What’s better than a wedding? An outdoor one! There’s something truly magical about getting married under the open sky. Maybe it’s the exchanging of vows beneath swaying palms as the sun dips behind the hills, or maybe dancing under a canopy of stars. Whatever it is, outdoor weddings bring a level of romance that’s hard to match. But here’s the catch: pulling off a flawless outdoor event takes more than a pretty view and good weather.
You’ve probably seen the dreamy Pinterest boards and Instagram-perfect receptions, but what those don’t show you are the planning missteps that can derail the big day: overheated guests, missing sound equipment, unexpected wind gusts, or a reception space that looked way better in theory than it does under a blazing sun. That’s where we come in. If you’re planning a wedding in Riverside or anywhere in sunny Southern California, these outdoor wedding planning tips will help you create a celebration that’s not only stunning but comfortable, functional, and unforgettable. Here’s what you need to know:
Pick the Right Location
When you’re planning an outdoor wedding, the most crucial part is picking the right venue. Jurupa Valley, Riverside, and the surrounding areas offer incredible outdoor spaces such as estate gardens and vineyard patios, but as dreamy as these spots are, each comes with its own set of logistics.
Before you commit, walk the space and take note of key factors: Where will guests park? Is the ground level enough for tables and tents? What’s your plan for restrooms, power access, and lighting? Understanding your location’s limitations early on gives you the power to fix them before they turn into issues. That’s where a partner like Mary’s Party Rentals becomes essential, as they offer everything from high-end tenting to dance floors that turn uneven lawns into elegant venues.
Pro Tip: If you boast about having a huge backyard, then don’t overlook it while picking a venue. Sometimes the best things are right under our noses.
Build a Weather-Resilient Setup
If you want the perfect wedding, then you need to plan everything and that means even the unexpected like bad weather. While yes, Riverside is blessed with sunshine most of the year, but that doesn’t mean you can go without a backup plan. Even a slight breeze can turn your table settings into a game of 52-card pickup if you’re not prepared.
One of the most important outdoor wedding planning tips is to respect the elements. Invest in a tent with sidewalls for sun protection and possible winds. Offer shaded lounge areas with umbrellas or canopies so guests don’t melt in their formalwear. And when the sun sets? Outdoor heaters and subtle lighting will keep the celebration going without your guests grabbing their coats early.
Think Flow of the Wedding Layout
It’s easy to get caught up in what you want, like a boho lounge here, a flower arch there. But the real magic comes from how everything flows together. Outdoor weddings need a natural rhythm. You want people to be able to move from the ceremony to cocktails to dinner and dancing without bumping into buffet tables or feeling lost in a wide-open space.
Start with a layout. Define each area clearly with the right rentals. You could use rugs to create pathways, lounge furniture to anchor conversation zones, and strategically place lighting to guide the way as evening falls. For that, you need to pick the right wedding rental partners like Mary’s Party Rentals. We can help you visualize the flow of the event and provide premium furniture, custom layouts, and upscale finishes that elevate the entire experience.
Upgrade the Guest Experience
When you’re hosting an outdoor wedding, it’s the thoughtful extras that guests remember. Provide a hydration station during cocktail hour, keep restrooms stocked and accessible, and make sure there are plenty of shaded areas for guests of all ages. Add personalized fans, parasols, or even comfy shoe baskets for those who ditched their heels on the lawn.
Another often overlooked outdoor wedding planning tip? Sound. Don’t rely on basic speakers—open spaces absorb sound in weird ways. Rent a proper sound system, and if you’re bringing in a DJ or live music, ask your rental provider for staging and setup support.
Set the Mood After Dark
One of the best parts of an outdoor wedding? You don’t have to end when the sun goes down. In fact, some of the most magical moments happen at night if you pair them with the right ambiance. Think soft lighting, candles, and twinkling string lights overhead. But ambiance doesn’t just appear. You need to design it first.
From LED up-lighting to vintage lanterns to luxe chandeliers under tent ceilings, lighting sets the tone and creates a space guests want to stay in. Work with your rental company to create zones that feel cozy, romantic, and safe.
Trust the Pros, So You Can Be Present
At the end of the day, a wedding is about joy, love, and being surrounded by people who matter most. When you work with experienced vendors, you don’t just get tables and chairs. but rather the peace of mind on your special day.
Apart from these excellent outdoor wedding planning tips, Mary’s Party Rentals provides premium solutions and hands-on support for Riverside couples who want style, reliability, and service that matches the importance of the day.
If you’re planning a high-end wedding in Riverside or nearby, we’re your trusted partner to help you bring it all to life. Get in touch to learn how we can make your special day EXTRA SPECIAL.