The idea of an outdoor wedding has always had a magical appeal—fresh air, stunning natural backdrops, and the freedom to design a day that feels unique and intimate. But, with 2025 in full swing now and looking ahead to 2026, there are some fresh trends and tips to keep in mind when planning an outdoor wedding that feels both modern and timeless.
1. Pick the Perfect Venue for Your Vision
Choosing the right outdoor space is critical to setting the tone for your wedding. As outdoor venues become increasingly popular, many couples are opting for spaces that offer a mix of nature and luxury – making Chew Valley Weddings absolutely perfect!
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so it’s vital to have a backup plan. You might want to consider a venue with an indoor space or a tent option – for example our tipis – in case of rain. You can also use a reliable weather app to help with planning, but always be ready for last-minute changes.
Accessibility is also a consideration. Make sure your venue is easy to get to for guests, especially those with mobility challenges.
2. Sustainable Wedding Practices
In 2026, sustainability will continue to be a priority for couples planning their weddings. Many couples are choosing to go green with their outdoor wedding, blending eco-friendly practices with natural beauty.
Ideas for an eco-conscious wedding:
- Local, Seasonal Flowers: Work with florists who specialise in locally grown, seasonal blooms to reduce the carbon footprint of your floral arrangements. We have local florists on our suppliers list!
- Reusable Decor: Consider renting reusable decor or going for timeless pieces like wooden signs, fabric draping, or natural stone centerpieces. Avoid single-use plastics, and opt for compostable plates and utensils.
- Sustainable Catering: Look for caterers who prioritise local, organic ingredients. Farm-to-table dining is increasingly popular, and it reduces your carbon footprint while supporting local businesses. We also run and regenerative farm, and work with lots of local suppliers!
- Eco-friendly Favors: Give guests sustainable wedding favors like plantable seed packets, reusable bags, or local handmade crafts.
3. Blending Modern Technology with Nature
Incorporating tech into your wedding doesn’t mean you have to take away from the natural beauty of an outdoor setting. In 2026, technology and nature are coming together in innovative ways.
Here’s how you can make the most of tech while still embracing nature:
- Live Streaming: Whether it’s for far-away friends or elderly relatives, live-streaming your ceremony allows everyone to join in on your big day, no matter where they are.
- Drones: Aerial shots of your ceremony and reception can add a modern and cinematic flair to your wedding video. Just make sure your venue allows drone photography, and have a professional pilot on hand.
- LED Lighting: As dusk falls, LED lighting can help create an enchanting atmosphere. String lights, lanterns, or pathway lights can highlight natural surroundings while ensuring your guests can still see and feel comfortable. We already have lighting across the site, but you can add your own as well as this!
4. Designing for Comfort and Style
The beauty of an outdoor wedding is that you can embrace a relaxed, bohemian vibe while still keeping things elegant. But when you’re planning a wedding outdoors, comfort is key.
Styling Tips:
- Seating: Consider comfortable seating options. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, benches, folding chairs, or even throw cushions on the ground can add a cozy vibe. Just be sure they’re sturdy and comfortable for long periods.
- Shade and Shelter: If you’re hosting the event in summer, providing shade with umbrellas, canopies, or tents will help your guests stay cool. And don’t forget fans or misters to keep everyone comfortable.
- Footwear: Outdoor weddings often mean uneven ground, so encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes—especially if you’re getting married in a field, garden, or on the beach.
- Blankets & Pillows: For evening ceremonies or cooler months, provide blankets or wraps for guests. If your venue is chilly, offering warm drinks like spiced cider or hot cocoa during the reception can be a welcoming touch.
5. The Dress Code: Embrace Nature’s Beauty
For an outdoor wedding, your dress code should complement the setting while ensuring your guests feel comfortable. Couples are moving away from overly formal attire in favor of more relaxed, yet chic looks.
Brides & Grooms:
- Light Fabrics: If you’re getting married in a warmer month, go for light, breathable fabrics like chiffon or organza. A flowy dress will keep you comfortable, and a lightweight linen or cotton suit will ensure the groom doesn’t overheat.
- Footwear: Depending on the terrain, you might want to swap traditional wedding shoes for something more practical. Ballet flats, wedges, or sandals can be stylish alternatives to heels, especially for outdoor terrain like grass or sand.
Guest Attire:
- Dress for the Location: If you’re hosting a beach wedding, guests should know to wear something breathable and casual. For a forest or garden wedding, encourage guests to wear appropriate footwear (think wedges or flats).
- Weather Considerations: Let guests know ahead of time what the forecast is like so they can bring jackets, sunglasses, or hats as necessary.
6. Creative Outdoor Wedding Elements
Outdoor weddings offer a ton of opportunities to infuse fun, creative elements that take advantage of the natural beauty around you.
- Interactive Guest Experiences: Think lawn games like cornhole, giant Jenga, or croquet to keep your guests entertained between the ceremony and reception.
- Unique Ceremony Locations: Ditch the traditional altar and opt for something more unexpected. Get married under a tree, by a lake, or in a vineyard. Your venue and the environment will offer a stunning backdrop.
- Al Fresco Dining: An outdoor reception provides a wonderful opportunity for family-style meals, picnic spreads, or food trucks to serve your guests in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Fireside Moments: As the evening cools down, gather your guests around a fire pit for some cozy conversation. You can even offer s’mores kits or a marshmallow roasting station.
7. Plan for Weather (and Unexpected Surprises)
No matter how much you plan, the weather can always be unpredictable. Be ready for all eventualities with a backup plan, especially if your venue doesn’t offer shelter. Having a tent, portable heaters, or blankets on hand will help your guests stay comfortable in case of rain, cold winds, or unexpected heat.
Conclusion: Creating Your Dream Outdoor Wedding in 2026
An outdoor wedding is an exciting opportunity to celebrate your love in an unforgettable way. With careful planning, a commitment to sustainability, and the right balance of nature and tech, you can create an event that is as stylish as it is memorable.
Remember: Your wedding is about you, your partner, and your loved ones, so make sure to infuse it with personal touches that reflect who you are. Embrace the beauty of the outdoors, and let the natural world be the perfect backdrop to your day. Get in touch with us to talk about your outdoor wedding at Chew Valley Weddings!