Category Archives: backyard wedding ideas

BIG Tips for Planning an AWESOME Outdoor Fall Wedding

September 10, 2019backyard wedding ideas, outdoor wedding ideas, outdoor weddingsShannon

Autumn in the Midwest is BEAUTIFUL, which is why so many couples love to plan outdoor fall weddings. It’s clear to see why! The leaves are changing colors, everyone is craving apple cider and hot cocoa, and the season just bursts with flavor and fall wedding ideas!

All of those reasons—or some of them—is a good reason to plan an outdoor fall wedding in Chicagoland (especially during September or October). An outdoor fall wedding is an opportunity for couples to embrace the beauty of the season and totally indulge in the season and the beauty of the outdoors.

Coordinating a wedding during this beautiful time of year does come with a few challenges associated with the fall season—and holding an outdoor event!

Look at the calendar.

Fall is a beautiful time of year to get married, but it’s also full of other favorite fall activities. Think football, fall festivals, and other activities that Chicago loves. Before setting a wedding date, make sure that date is clear of any local events that are marked on your guests’ calendars. (As another option, it’s okay to rent a big screen for the occasion if you don’t mind your guests away from the dance floor.)

Have a plan B for rain.

Planning an outdoor fall wedding comes with the risk of rain. For that reason, it’s okay to envision a beautiful fall wedding in the sun—or under the stars—but have a plan for inclement weather. If there is rain in the forecast, consider renting a tent to provide cover from the rain. If the wedding date forecast is incredibly soggy, add an outdoor floor to the outdoor wedding equipment checklist. A tent floor keeps everyone’s feet dry and protects their dancing shoes. Even on the most beautiful days, it makes sense to rent a tent to protect guests from the sun and heat (without sacrificing beauty).

Consider ways to dress up the wedding tent.

A wedding tent is another way to continue to build a beautiful autumn wedding. There are so many ways to dress up a tent with beautiful fall wedding décor and bring the beauty of the outdoors in: fall leaf décor, fall scents to create an autumn event atmosphere, lighting, favorite fall foods, and all those other beautiful autumn touches. Another wonderful fall wedding idea? Couples can rent a clear plastic tent so guests can see the stunning fall season or enjoy a (comfortable) night under the stars.

Be ready for warm or cold.

Autumn temperatures can range from one extreme to the other. It can be incredibly hot, pleasant and perfect, or freezing cold. Unfortunately, couples can never be sure! The good news is that the weather doesn’t have to put a damper on the wedding reception. Tent heating and cooling systems can save the day and keep guests comfortable even on the coolest and hottest autumn days.

If the weather is really cool, couples can take the comfort of themselves and their wedding party a step farther—and get some really cool photo shots as well! Some of the best fall wedding photos are of the couple and wedding party in warm, snugly shawls and blankets.

How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

May 15, 2019backyard wedding ideas, wedding tents chicago ilShannon

There are almost as many outdoor wedding ceremony ideas as there are stars in the sky. After all, that’s one of the reasons couples enjoy planning an outdoor wedding ceremony; every wedding ceremony detail, from the altar to the chairs, can be coordinated into an outdoor wedding that feels personal.

Tour wedding ceremony site

Planning an outdoor wedding starts with the biggest detail, choosing the perfect wedding ceremony site that fits the couple’s tastes. The options for outdoor wedding ceremony sites are endless (especially in the Chicagoland area) and can be as easy as picturing the wedding in a backyard, beach, or favorite park. For an incredibly unique feel, couples can also choose a sports field, rooftop deck, or an outdoor theater.

Couples should discuss their preference for an outdoor venue and start compiling a list of ceremony sites. Choosing an outdoor wedding venue does come with a note of caution; while it can be fun to browse through online photos, never book an outside wedding site without an in-person tour.

Ask questions

Before scheduling a tour with an outdoor wedding venue, ask the venue questions to narrow down the list to the right one. Ask every wedding venue these questions:

Is the venue available on the date? (Or ask the venue for a list of dates it is available.)
What is the fee for using the ceremony site? What amount of time is covered by the fee? Are there any additional fees that are part of the venue cost?
How much space is available for the ceremony? Is there a maximum amount of guests that can be at the venue?
Is there an indoor venue that can be used for the reception? If not, can a tent be installed at the venue? Are there any restrictions on the tent? Is a permit needed for the tent?
Are there any volume limitations or curfews that need to be followed?
Will there be other events at the venue during the wedding?
Does the venue carry liability insurance? (This can be important in case a guest is injured.)
What is the cancellation policy?
Is there a list of required vendors that need couples need to use?
What is the venue alcohol policy?
Is there parking at or near the ceremony site?
Is the wedding venue handicap accessible?
Are there any inns, hotels, or cabins nearby where guests can stay?

