It's hard to beat Mother Nature when it comes to effortlessly beautiful surroundings. This is one of the top reasons that so many couples choose to have outdoor wedding ceremonies during the summer. What could be more idyllic than a backdrop of natural woodland or a scattering of stars overhead? To create the most special and memorable outdoor wedding ceremony, consider these tips.

How to Host an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

1. Offer Options for Cooling Off

The sweltering heat of a summer afternoon can quickly take a picture-perfect ceremony and turn it into an uncomfortable experience. Your guests will appreciate having ways to cool off; after all, they want to focus on the couple and on the event, not on the overwhelming heat. Provide plenty of chilled water; have ushers hand out ice-cold hand towels or handheld fans; and designate an air-conditioned place to escape, such as an indoor clubhouse or event venue. If you're going to have a tent outside, rent portable air conditioners to place strategically throughout the area.

2. Serve Lighter Food

A heavy meal in the heat can leave guests lethargic, so offer lighter fare instead. Appetizers, salads, and cold soups are excellent warm-weather cuisine. If you're serving a main course, opt for vegetable, poultry, or seafood dishes rather than red meat or pork. And, of course, wedding cake is a must for dessert, but think about serving it with a scoop of ice cream to help balance the heat outside.

3. Wear Lightweight Fabrics

Whether you're the bride or groom, you want to be comfortable throughout the ceremony and reception. Don't choose a gown or tux made of thick, heavy, or otherwise stifling fabrics. For dresses, chiffon, lace, mesh, and tulle are on the lighter side, while satin, silk, and sequins can all be heavy. For tuxes, linen or even lightweight wool is more breathable than polyester varieties.

Let the Makoy Center provide the perfect venue for your outdoor wedding ceremony. For over 30 years, they have been a premier wedding and event space in the Franklin County, OH, area. Their venue can accommodate up to 400 guests, and their staff offers full-service wedding planning and on-site catering. Call (614) 777-1211 or visit them online to schedule a tour or inquire about availability.