Indoor vs Outdoor Weddings: How To Choose

Planning & Advice

Are you trying to decide if you’d like to get married indoors or outdoors? When it comes to choose between the two, there’s a lot to consider! We’ve made a list of pros and cons to think about with indoor vs outdoor weddings. In this instance, we are looking at indoor weddings hosted at a venue compared to outdoor weddings that require hiring in tables, chairs, caterers and so on. If you’re still undecided, our helpful compromises at the end of this post will help you! So keep on reading to take a look at our indoor vs outdoor weddings list…

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Indoor Weddings – Things to Consider

Fewer unpredictable elements: If you choose an indoor wedding location, you don’t have to worry about the weather, be it wind, sun or rain. If coming up with a ‘Plan B’ isn’t something you’re up for, then choosing the indoors might be your best bet.

Logistics: An indoor wedding venue (unless it’s a raw space) has electricity, toilets, catering facilities and anything else you’ll need. This means no (or very little) hiring in and all the convenience of nearby parking, wheelchair accessibility and more.

The limitations: Spending the day indoors means you’ll have limited access to beautiful views (unless, of course, your venue has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Ireland’s best views).

 

Stargaze Photography | Faithlegg House

 

Decor restrictions: Some venues have restrictions with what you’re allowed to hang up or display (this includes lights, candles, backdrops and more, so ask your venue). Don’t forget to read through your contract and ask any questions you can when you’re venue hunting!

No melted food: A climate-controlled indoor space means all your food will be at the right temperature all day. This means no melted cake or sketchy charcuterie!

No natural lighting: Depending on your venue, its location and the size and amount of windows, you may rely heavily on artificial lighting. Make sure you hire a professional photographer with the skills and equipment required to capture gorgeous photos regardless!

 

Aidan Beatty | The Stephens Green Club

 

Outdoor Weddings – Things to Consider

The weather: We’re putting this one first because it’s a HUGE consideration. Your beautiful setting always comes with a chance of overheating, wind or rain (especially in Ireland).

You’ll need a Plan B: We always recommend arranging a ‘Plan B’ if you’re opting for the outdoors. An extra tent or marquee, loads of umbrellas, a note for guests to dress appropriately, are all things you want to consider.

Restrictions and permits: You won’t always need a permit, but getting married outdoors will have its restrictions. Think about restrictions on amplified sound or size limits on your marquee.

Simple decor: Being outside means you’ve got a gorgeous backdrop no matter what. This means you’ll spend less money and time on your decor!

 

Couple Photography | The Village Barn

 

Rental items: Where will your chairs, tables, linens, sound and decor come from? If you’re getting married outdoors, you’ll need to rent all of these items, along with the staff to pull it off.

Beautiful natural lighting: Literally nothing beats photos captured in natural light!

Sweaty food: Sounds gross, but you need to think about what food is safe to leave outside all day. You might want to reconsider your buttercream cake and charcuterie board.

Outdoor games: With all the outdoor space on your hands, you can entertain your guests with giant Jenga and other lawn games!

 

David McNeill Photography | Tinakilly Country House

 

Can’t decide? Compromise!

Outdoor ceremony and indoor reception: Who says you’ve got to pick one or the other? Tie the knot outdoors and celebrate with dinner and dancing inside! Lots of Ireland’s wedding venues offer both options, along with a suitable ‘Plan B’ if the weather doesn’t play along.

A clear tent: If you’re set on an outdoor wedding, hire a clear tent. This way, you can be outdoors and enjoy the views, without bad weather getting in the way.