins to set. We in the business of photography call this “The Golden Hour.”
Embracing Nature: Lots of couples opt for an outdoor wedding as they are lovers of nature. Rustic wedding decor e.g bunting from tree to tree and twinkling fairy lights add a festival theme. From floral arrangements inspired by the surrounding landscape to lovely touches like hay bales and lanterns. Consider incorporating eco-friendly practices into your wedding planning, such as opting for biodegradable confetti or sourcing locally grown flowers, to minimise your environmental footprint and honour the natural beauty of your surroundings.
Practical Considerations: Make sure that your chosen venue offers adequate facilities, including restroom accommodations, parking options, and accessibility for all your guests. Work closely with your vendors to coordinate logistics and streamline communication, ensuring that everyone is aligned with the overall vision and timeline for the day. Consider enlisting the services of a professional wedding planner or coordinator to oversee the details and troubleshoot any issues that may arise, allowing you to relax and savor every moment of your special day.
Outdoor Wedding In Manchester
Conclusion: Planning an outdoor wedding in Manchester is always going to be lots of fun! By selecting the right venue, preparing for all eventualities, and embracing the beauty of nature, you can create an unforgettable celebration that reflects your unique love story and captivates the hearts of your guests. With thoughtful attention to detail and a spirit of adventure, your outdoor wedding in Manchester is sure to be a picture-perfect affair that leaves lasting memories for years to come. I love the outdoors and I’m lucky enough photograph many weddings in an outdoor setting.
