Outdoor Wedding Venues for Hire in London

Outdoor Wedding Venues Hire Guide

We're here to make sure you find the perfect outdoor wedding venue in London to tie the knot, whether you’re after a charming terrace, quaint courtyard or gorgeous riverside spot. Is there anything more romantic than an outdoor wedding? On the other hand, there’s a significant amount of legwork and orchestration that goes into organising an al fresco celebration. While pretty scenery and natural landscapes mean you can embrace a less-is-more approach when it comes to decorating your space, you may need to hire in generators, lights, flooring, portable toilets and kitchen equipment.

When it comes to organising any wedding, the most important thing is to plan ahead. Start your preparations at least 9 months to a year in advance. That way you will have some time to decide on the venue and book the musicians/DJs, invite the guests, and finalise the menu. Also, you can figure out the decor and theme for the wedding. You can hire a wedding decor expert, do the decorations yourself, or let the venue handle this. Here’s some more helpful tips for organising an outdoor wedding:

• Prepare your guest list in advance. This is an important step toward setting a budget. What’s more, it’s always better to send the invitations as soon as possible. Summer is the peak season for both outdoor weddings and travelling, so don’t forget many of your guests will be going away.
• Don’t forget the London weather can be a bit unpredictable. Definitely check the weather forecast a couple days before the wedding. Remember to make a contingency plan for bad weather. Prepare some activities in the indoor space that will come with the venue in case the rain starts pouring down. Regardless of the weather, it’s nice if the venue has a roofed dining area, which will protect the guests from the summer sun, as well as dreary British weather.
• Consider whether to provide a dress code. Are you more about black tie, cocktail attire or smart casual? Or how about a fancy dress party with a cool theme? Before you send out your invitations you should have every little detail planned out so that no one gets surprised on the big day.
• Ask what’s included in the price and hire out the rest. Good communication with your venue manager is key to making your wedding planning process easy and stress-free. Make a checklist of what is included with your outdoor wedding venue - catering, music, alcohol and tents/indoor dining space, and make sure to get the rest right after you finalise your booking.

What to consider when hiring an outdoor wedding venue in London:

• The location - In order to have a good experience, you have to think of how everyone would want to commute to your party. It’s fairly common for everyone to drive to the venue themselves (especially if it’s on the outskirts of Greater London), but taking the local tube and bus connections into consideration would be a smart approach.
• The time of your event - Try to schedule your ceremony after the hottest part of the day so the sun won’t be too strong for your guests. If you’re organising your wedding in the middle of the summer, it could be too hot to function for you and your guests.
  
• The lighting - Your outdoor wedding reception will probably carry on into the evening, so don’t forget about providing enough light after the sun goes down! Our favourite options include cute candles in glass jars, fairy lights and vintage light bulbs. What’s your favourite?
• Catering options and licences - Check whether the venue has an alcohol licence and ask what time they have to stop serving drinks. Make sure they can cater to special dietary requirements (such as vegan, halal or kosher).
• Disabled access - This one is particularly important if you’re inviting people with limited mobility. If that’s the case, make sure your outdoor wedding venue is able to cater to their needs. Make sure the space is wheelchair accessible and easy to traverse for those who might have difficulty walking.

Trends to incorporate into your outdoor wedding in 2022:

• Wedding websites have become a very useful and interesting alternative to invitation cards or Facebook events. Buy a memorable domain for a couple months, make a simple, yet beautiful website with the venue information, the menu, and the dates. Include the bride and groom’s contact info so that the guests can RSVP to the wedding.
• Boat weddings are an extravagant way to get married. The Thames offers the best view of the most iconic areas of London, so why not get a tour of the city while celebrating your wedding?
• Bright colours are so in-fashion this year for wedding outfits and decorations. Show some character by incorporating light blues and bold oranges to your decor or flower arrangements. You can even match them with some earthy neutral colours to finish the look.

