How to Plan a Lakefront Wedding Like the Pros
14 expert tips for how to plan and execute the perfect waterfront wedding
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! If you have your heart set on a lakefront wedding, you’re not alone! A lake wedding provides a stunning backdrop and creates a memorable experience for you and your guests. To ensure a successful event, here’s are 14 tips for planning your dream lakefront wedding:
Choose the Perfect Lake Venue: Start by researching and visiting various lake venues in your desired location. Look for venues that offer lakeside or waterfront settings, ensuring you have the ideal backdrop for your special day. Consider factors such as capacity, amenities, accessibility, and available wedding packages. Be sure to inquire about any permits required for hosting a wedding ceremony or reception at the venue.
Weather Considerations: Lakefront weddings are often held outdoors, so it's essential to plan for various weather conditions. Check the local climate patterns during your chosen wedding date to anticipate any potential weather changes. Have a backup plan for inclement weather, such as renting tents or having an indoor alternative available at the venue. When you’re looking for a venue, it’s a good idea to ask about this upfront. A venue that will have a backup plan as part of the booking is great! And if you’re using a family property, ask your wedding planner to consider back up plans.
Land Preparation: Speaking of family property, if you’re using a family cabin or something that’s not an official venue, make sure the land will be ready for hosting. This means putting down bug spray, picking up dog poop, mowing the grass, etc. While opting for a family property saves you money, it does require a little more work. Often, you can task family members to help here.
Make Use of the Lake: Be sure to check out your options for making use of the water itself. See if your family member can lend you a boat or see if there are any rentals around to use for a boat ride cocktail hour. It’s also a great way to give your wedding party something to do while you’re taking first look photos. And it can even give your photographer a way to get some long shots of your venue!
Guest List & Invitations: Compose your guest list and send out save-the-date cards and invitations well in advance to ensure your guests have ample time to plan for your special day. Inform your guests about the lakeside setting so they can dress appropriately and make necessary preparations.
Wedding Decorations & Centerpieces: Though lakeside weddings offer great natural beauty, some considerations will have to be made for your wedding decorations. For example, greenery, floral arrangements, and centerpieces will probably all need to be weighted in case of wind. Or florals will have to be put out closer to the start time in hot weather to avoid wilting. An experienced florist and wedding planner will be able to help navigate this. But it might mean being flexible on your vision.
Wedding Dress Selection: When choosing your wedding dress for a lakefront wedding, consider the outdoor setting. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics that are suitable for the potential heat or humidity. Additionally, consider practicality and choose a dress that allows easy movement, especially if you plan to take photos or participate in outdoor activities like kayaking.
Wedding Party Attire: If you’re selecting the wedding party’s wear, choose attire that’s lightweight and breathable. If you’re letting your party choose for themselves, be sure to reiterate what the weather may be like so that they can make an informed decision. And discuss footwear options that are suitable for walking on grass or sand. (For example, wedges are great for grass, whereas standard heels will drive right in.)
Wedding Photographer: Hire a professional wedding photographer experienced in capturing outdoor ceremonies and the natural beauty of the lake. You can do this by looking through their portfolio. Once you choose one, discuss your vision and specific lake wedding ideas with them to ensure you receive stunning photos that capture the essence of your special day.
Wedding Planner & Vendors: Consider hiring a wedding planner who has experience with outdoor ceremonies and lakefront weddings. They can assist you with the planning process, recommend trusted vendors, and manage the logistics (like that backup plan we mentioned before), allowing you to fully enjoy your big day stress-free. Collaborate with wedding vendors experienced in lake weddings, such as caterers who offer outdoor dining options and DJs who can provide sound systems suitable for open-air venues.
Outdoor Ceremony & Officiant: Plan an outdoor ceremony near the lake that takes advantage of the picturesque setting. Coordinate with your officiant to ensure they are comfortable conducting the ceremony in an outdoor environment. Discuss any necessary equipment, such as a microphone or speakers, to ensure everyone can hear the vows and speeches clearly.
Wedding Favors: Consider giving your guests favors to help them better enjoy the location and make it as comfortable as possible. You can do this by packaging them individually or simply putting out baskets where people can take favors as they need them. Baskets of sunglasses, sunscreen, chapstick, bug spray, and even flip-flops are all good ways to make sure your guests are taken care of. And it’s wise to place the baskets where they make the most sense. So maybe sunglasses by the guest book, flip-flops in the reception area, etc.
Wedding Reception & Cocktail Hour: Organize a seamless transition from the wedding ceremony to the reception. Consider hosting a cocktail hour near the lake (or on it, like we mentioned before!), allowing your guests to enjoy the beautiful views while sipping on refreshing beverages.
Rehearsal Dinner & Other Pre-Wedding Events: Plan a rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding at a location near the lake. This provides an opportunity for you all to gauge what the wedding day will be like in terms of weather, humidity, etc. That way, people can make adjustments accordingly.
By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to plan a lakefront wedding that will leave a lasting impression on both you and your guests. Embrace the natural splendor and create memories of your perfect wedding in the picturesque setting of a lakeside venue.
If you’re hoping for a lakefront wedding but don’t know where to start, work with us! We have plenty of experience with lakeside weddings and would love to bring our expertise to your big day.