Outdoor Wedding Decor in the Golden Horseshoe, A Realistic Guide

Outdoor weddings in the Golden Horseshoe are gorgeous in photographs and tough in practice. The wind, the heat, the unpredictable Ontario weather, all complicate the decor. Here is what works and what does not.

Florals love outdoor light. Fresh florals photograph spectacularly in late afternoon sun. They also wilt fast in direct heat. Plan installations to face north or east when possible. We install as late as the venue will allow on hot days.

Drapery is risky outdoors. Wind takes drapery and turns it into a sail. If your venue is exposed (a vineyard, an open lawn), drapery will need heavy anchors or it will need to be skipped. Most vineyards have at least some shelter you can work into the design.

Floral arches work better than floral walls outdoors. An arch is structurally simpler, anchors more easily, and weighs less. A full floral wall outdoors needs a serious wind plan.

Candles need protection. Open flame candles outdoors are wishful thinking. Use hurricane glass over every candle, and bring battery LED backups for the dinner tables. Wind will blow most flames out by the second course.

A rain plan is mandatory. Every outdoor wedding we do has a written rain plan. Where does the ceremony move? Where does the cocktail hour go? What stays and what gets postponed? We share this plan with the couple, the planner, and the venue manager forty eight hours before the day.

If you are planning an outdoor wedding in Niagara, Hamilton, Burlington, or anywhere in the Golden Horseshoe, get in touch early. Outdoor designs need lead time, and the best venues book out a year ahead.