Sunny Outlook: How To Make Your Outdoor Wedding Worry-Free

So many couples come to Lansdowne Resort with a thoughtfully curated vision of exchanging vows with the picturesque Potomac River Valley as their backdrop. Our team of specialists is here to share advice on how to plan an outdoor wedding ceremony or reception – and how not to let less-than-perfect weather put a damper on the festivities.

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony & Reception Ideas

Unlike a house of worship or traditional ballroom, an outdoor venue provides a blank canvas for your wedding ceremony or reception. There are no wall or carpet colors or patterns to contend with and architectural details or lighting design that (potentially) conflict with your personal style. So let’s think about this blank canvas – and how to make it your own.

Your first consideration should be the desired environment – do you want vistas of rolling hills, golf course views or a quaint garden setting? Remember, these will all play prominently into your outdoor wedding pictures! Next, you’ll want to choose an aesthetic – this will guide the wedding decoration ideas for your outdoor ceremony or reception. Think: An arch draped in gauzy fabric and delicate flowers on our Potomac Terrace for a romantic feel as you exchange vows. Or our Pavilion strung with Edison bulb lighting for a rustic vibe as you and your new spouse dance the night away with family and friends.

Outdoor Wedding Rain Plan

Of course, you have clear skies and comfortable breezes in mind (no one dreams about an outdoor wedding in the rain!), but the weather doesn’t always cooperate. This is when booking a fully outdoor venue is a risky proposition. If you’re thinking, “Oh, I’ll just rent a tent,” you’re forgetting that winds and heavy downpours could still leave you and your guests high and (not so) dry. That’s why Lansdowne Resort provides all couples planning an outdoor wedding on-site with a backup indoor venue in the case of inclement weather – ensuring your big day isn’t a washout.  

Favorite Fresh-Air Foods

We encourage couples to lean into the outdoor theme – even when it comes to the food! One of our catering team’s favorite outdoor wedding menu ideas is our signature Authentic Virginia BBQ featuring a feast of comfort dishes, including pulled pork, chicken with barbecue sauce, grilled ribeye steaks, corn-on-the-cob and peach cobbler, among many other crowd-pleasing options.

Fashion (Right Down To Your Feet!)

Something brides don’t always consider with an outdoor venue is their shoe choice. You may have visions of sky-high stilettos, but they won’t exactly go the distance on a beach or at a farm. Rest assured, Lansdowne Resort is the destination for outdoor wedding heels of any height – both our Potomac Terrace and Pavilion showcase solid surfaces for your stylish stroll down the aisle. As far as everyone else’s dress code, we recommend outdoor wedding casual attire. Remember, a comfortable guest is a happy guest!

For even more valuable outdoor wedding tips ­– from aisle décor to Zen touches – consult with our team of specialists who are ready to bring your big day dreams to life. You can start the conversation here or by calling 703-729-8400.