Throughout the years of envisioning your wedding, many things may change.  The dress, the menu, the music, the decor… so many things can stray from your original plan.  A main component that may change is where you picture the wedding being held.  With so many factors involved, here is how to choose between an indoor and outdoor wedding.

Budget

There are a few things to remember when budgeting for indoor and outdoor weddings.  In general, indoor venues tend to be more expensive than outdoor weddings.  This may be surprising to some due to the assumption that preparing for all forms of weather can be costly.  However, the price of the venue rental for indoor weddings alone frequently raises the price.  Of course, this is not to say it is not worth it!

Outdoor venues may require additional rentals like spacious tents or other forms of protection for guests, depending on weather conditions.  The costs of such rentals are often minimal compared to paying for large indoor venues.  This will differ depending on the venue, and many locations offer various packages to better cater to each couple.

Both indoor and outdoor venues can offer specialized services and amenities like lighting, screens, and sound systems.  While outdoor weddings do require a bit more planning, indoor settings often need more elaborate decorations to, at the very least, try to match Mother Nature’s beauty.  It is worth discussing with a professional team to know all the options available and which suits your needs best.

Decor and Atmosphere

As mentioned above, it is hard to compare any form of decor to the ambiance we receive in nature.  Outdoor wedding venues can still incorporate decorations if so desired.  But, with little to no decorations, outdoor weddings allow the ceremony and the couple to be the main attraction, as they should be.

On the other hand, while indoor spaces may require more complex decorations, they are also generally more flexible in terms of layout and decor.  This may provide more freedom to achieve the desired ambiance.  For example, custom lighting, floral arrangements, and drapery create a unique and equally magical setting.  If a wedding has a theme, this may be even more relevant as they require more specific, stylized decor. 

To decide which venue is best, we advise narrowing down the atmosphere you hope to achieve. Do you prefer more rustic and casual or more elegant and romantic settings?  Perhaps, you want to find a balance of both.  If there is ever a time to combine an assortment of decor options, a wedding celebrating two unique (and possibly very different) individuals is it!

Privacy and Noise Considerations

Part of creating a specific atmosphere may require a certain level of privacy.  Indoor venues offer more control over noise levels, which instantly helps the ceremony be more private.  Yet, outdoor venues can also provide privacy!  The key is looking for a more secluded area consisting of natural barriers. 

For example, trees, hedges, and other forms of sculpted landscapes help to provide a lot of privacy.  Plus, they add a romantic touch to the ceremony.  It’s the perfect option if a more ethereal setting is desired.

Luckily, there are ways to have an intimate, private ceremony in both indoors and outdoors.  How this is done depends on the venue you choose and the talent behind their professional team.

The Time of Year

Naturally, some seasons are more conducive for outdoor weddings than others.  This can often limit couples to either choosing a Spring or Summer wedding.  However, if you’ve been set on having a Winter wedding, a little snow shouldn’t stop you!  

Indoor options allow you to enjoy a winter wonderland wedding without worrying about the snow.  For this reason, some indoor venues are often in higher demand during certain seasons.  With this being said, it may also lead to higher rental costs.  It is best to decide between indoor and outdoor weddings based on what is available during the season you wish to get married.  And, what would be more practical with your guests’ needs in mind?

The Number of Guests

Speaking of guests, an important part of wedding planning is knowing how many guests will attend.  Indoor venues typically have a fixed capacity to ensure ultimate safety.  This also affects the overall cost per guest.

Outdoor weddings are often more flexible with how many guests can be invited.  While it feels as though there is an unlimited amount of space, it is always advised to check the capacity regulations with each venue.  

Regardless of the venue, an important consideration is providing a comfortable space for the celebratory festivities.  From ample seating to accommodating the cold or hot weather, the right venue will offer solutions with each guest in mind.

Desired Services and Amenities

The services and amenities offered for indoor and outdoor weddings are more extensive than ever before.  Wedding catering, bar services, and entertainment have all expanded over the years to provide couples and their guests more options.

Whether these services are offered for outdoor weddings depends on the companies involved.  In most cases, the services are provided for an additional cost.  Especially if the weather conditions must be factored in.  

It’s important to speak to the venue to see what arrangements can be made depending on the season.  Many outdoor venues have your needs in mind and strive to provide everything required for a flawless wedding day.

A Memorable Wedding In Any Setting

The benefits of an indoor wedding versus an outdoor wedding depend on a few factors.  This includes the selected venue, the number of guests, the time of year, and the desired services and amenities.  The factor you should pay attention to the most is knowing what would make the special day even more memorable.

Whether you want a magical wedding indoors or outdoors, Birch Hill has the perfect venues.  Providing the most beautiful scenic settings in Albany and Upstate New York is only one of our numerous offerings.  

With over 80 years of experience, Birch Hill offers everything from a rustic barn wedding to a more formal ballroom setting.  Vows can be exchanged at one of our seven venues at Birch Hill Estate or Stablegate Farm and Vineyard to ensure the perfect spot for your unique wedding.  

If you need help choosing between an indoor and outdoor wedding, we can help! For more information or to arrange a meeting with our professionals, please call (518) 732-4444.