In addition to asking questions, couples should always review the venue contract before signing on the dotted line. Once the outdoor venue is confirmed, it’s time to start coordinating the details that make every outdoor wedding unique.

Make a Plan B

Even if the weather forecast is beautiful, ALWAYS have a plan B in case of unpredictable weather. If the venue has a facility, make “just in case” plans to move the wedding ceremony (and reception, if applicable) to the alternate site. For outdoor wedding venues without an indoor option, consider booking a tent to protect guests from the rain and sun. If the wedding date is in late summer, it may make sense to rent a tent for protection from the sun. For venues with spectacular views, don’t feel that a tent has to interfere with the picturesque setting. Some tents are completely clear or have sidewalls that allow everyone to take in the breath-taking views.

Turn the outdoor wedding vision into reality

The wedding ceremony site is the foundation for all the other details. Now is the time to decide between having the guests stand or sit, what types of chairs/seating (i.e. natural-colored, dark, vintage couches, etc.), details for the altar, whether cover is wanted/needed, and whether to add décor and lighting. Couples can also add an entrance that sets the stage for what is to come. (Use this outdoor wedding rental checklist to ensure that not one detail is overlooked.)

The exact details differ for every couple. For a hot summer wedding, some couples add chill stations with cool beverages or fans to the ceremony tent. If the ceremony is more of an open-air setting, floral décor can add a sophisticated and elegant feel to the setting. An evening wedding isn’t complete without the right lighting that sets the stage for a one-of-a-kind wedding reception. (Don’t hesitate to ask the professionals for addition outside wedding ceremony ideas.)

20 Stunning Outdoor Wedding Tent Decoration Ideas that Wow

April 19, 2019backyard wedding ideas, wedding tent ideas, wedding tents chicago ilShannon

From the wedding venue to the lighting, there are so many details of an outdoor wedding that a couple can control. Unfortunately, no one can plan the perfect wedding weather (no matter what the date!), making a wedding tent rental a ‘must’ of every outdoor wedding.

A wedding tent can be more than just weather protection. It’s an opportunity! This is every couple’s chance to express themselves and create a beautiful wedding atmosphere. There are a million different tent decoration ideas that couples could use. These wedding tent decoration ideas are just a short list of ideas that inspire a gorgeous, personalized wedding atmosphere. (Ask an expert for more wedding tent decoration ideas.)

Before going through the list and planning a memorable outdoor wedding, couples shouldn’t forget about those “boring” and important aspects of a wedding tent rental. Every couple should ask their wedding venue if a wedding tent is allowed, where it is allowed, and if there are any restrictions or permits that need to be secured. (Make sure these details are communicated to the tent rental company or that a connection is made between the venue and rental company.) Once all of those details are taken care of, it’s time to start envisioning all those wedding tent decorations coordinated into a stunning wedding day.

Create a stunning first impression with a fantastic entrance

Add more drama with a beautiful high peak tent

Make a clear impression on guests by bringing the outdoors in

Combine a clear tent with the right lighting and venue for an awesome atmosphere

Bring a natural and organic feel with lots of greenery

Drape on the drama

Add color for a whimsical flair

Or choose a white-on-white neutral tone with a pop of color

Saturate a tent with color and texture

Create the feel of a night sky

Dress up your wedding tent with elegant linens

Add a one-of-a-kind floor for an over-the-top feel

Use a rustic table for a natural, rustic, or vintage affair

Or let them enjoy mingling with comfortable (and fashionable) seating

Make your head table notable

Take a fresh approach to wedding centerpieces

Use formal decor colors to make the evening a black tie affair

Or use a dark flooring for contrast

Or choose more neutral tones for wedding tables with a formal feel

Select a muted color decor with a bright centerpiece for a great first impression

25+ Chicago Wedding Picnic Rental Ideas

March 21, 2019backyard wedding ideas, backyard wedding rental checklist, tent wedding reception ideas, wedding tent ideas, wedding tents chicago ilShannon

A wedding picnic can be just the ticket for couples who want an informal and entertaining special day. Planning a picnic wedding starts with choosing the right location (such as one of our beautiful Chicago parks or your favorite backyard) and progresses to those logistical details that make the day a memorable occasion for everyone involved.

