OUTDOOR WEDDINGS
Above us
ONLY SKY We spoke to local experts for their take on what’s cool for al fresco weddings this season
L
ove for the great outdoors is blooming. After being shut up indoors during the pandemic there’s growing appreciation of open spaces, fresh air and all that nature has to offer. Demand for chilled al fresco weddings continues to rise and shows no sign of stopping any time soon. Luckily, we’re blessed in East Anglia with everything from beautiful coast and countryside, magical woods, forests and more, so the world’s your oyster. Read on for top tips on how to pull off a dream outdoor wedding in style.
The green canopy
Norfolk’s Wellington Wood is a magical tipi venue with a green, eco-friendly ethos designed to tread lightly on the earth. With 70 acres of private wildflower meadows and ancient woodlands, it’s an idyllic setting for couples wanting to celebrate their special day, their way. Owner Vicky Plum says, “Outdoor weddings provide freedom and opportunities to personalise, celebrate, complement and have fun with your wedding in unique, sustainable ways.” Visit www.wellingtonwood.co.uk
VICKY’S TOP TIPS
Images courtesy of www.vickyplum.co.uk
❤ Start with your wedding date and what’s in season – an important consideration for outdoor weddings. Be inspired by the natural backdrop at the time of year and use local produce and seasonal flowers to enhance and complement the setting and your colour palette.
❤ Create imaginative welcome drink stations using wooden ladders, crates and glass dispensers.
❤ Make the most of the space available to set up outdoor seating and lounge areas. Think low seating and pallet tables with a bell tent, stylish cane furniture, rugs and straw-bale sofas.
❤ Add your own special touches with signage, ceremony backdrops, props and milk churns filled with flowers – easy ways to personalise your wedding, especially if they’re portable and can be used for the ceremony and reception.
❤ Have fun with outdoor activities and games. Get creative and make your own or hire vintage garden games for your wedding. Check out Norfolk-based Samphire Vintage Props (www.samphirevintageprops.co.uk)
❤ For al fresco dining, relaxed choices and regional, seasonal produce are ideal, everything from food vans and barbecues to hog roasts and local artisan ice cream.
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