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20 Creative Ways to Bring the Outdoors into Your Wedding Celebration

314 Exchange • July 21, 2023

A wedding is a special day celebrating love, unity, and the beginning of a new chapter in a couple's life. For nature-loving couples, incorporating the beauty and charm of the outdoors into their wedding celebration can create a unique and memorable experience for themselves and their guests. In this article, we will explore 20 creative ways to infuse the essence of the outdoors into a wedding, from stunning natural decorations to outdoor-inspired activities. 

outdoor wedding venues Louisville KY

Outdoor Venue Selection

Choose a wedding venue that offers the beauty of nature as a backdrop, for instance, outdoor wedding venues Louisville KY. Consider options like gardens, vineyards, beaches, or a picturesque park. Embrace the natural surroundings and let them set the stage for the celebration.

Floral Archways

Adorn the entryway or ceremony space with elegant floral archways. Use a variety of fresh flowers, vines, and greenery to create a stunning natural entrance that will leave a lasting impression on the guests.

Natural Aisle Runners

Incorporate nature into the ceremony by using a natural aisle runner. Consider using moss, flower petals, or leaves to create a pathway that guides one down the aisle whimsically and organically.

Botanical Centerpieces

Replace traditional floral centerpieces with botanical displays in outdoor wedding venues in Louisville KY. Utilize a mix of potted plants, succulents, and herbs to create a lush and vibrant table setting that brings the beauty of the outdoors to the reception.

Tree Stump Seating

Instead of conventional chairs, use tree stumps for outdoor ceremony seating options. Add cushions or blankets for comfort and embrace the rustic charm and natural appeal they provide. Tree stump seating aligns perfectly with rustic and natural wedding themes. The organic shape, earthy tones, and textured surfaces of tree stumps create a charming and visually appealing seating option. They add a touch of woodland charm and can seamlessly blend into the outdoor surroundings, creating a harmonious and natural ambience.


Tree stump seating offers a distinct alternative to traditional chairs or benches for
Louisville outdoor wedding venues, making it a noteworthy feature of the wedding decor. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful and creative touch, as it adds a whimsical and unexpected element to the seating arrangement. The uniqueness of tree stump seating can become a conversation starter and leave a lasting impression on attendees.

Outdoor Lounge Areas

Create cosy and inviting outdoor lounge areas where guests can relax and mingle in barn wedding venues Louisville KY. Use vintage furniture, outdoor rugs, and string lights to create a warm and intimate ambience. Outdoor lounge areas provide a comfortable and inviting space where guests can relax and take a break from the main reception area. With cosy seating options like sofas, lounge chairs, and plush cushions, these areas offer a respite for tired feet and create a more intimate and casual atmosphere. This comfort encourages guests to mingle and enjoy the celebration in a laid-back setting.

Hanging Floral Installations

Add a touch of whimsy by incorporating hanging floral installations. Suspended arrangements of flowers and greenery can transform any indoor or outdoor space into a magical setting, evoking a sense of being in a blooming garden.

Natural Canopy

If the venue allows, consider exchanging vows beneath a natural canopy created by trees or by suspending fabric and flowers from a pergola or gazebo. This ethereal setup will infuse one’s ceremony with an enchanting and romantic atmosphere.

Potted Plant Escort Cards

Replace traditional paper escort cards with small potted plants. Attach personalized name tags to each pot, allowing guests to find seats while offering them a meaningful favour to take home and nurture.

Leafy Photo Booth Backdrop

Design a photo booth with a backdrop of lush green leaves and vines. This organic setting will provide a perfect spot for guests to capture memorable moments and embrace the natural ambience.

Nature-Inspired Wedding Invitations

Set the tone for the wedding by choosing nature-inspired wedding invitations. Opt for designs incorporating botanical illustrations, watercolour landscapes, or rustic textures to create anticipation for the outdoor celebration.

Birdsong Soundtrack

Enhance the outdoor ambience by playing a soft birdsong soundtrack during the ceremony and reception. This gentle background noise will create a serene atmosphere and immerse guests in the sounds of nature.

Outdoor Games

Incorporate outdoor games like croquet, bocce ball, or giant Jenga into the reception. These games entertain guests and encourage them to enjoy the natural surroundings while celebrating the special day.

Tree Planting Ceremony

Consider a tree-planting ritual instead of a traditional unity candle or sand ceremony. Choose a sapling and have the couple, along with their families, participate in planting it together. This symbolic act represents the growth and strength of their relationship.

Natural Favors

Give the guests natural and eco-friendly favours that reflect the outdoor theme. Options include mini potted plants, seed packets, handmade soaps, or personalized honey or jam jars.

Outdoor Bar

Set up an outdoor bar area where guests enjoy refreshing drinks amidst nature. Decorate the bar with fresh herbs, fruits, and flowers, and offer signature cocktails inspired by the colours and flavours of the season.

Nature-Inspired Wedding Cake

Work with one’s baker to design a wedding cake that reflects the beauty of the outdoors. Incorporate sugar flowers, leaves, or tree bark texture to create a stunning, nature-inspired centrepiece.

Outdoor Dance Floor

Dance under the stars by setting up an outdoor dance floor. String lights, lanterns, or fairy lights can add a magical touch to the area, creating a romantic atmosphere for individuals and their guests to enjoy.

Fire Pit and S'mores Bar

Create a cosy and inviting ambience by setting up a fire pit where guests can gather and roast marshmallows for s'mores..

Nature-Inspired Exit

Make a grand exit from one’s wedding ceremony or reception with a nature-inspired departure. Consider options like a petal toss, bubble send-off, or even a butterfly or bird release, allowing everyone to bid farewell in a whimsical and eco-friendly way.

Conclusion

Incorporating the beauty of the outdoors into one’s wedding celebration creates a unique and enchanting experience for everyone. Ceremonies and receptions alike can reap the benefits of nature-made décor. So before you plan your special day, take a peek at these outdoorsy ideas from real weddings. Rain or shine, summer or winter, getting your all-natural, nature-inspired fix has never been so easy (or beautiful)!(1) From the choice of venue to the minor details, infusing nature into every aspect of one’s wedding can transform it into a spectacular celebration that embraces the natural world. 


About the author

Cory Adkinson

Cory Adkinson is the owner and operator of 314 Exchange, a premier wedding and event venue. With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Cory has dedicated his career to providing exceptional service and a beautiful setting for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions. As an expert in the event industry, he has a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence. Cory believes in building strong relationships with his clients and goes above and beyond to ensure their vision is brought to life. With his expertise and dedication, Cory has become a trusted name in the event industry and continues to exceed expectations.

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