Crafting Your Outdoor Aesthetic: Décor and Design Tips

Your wedding décor sets the tone for your outdoor celebration, enhancing the natural beauty of your chosen venue and reflecting your unique style as a couple. From rustic charm to modern elegance, here are some tips to help you craft the perfect outdoor aesthetic for your special day.

1. Embrace Nature-Inspired Elements:

   - Incorporate natural elements such as flowers, greenery, and wood to complement the outdoor setting.

   - Opt for seasonal blooms and foliage to add colour and texture to your décor.

   - Consider using driftwood, branches, or stones as rustic accents for a whimsical touch.

2. Define Your Wedding Style:

   - Determine the overall style or theme of your wedding, whether it's bohemian, vintage, or contemporary.

   - Choose décor elements that reflect your taste and complement the atmosphere of your outdoor venue.

   - Experiment with different colour palettes, textures, and patterns to create a cohesive look that speaks to your aesthetic.

3. Create Ambiance with Lighting:

   - Utilise lighting to enhance the mood and atmosphere of your outdoor celebration.

   - Incorporate string lights, lanterns, or candles to add warmth and romance to your venue.

   - Consider using uplighting or spotlights to highlight your outdoor space's architectural features or focal points.

4. Personalise Your Décor:

   - Infuse your personality and love story into your wedding décor with personalised touches.

   - Display photos, quotes, or mementoes that hold special meaning to you as a couple.

   - Incorporate elements that reflect your interests, hobbies, or cultural background to make your wedding uniquely yours.

   5. Consider Comfort and Practicality:

   - Ensure that your outdoor décor is beautiful and functional for you and your guests.

   - Provide ample seating, shade, and comfort amenities to ensure everyone can relax and enjoy the celebration.

   - Consider practical elements such as weather-resistant materials or backup plans for inclement weather to ensure a seamless experience for your guests.

6. Seek Inspiration and Guidance:

   - Explore wedding blogs, magazines, and social media platforms for inspiration and ideas for your outdoor wedding décor.

   - Consult with a professional wedding planner or decorator specialising in outdoor weddings to help bring your vision to life.

   - Visit your chosen venue in advance to assess the space and brainstorm creative décor ideas that complement its natural beauty.

Weather-Proofing Your Outdoor Wedding: Tips for Success in London

Planning an outdoor wedding in London comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to unpredictable weather. However, with careful preparation and strategic planning, you can ensure that your special day goes off without a hitch. Here are some essential tips for weather-proofing your outdoor wedding in the vibrant city of London.

• Secure a Backup Plan:

While you may have your heart set on an outdoor ceremony or reception, it's crucial to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Whether reserving an indoor space at your venue or renting a tent, having a backup plan will provide peace of mind and ensure that your celebration can proceed smoothly regardless of the weather conditions.

• Invest in Quality Shelter: 

Invest in quality shelter options such as sturdy tents or marquees to host your wedding outdoors. These structures can protect from rain, wind, and harsh sunlight, allowing guests to enjoy the festivities comfortably. Additionally, consider installing sidewalls or heating elements to enhance your outdoor space's comfort.

• Keep Guests Informed:

Effective communication is key to weather-proofing your wedding. Keep your guests informed about the potential for outdoor conditions and any contingency plans you have in place. Please include information about appropriate attire and any additional accommodations that will be provided to ensure their comfort throughout the event.

• Embrace Flexible Timing:

Flexibility is essential when planning an outdoor wedding, especially in a city like London, where weather patterns can be unpredictable. Consider scheduling your ceremony or reception when weather conditions, such as late morning or early evening, are typically more favourable. This will minimise the risk of extreme heat or sudden downpours and allow you to maximise your outdoor setting.

• Provide Comfort Enhancements: 

To ensure your guests remain comfortable regardless of the weather, consider providing additional amenities such as fans, umbrellas, or blankets. These thoughtful touches will demonstrate your consideration for your guests' well-being and allow them to enjoy the outdoor experience fully.

