3 Awesome Reasons For an Outdoor Wedding

For many couples, the idea of exchanging vows surrounded by nature’s beauty is a dream come true. Outdoor wedding ceremonies offer a unique blend of romance and natural charm, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for your special day. If you’re searching for outdoor ceremony wedding venues in South Wales, UK, you’re in luck—this region is home to some of the most stunning outdoor locations, from lush gardens to rolling countryside.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about planning an outdoor wedding ceremony in South Wales, answer common questions from engaged couples, and highlight our own venue, De Courceys Manor in Cardiff, as an exceptional choice for your outdoor wedding. We’ll also offer insights on how to make your outdoor wedding day perfect, and guide you through the process of choosing the best venue for your needs.

Outdoor open day Wedding at De Courceys

" De Courceys secret garden was magical! "

Why Choose an Outdoor Wedding Venue?

1. Natural Beauty as Your Backdrop

One of the most compelling reasons to choose an outdoor ceremony wedding venue is the natural beauty that will surround you. Whether you’re standing in a blooming garden, beneath a canopy of ancient trees, or overlooking a serene lake, the landscape itself becomes part of the décor, reducing the need for extensive decorations. The vibrant colours, the soft rustling of leaves, and the warm sunlight create a magical atmosphere that simply can’t be replicated indoors.

2. Flexibility and Space

Outdoor venues often provide more flexibility and space than indoor venues. You can plan a ceremony layout that best suits your needs, whether you want a traditional aisle, a circular seating arrangement, or something entirely unique. The open space also allows for more creative options when it comes to seating, decor, and even entertainment. Many outdoor venues offer both ceremony and reception spaces in one location, making the transition from vows to celebrations seamless.

3. Photographic Opportunities

The natural light and scenic backdrops of an outdoor wedding venue create endless opportunities for breathtaking wedding photos. Whether it’s a golden hour portrait or a candid shot under a canopy of trees, outdoor ceremonies offer the perfect setting for capturing memories that will last a lifetime.

Common Questions About Outdoor Ceremony Wedding Venues in South Wales

1. What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

Weather is one of the primary concerns for couples planning an outdoor wedding, and understandably so. South Wales is known for its unpredictable weather, but this doesn’t mean you should shy away from an outdoor ceremony. When choosing an outdoor wedding venue, it’s essential to have a solid backup plan in place. Many venues, including De Courceys Manor, offer beautiful indoor spaces that can be quickly set up in case of rain.

2. Are outdoor wedding venues more expensive?

The cost of an outdoor wedding venue can vary widely depending on the location, services included, and the time of year. In some cases, outdoor venues can be more cost-effective because they may require less in the way of decorations and elaborate lighting. However, it’s important to consider additional costs such as tent rentals, portable restrooms, or heating if your venue doesn’t already offer these amenities. At De Courceys Manor, we offer comprehensive packages that include everything you need to create a seamless outdoor wedding experience, ensuring you get great value without compromising on quality.

3. Can we have a legal wedding ceremony outdoors in South Wales?

Yes, you can have a legally binding wedding ceremony outdoors in South Wales. In July 2021, changes in UK law allowed for legal wedding ceremonies to take place outdoors at licensed venues. It’s important to check that your chosen venue is licensed for outdoor ceremonies and that it meets the necessary legal requirements. De Courceys Manor is fully licensed to host outdoor wedding ceremonies, providing you with a beautiful setting that’s also legally recognised.

4. How can we ensure our guests are comfortable during an outdoor ceremony?

Guest comfort is a key consideration when planning an outdoor wedding. Depending on the time of year, you’ll want to consider factors like shade, seating, and weather protection. Providing options such as parasols, fans, blankets, or heaters can help keep guests comfortable. It’s also a good idea to have a clear plan for elderly guests or those with mobility issues, ensuring they have easy access to seating and facilities. At De Courceys Manor, we provide comfortable, elegant seating options and can accommodate special requests to ensure all your guests feel at ease.

Exploring the Best Outdoor Ceremony Wedding Venues in South Wales

1. De Courceys – A Exclusive Outdoor Wedding Venue in Cardiff

When it comes to outdoor ceremony wedding venues in South Wales, De Courceys stands out as one of the region’s most enchanting choices. Located in the tranquil outskirts of Cardiff, De Courceys offers a blend of historical charm and modern luxury, making it an ideal venue for couples looking to celebrate their love in a stunning outdoor setting.

