Here are a few questions to ask yourself when choosing between an indoor and an outdoor wedding venue.
For your wedding to go off without a hitch, you need to nail down significant decisions like where your wedding will be hosted and whether it will be an indoor or outdoor celebration.
Historic Oakland Manor has helped many clients decide whether an indoor or outdoor event is right for them or whether a hybrid is the best option. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when choosing between an indoor and an outdoor wedding venue.
How Big Will Your Wedding Be?
How many guests are coming, and how extravagant will your wedding be? Your event venue space will be primarily determined by how many people you need to host and how many activities you need to accommodate.
Indoor venues vary from small, intimate gatherings to large venue halls that can fit hundreds of people. However, as your guest list increases, so will your budget. On the other hand, outdoor venues are more budget-friendly for larger guest counts.
Look at your budget to see if you can afford an indoor venue hall for all you need or if an outdoor event venue will provide more options at a lower cost.
When Will Your Wedding Be Held?
When looking at wedding venues in Maryland, considering the time of year is critical for indoor versus outdoor venues. The weather in Maryland can fluctuate greatly, even in predictable seasons, so it’s essential to consider weather, temperature, and the feasibility of backup plans.
In winter, you may need to add outdoor heaters or choose an outdoor venue with fire pits. In summer, outdoor venues in Maryland may be too hot, so you’ll have to consider additional tent or coverage rentals, plus the possibility of fans to beat the heat. Indoor venues are a better option for seasons with extreme temperatures.
Spring and Fall, however, can be beautiful times of year to host an outdoor event. You get the natural backdrop of blooming flowers and changing leaves, as well as a cool breeze and natural atmosphere. To avoid inclement weather, have tent rentals on hand and talk to your venue coordinator about their indoor-outdoor options in case of rain or wind.
What Activities will You Have at Your Wedding?
As with your guest count, knowing how much space or equipment you need for activities will influence your wedding venue.
Bands, speakers, and dance floors will benefit from an indoor event venue, where you have access to many electrical outlets, coverage, and stages. However, if you are hosting multiple events at once, various bands, for example, an indoor venue, may not have enough space for your needs. Smaller, intimate weddings are perfect for indoor event venues and don’t require a lot of space.
Do You Have Accessibility Requirements?
You should consider your guests’ accessibility needs and whether an indoor or outdoor venue will offer the best options.
Consider needs like wheelchairs, canes, elevators, walking distance, ground conditions, and more. Some outdoor venues may not have paved or well-kept walkways, meaning it can be difficult for guests with disabilities to get to all areas of your event. Some indoor wedding venues, however, may not have elevators and require access to certain flights by stairs.
Ask each venue about accommodations and keep track of your guests’ needs. A level event space is best for disability accommodations, and while this most often is an indoor wedding venue, outdoor event venues may have more grounds your guests can access if they are properly paved and maintained.
HISTORIC OAKLAND MANOR: THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
Nestled in a peaceful wooded area in the heart of downtown Columbia, Historic Oakland Manor stands proudly in natural splendor. Elegant Oakland is the perfect setting for ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, holiday parties, family celebrations, business meetings, or retreats. Schedule a tour today with our expert venue coordinators! Please call (410-730-4801), email ([email protected]), or visit our chat on our homepage to book a tour appointment.
