Outdoor weddings are very romantic and can provide the natural theme that cannot be duplicated indoors.

There are many different types of outdoor weddings. You can have your ceremony outdoors and your reception indoors or both the ceremony and reception can be outdoors on your own property or in a park. Ceruti’s has the expertise for all types of outdoor weddings.

Some things to consider:

• CALENDAR: Time of year is essential for the factors considering temperature and humidity.
   
• LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: This will determine everything from parking, restroom requirements, changing area, catering requirements, electrical needs, and general logistics.
   
• EXPENSES: Generally, outdoor wedding receptions are more costly than using a banquet facility which includes amenities that would not have a rental cost. A traditional church ceremony will generally range from $500 - $800. You should budget at least the same or more for an outdoor ceremony if you want amenities such as seating, decorations, aisle runner, sound system, etc.
   
• HAVE A BACK UP PLAN: The possibility of bad weather always exists, you should have a contingency plan. Please ask us for recommendations.
   
• ACCESSIBILITY: Make sure the location has adequate parking. You may need to provide valet service, especially for senior citizens.
   
• LET US HELP YOU GET STARTED! Please submit the following general information and answer a few questions and we can schedule a meeting at your convenience.

Outdoor Wedding Planning Tips

TIP #1 LICENSES & PERMITS
Depending on the location, you may be required to obtain special licenses or permits for items such as tents or alcoholic beverages. Ceruti’s Catering will secure any necessary permits and licenses.

TIP #2 LOCATION DECISION
Before securing or deciding on a location, request an on-site inspection of your location by a trained eye. Ceruti’s Catering offers FREE no obligation expert advice regarding logistics and rental items.

TIP #3 HERE COMES THE SUN
Strategically plan the timing of the ceremony and/or reception to consider some of the following questions:

1. Will your guests be looking directly into the sun?
2. Will the sun affect your photographer’s ability to take photographs?
3. What time is sunset?
4. Will you need additional lighting at dusk?
5. Is the path to the parking area well lit for your guests to return to their vehicles?

TIP #4 TENTS & ACCESSORIES
A common mistake is not having the adequate size tent and other necessary accessories such as tables, dance floor, electrical/power, etc. Verify the date and time of the tent and equipment set up. Please feel free to use our Tent Size Worksheet and Outdoor Wedding Equipment Worksheet.

TIP #5 EXPERIENCE MATTERS
Request a list of references from your caterer and other vendors. Not all caterers have the same aptitude in handling the challenges and demands that an outdoor wedding requires. Ceruti’s Catering has the experience and trained staff to deal with the most unusual of circumstances.

TIP #6 BE FLEXIBLE
Having an open mind can save you money and frustration. For example, your desire is to have your ceremony outdoors under the beautiful blue sky watching the sunset. The weather forecast is calling for rain and you don’t have the budget or time to set-up a tent. Go to your back-up plan. Have the ceremony inside the reception tent or facility and let your guest sit at the reception tables. It has been said that the Hindu belief is that rain is good luck on your wedding day!