Why Choose De Courceys for Your Outdoor Wedding?

  • Breathtaking Gardens: The gardens at De Courceys Manor are truly spectacular, offering a lush, verdant backdrop for your ceremony. Whether you envision walking down an aisle amidst woodland or saying “I do” beneath a bandstand, our gardens provide a setting that is both intimate and grand.
  • Exclusive Use: At De Courceys, we believe that your wedding day should be yours and yours alone. We offer exclusive use of the venue, ensuring that you and your guests can enjoy the entire property without interruptions or distractions.
  • All-Inclusive Packages: Our wedding packages are designed to take the stress out of planning. From venue to catering and accommodation, we offer all-inclusive options that cover every aspect of your day, so you can focus on enjoying the moment.
  • Experienced Wedding Planners: Our team of experienced wedding planners is dedicated to bringing your vision to life. Whether you have a clear idea of what you want or need some guidance along the way, we’re here to help every step of the way, ensuring that your outdoor wedding is exactly what you’ve always dreamed of.
  • Versatile Indoor Spaces: While our gardens are perfect for an outdoor ceremony, we also offer beautiful indoor spaces that can serve as a backup in case of bad weather. These spaces are elegantly designed to complement the natural beauty of the outdoors, ensuring that your day is perfect no matter what.

Check out our Instagram profile for our gorgeous Outdoor wedding photos, click HERE.

 

2. Other Noteworthy Outdoor Wedding Venues in South Wales

In addition to De Courceys, South Wales is home to several other outdoor wedding venues that are worth considering:

  • The Corran Resort & Spa: Nestled in the heart of the Carmarthenshire countryside, this venue offers a blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, with beautiful gardens and a lakeside setting.
  • Coed-y-Mwstwr Hotel: Located just outside Bridgend, this Victorian country house hotel offers stunning grounds and a woodland backdrop for a romantic outdoor ceremony.
  • Hensol Castle: This 17th-century castle in the Vale of Glamorgan features expansive gardens and a picturesque lake, providing a fairy-tale setting for an outdoor wedding.
  • Oldwalls Gower: Set in the Gower Peninsula, Oldwalls offers a luxurious outdoor wedding experience with sweeping views of the countryside and first-class facilities.

For more outdoor wedding venues in South Wales, please go to Hitched website.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

1. Timing is Everything

The time of year and time of day will greatly influence your outdoor wedding. In South Wales, late spring to early autumn is usually the best time for an outdoor ceremony, as the weather is warmer and more predictable. Consider scheduling your ceremony for the late afternoon or early evening to take advantage of the soft, golden light.

2. Plan for All Weather Conditions

While you may hope for clear skies, it’s essential to be prepared for all types of weather. Having a backup plan is key—whether it’s a nearby indoor space, a marquee, or a tent. Additionally, communicate with your vendors about the possibility of rain so that they can prepare accordingly.

3. Personalise Your Space

One of the joys of an outdoor wedding is the ability to personalise your space. Consider adding personal touches like custom signs, floral arrangements, or lanterns to enhance the natural beauty of your venue. You can also play with the seating arrangement to create a layout that feels intimate and unique.

4. Consider Your Guests

Ensure your guests are comfortable by providing essentials like fans on warm days. For cooler evenings, consider offering blankets. Also, think about accessibility for all your guests, making sure there are clear paths and comfortable seating.

5. Work with Your Venue

Finally, make the most of your venue’s experience and resources. Venues like De Courceys have hosted countless outdoor weddings and can offer invaluable advice and support to ensure your day goes smoothly. Don’t hesitate to lean on their expertise when it comes to logistics, decor, and timing.

Make Your Outdoor Wedding Dreams a Reality at De Courceys

If you’re dreaming of a beautiful outdoor wedding ceremony in South Wales, look no further than De Courceys. Our stunning gardens, exclusive use of the venue, and dedicated wedding planning team make us the perfect choice for couples looking to create a magical, unforgettable day.

Ready to see what De Courceys can offer? Contact our team today to schedule a tour and experience the beauty of our outdoor ceremony spaces for yourself. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate gathering or a larger celebration, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life.

For more information and to book your tour, visit our website at www.decourceys.co.uk or call us at 029 2089 2320. Let us help you create the outdoor wedding of your dreams!