May 21st 2010

Weddings during the spring months on the Outer Banks embrace the beauty of the environment with the rejuvenation of the season to create a surreal and meaningful union for a loving couple.  Flowers are blooming, the scent of honeysuckles fills the air and the soft, salty breezes floating off the ocean can enhance your wedding day moments and sketch them in your memories for an eternity.

But the Outer Banks is far from predictable. Fluctuations in weather are notorious on this barrier island and formulating a back up plan for foul weather is a must. Be sure your venue has options for indoor settings and that your reception location can withstand the traffic if all your guests must be inside for the duration of your reception. Having multiple rental homes adjacent to one another in the event that this happens is always a good idea for overflow guests.  Talk with your wedding coordinator or vendors about their back up plans in the event that Mother Nature chooses to be fickle on your wedding day.

When planning an outdoor wedding, be sure that the basics, such as bathroom access for guests and intrusions from tourists at popular wedding locations is accounted for.  Rental bathrooms are available and will keep your guests happy and content in ways no "port-a-potties" ever could.  If you have visions of marrying under a lighthouse or walking over a bridge to your groom, be sure the venue has the proper signage and deterrents for tourists.  Walking over the bridge towards your future husband and 200 guests might not be as memorable if you are dodging sunburnt tourists snapping shots of a lighthouse while you're walking towards your future.

While the weather is usually mild this time of year, be prepared for the occasional heat-wave that can occur three months too early.  If you like to get your groove on and your wedding gown is three thick layers of taffeta, silk and lace, change into a simpler, dancing-friendly dress that will allow you to throw down with Uncle Fred on the dance floor all night long.  Wind and the Outer Banks are inseparable, so if you are forming your union on the beach or outdoors, be sure your dress and veil are wind friendly.  You might also want to consider the wind direction in relation to where you stand to say "I do"-- there's nothing more distracting than professing your love with a mouthful of veil.

With some foresight and intelligent planning, your outdoor wedding on the Outer Banks can instill joy, love and simplicity.  Account for all possible weather scenarios and make sure your plans work both indoors and out.  Hiring an experienced wedding planner will help you navigate the tricky weather and its endless possibilities on your special day.

article by Crystal Street
photos by  Julie Dreelin and Lauren Cowart of Julie Dreelin's Photography/Videography Inc.
vendors: thepropersetting.com,blackpelicancatering.com,sugarsnapevents.com,metrorentalobx.com,wedsafe.com