There are a few tips that go with planning a picnic wedding (especially with unpredictable Midwestern weather). For the best picnic wedding, use these wedding picnic planning tips:

Discuss whether you want your wedding picnic to be a large event or a small, more intimate wedding picnic. This decision can help as you decide on the tent size and number of wedding rental items needed, such as the number of chairs and tables.
To make sure you get the wedding picnic rental items you need, plan for your wedding day as far in advance as possible. Contact a rental company with a list of items. Don’t hesitate to ask for ideas for other items that can complete the event.
If using an outdoor wedding venue, always ask about logistical ideas. Is there a volume limitation or curfew? These details can put a damper on your desire for an epic wedding dance. Is there room for a large tent? Can the tent be staked down? Is a permit needed? To avoid any penalties, ask about the regulations that could add stress to your wedding planning.
Always have a plan B when planning an outdoor wedding. The weather can be unpredictable in Chicago, and an indoor venue or tent can be invaluable if the weather is hot or rainy. In the same way, consider adding sidewalls to a tent or climate control.
If the wedding ceremony and reception is in the same location, plan for additional food items and entertainment to keep guests entertained during photos and the cocktail hour. Guests can appreciate wedding entertainers and yard games that reinforce the wedding atmosphere while waiting for the wedding pleasantries to end.
To avoid duplication (or missing rental items), always confer with other vendors, such as your caterer, to find out what items are included in your contract.

Then, use this list of wedding picnic items (and this outdoor wedding checklist) to order the items that make your vision of a wedding picnic come alive.

Ceremony chairs
Tents
Sidewalls
Dance floor
Food service tables (such as buffet tables)
Table linens
Heat or AC
Lighting (event or atmosphere-see options for tent lighting here)
Picnic table cloths
Picnic tables
Coffee service
Chafing dishes
Insulated coolers
Portable bars
Drink tubs
Chill tables
Chill tubs
Industrial grills
Centerpieces
Garbage cans (with covers)
Microphone
Projection Screens
Sound System
Kids tables
Kids chairs
Stage

Your Complete Chicago Outdoor Wedding Rental Checklist

March 7, 2019backyard wedding ideas, backyard wedding rental checklist, outdoor wedding ideas, wedding tent ideas, wedding tents chicago ilShannon

Jen Niedospial and Jake Fuller Wedding Photos, Mandatory Copyright to Glen Abog
6027 N . Drake Ave., Chicago, IL 60659, www.glenabog.com

An outdoor or backyard wedding is a beautiful idea with a long wedding rental checklist. In addition to the “normal” tasks on an indoor wedding planning checklist, an outdoor wedding requires quite a few wedding rental items. The tent (for when our Chicago weather gets too hot, cold, or rainy), the chairs, the tables…all these big outdoor rentals are part of a wonderful wedding atmosphere—PLUS some smaller items (like table linens and cooling) that shouldn’t be overlooked.

This checklist of outdoor wedding rental items can get couples started with the things needed for their special day. (Some caterers may provide some of these items as part of their services. Ask them for information on items included in the catering package.) In addition to items, couples need to consider these important parts of an outdoor wedding:

Permits. Some venues or areas require permits for hosting events, putting up structures (like tents), and even using propane tanks. Even backyard weddings may require some paperwork. An experienced party rental company should be able to answer questions about permits, especially at common outdoor wedding sites in Chicagoland.
Electricity/utilities. Many of the elements of an outdoor wedding need a power source. Some items may require more heavy-duty connections; discuss power requirements with the wedding venue and party rental company to keep the lights on and the music going.
Volume limitations or regulations. In some areas, volume limitations, regulations, and curfews are in effect. Ask Chicago wedding venues about any volume limitations or curfews during the venue tour. For a backyard wedding, contact local municipal offices for specific information.
Staffing and vendors. For a smooth wedding planning experience, choose wedding vendors (i.e. photographers, musicians, caterers, wedding rental companies, etc.) carefully. Prepare a list of questions to ask that ensures they are reputable and professional. This can include questions about their experience, availability, cost, and contract fine print. To avoid an endless search and multiple contracts, contact an experienced Chicago outdoor wedding rental companies that can provide as many items from the wedding rental item checklist as possible.

Wedding Ceremony

___ Signs (to guide guests, if needed)

___ Chairs

___ Ceremony stand or stage (if needed)

___ Topiaries/flowers (if desired)

___ Microphone & sound system (if needed)

___ Lights (exterior & interior, if needed)

___ Tent (for blocking sun or in case of inclement weather)

___ Tent sidewalls (if needed during inclement weather) & climate control (heating, cooling, fans, etc.)

___ Restrooms (for full event, if other facilities are not available)

___ Lounge furniture (if needed)

___ Tables (round, banquet, umbrella, or other specialty tables, if desired)