Organizing An Outdoor Or Poolside Wedding Reception

A poolside wedding reception, or a wedding on the beach or in beautiful grounds offers you tremendous possibilities to create a unique and festive atmosphere for a reasonable cost. In fact almost any scenic outdoor location offers you potential for your reception - including your own back yard!

If you choose to host your wedding party on the beach, by the pool or anywhere outside, it's important to work to a detailed plan and to be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.

You should start with a thorough 'to-do' list when planning an outdoor reception because this will keep your affairs in order. When creating your list, you have to consider having a contingency plan. The reason for this is to accommodate bad weather conditions that may prohibit your reception from taking place at all -- or having your reception ruined due to a thunderstorm or severe winds.

Here is a sample to do list for you to work from -- it's not exhaustive but will guide you towards some of the main areas to consider.

• Renting a tent or gazebo and decorating it. Make sure that you confirm your rental date at least two weeks ahead of time or sooner if you can.
• Renting tables and chairs. It is cheaper when you set them up yourself.
• Getting regular updates on the weather. Of course, you should have a contingency plan just in case the weather does not permit an outdoor party.
• Getting any miscellaneous items such as extension cords etc.
• Hiring a DJ or band and confirming their booking
• Planning for simple food and drink ideas and agreeing who will prepare which items
• Getting permits that may be required in serving alcohol
• Getting permission from neighbors when you are hosting your outdoor reception in your backyard. You don't want them complaining about the noise and the parking situation -- so why not invite them too!

The success of any outdoor wedding reception depends in large part on the effort made at the planning stage: ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable party for your guests (and you) requires attention to detail and anticipation of problems.

Having an outdoor reception? Read some Simple Wedding Reception Ideas For Serving Food Outside .

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