• Work with Experienced Vendors:

When selecting vendors for your outdoor wedding, prioritise those with experience managing outdoor events and navigating unpredictable weather conditions. From caterers who can adapt their menus to accommodate changing temperatures to photographers who can capture stunning outdoor shots in any weather, choosing experienced professionals will help ensure your wedding day is a success.

Innovate Your Outdoor Wedding: Embracing Tech Trends in London

Planning an outdoor wedding in the bustling city of London offers endless opportunities for creativity and innovation. There's no shortage of outdoor spaces, from stunning garden venues to picturesque riverside settings. Consider incorporating the latest tech trends to elevate your outdoor wedding experience to the next level. Here are some innovative ideas to help you infuse technology seamlessly into your outdoor wedding celebration.

1. Interactive Guest Experiences:

Engage your guests from the moment they arrive with interactive experiences. Consider setting up digital photo booths with fun filters and instant social media sharing capabilities. You can also create custom wedding hashtags and encourage guests to share their photos and well-wishes online, fostering a sense of community and connectivity.

2. Live-Streaming Services:

Extend the reach of your outdoor wedding ceremony to friends and family who cannot attend in person by offering live-streaming services. With the rise of virtual events, live-streaming technology allows you to broadcast your ceremony in real-time, enabling remote guests to participate in your special day from anywhere in the world.

3. Augmented Reality (AR) Enhancements:

Add a touch of magic to your outdoor wedding with augmented reality enhancements. Consider incorporating AR elements into your wedding invitations, signage, or cake. From interactive seating charts to animated photo backdrops, AR technology offers endless possibilities for creating memorable and immersive experiences for you and your guests.

4. Drone Photography and Videography:

Capture breathtaking aerial views of your outdoor wedding venue and surrounding landscape with drone photography and videography. Drones allow you to capture unique perspectives and stunning panoramic shots that traditional cameras may not be able to achieve. From sweeping aerial shots of your ceremony to dynamic aerial footage of your reception, drone technology adds an element of cinematic flair to your wedding memories.

5. Smart Lighting Solutions:

Set the mood and ambience of your outdoor wedding venue with smart lighting solutions. Consider installing programmable LED lights customised to match your wedding colours or change in sync with the music. Smart lighting technology allows you to create dramatic lighting effects and enhance the overall atmosphere of your outdoor celebration.

6. Virtual Reality (VR) Experiences:

Transport your guests to new worlds with virtual reality experiences. Set up VR stations where guests can explore immersive virtual environments or relive special moments from your relationship. VR technology offers a unique and memorable way to entertain guests and create unforgettable wedding memories.

FAQs about Outdoor Wedding Venues in London

How much to pay for outdoor wedding venues in London?

Minimum spend for outdoor wedding venues in Greater London starts at around £500. If you want to go for a flat hire, prices start at around £20 per hour. Prices will depend on the proximity from Central London, the maximum size of the venue, and the additional facilities provided with the price (Based on Tagvenue data).

Where to look for al fresco venues in Central London?

If you still need your venue to be relatively close to London’s centre, the venues around Hyde Park could potentially be a good fit with their classy interiors and breezy gardens. You can also find some great venues with waterside porches, piers and terraces all over the bank of River Thames. Boats and yachts for hire are also located there.

What are the benefits of hiring an outdoor wedding venue?

Hosting a wedding in the great outdoors has many benefits. You’ll be able to enjoy yourself with an incredible backdrop of your choosing. Not only does it give your wedding a unique atmosphere, but also guarantees awesome wedding photos. Also, everyone will feel better in nature, with the sun, fresh air and large amounts of open space.

How can I save when hiring an outdoor wedding venue in London?

There are many ways to save on a wedding, even in a pricey city like London. While you may be restricted by the time of year if you are planning an outdoor wedding, you can still save money by avoiding peak times when booking your venue. If you plan your wedding for a weekday or a weekend morning, you will be able to get better hire deals for many outdoor wedding venues. You can also explore minimum spend offers or wedding packages.