Ten Tips for an Outdoor Reception

• Let your guests know in the invitation that it's an outdoor reception, so they can dress appropriately.


• Enclose maps in your invitations, so guests can find their way.


• Make sure you have adequate bathroom facilities. If the outdoor reception is at home, you might want to consider renting a portable latrine. Many rental places have wedding models, complete with a flush toilet and sink.


• Make sure the site has access to electricity.


• The general rule of thumb for a sit-down reception is to allow for 15 square feet per guest. Do the math, and make sure your tent is big enough.


• If you are having the outdoor reception at a private residence, find out ahead of time where the tent will be placed. That way when you are doing your spring/summer planting, you can choose flowers in your wedding colours and plant them near the tent.


• Offer parking that is close by - it's a wedding not a hike (unless you want a hiking wedding).


• Let neighbors know you are having an outdoor reception ahead of time so they won't be outside with lawnmowers and leafblowers.


• Make sure your wedding site is in an area that won't get muddy or flood if it rains.


• Have mosquito spray handy. Citronella candles are not enough if mosquitoes decide to crash your party.