Weddings Alfresco

WG: Are you seeing an increase in brides who want outdoor celebrations?

SB: Couples today desire a personal imprint on their celebration. In some cases, a traditional church or ballroom does not allow them to truly reflect their vision. An outdoor ceremony or celebration is oftentimes less restrictive and can give a couple more freedom to personalize their event. Especially if the outdoor location has special meaning to the couple—such as a family farm or lakeside cottage.

WG: Tell us about one of your favorite outdoor wedding celebrations. What made it so memorable?

SB: The bride brought in a photo of glass lanterns hung from organza ribbon. She had found this photo in a bridal magazine and had saved it for years. We were able to reproduce the lanterns exactly for her tented reception, and it was very satisfying to see her expression as she entered the tent and saw the vision become a reality!

WG: What are some of the most creative, interesting, or unique trends you're delivering to bridal clients?

SB: In addition to traditional draping, we are installing more hanging dŽcor and lighting, including chandeliers and votive lanterns. There is also a trend towards clear span tenting, which utilizes no center poles. The roof and interior resemble a building, and provide a more modern environment for celebrations.

Contact Bochenek by visiting Après Party's website or calling 952-942-3399.

Martha Kvanbeck, senior sales associate with AARCEE Party and Tent Rental, gives tips for a flawless day.

WG: What are the biggest considerations for couples who are thinking about an outdoor wedding?

MK: Several factors should be considered when considering an outdoor wedding. Is the space sufficient for the size wedding you are planning? How long is the space available? Privately owned property is the most desirable as you generally can set up a day or two ahead of the event and tear down a day or two after. Many public facilities have short rental windows, making logistics more difficult. Make sure your tent is a sufficient size to fit your needs. An experienced event specialist can prepare a drawing for you to show how your layout will look.

Consider restroom and parking accommodations. Will you need to bring in portable units or valet service, or are there sufficient facilities on site already?

Budget should be a consideration for any event. Get quotes from your vendors before making any commitments. A big advantage of an outdoor celebration over a hotel or country club is that the bride and groom have more control over food, beverage, and most costs.

WG: You've worked on lots of outdoor wedding receptions. What's one of your favorites?

MK: One that really stands out was held at the groom's home where we incorporated the couple's passion and love for horses and outdoor spaces into each aspect of their wedding. Guests arrived to a beautiful outdoor ceremony on a small island surrounded by a moat and a peaceful natural setting. Working with other Twin Cities event specialists, we transformed the couple's horse stable and arena into the dinner and reception area. We laid flooring and carpet, draping and candlelight created a magical atmosphere, and flowers and linens brought in spectacular color and texture. Adding to the whole effect were the horses in their stalls, the wedding cake in the shape of a saddle, and the bride in her favorite cowboy boots!

Contact Kvanbeck by visiting  Aarcee's website or calling 952-922-7233.

Melissa Peterson, a consultant with General Rental Center in Monticello, talks costs and canopy options.

WG: Is the cost of an outdoor wedding comparable to one held at a reception hall?

MP: The costs generally are comparable whether you are going to have your reception indoors or outdoors. If the couple chooses to celebrate their reception outdoors under a canopy, they have several cost options.

WG: What one piece of advice would you give to a bride who dreams of an outdoor wedding but is worried about unpredictable weather, bugs, etc.

MP: Invest in a tent or canopy that negates weather woes. Most of our canopies are rated for high winds. We also offer canopy fans, which work great for moving air throughout the canopy (noise isn't an issue, because they're quiet, too). The canopy fans also help keep the bugs out. Side walls are a nice addition to the canopy—they enhance the overall appearance and also help block the wind, rain, and hot sun.

Contact Peterson by visiting General Rental Center's website or calling 763-295-2300.