There’s something magical about saying your vows under the open sky. Maybe it’s the soft rustle of leaves, the golden light just before sunset, or the wide-open space that makes everything feel more free and joyful. More and more couples across Yorkshire are choosing outdoor weddings, and it’s not hard to see why, as connecting with nature and the great outdoors is special in every way.
I’ve had the pleasure of leading outdoor ceremonies in all sorts of beautiful spots around Yorkshire – from private gardens to forest clearings, wildflower meadows, and stately home grounds. Here’s why couples are falling in love with the idea of celebrating their wedding outdoors.
The setting is naturally beautiful
Yorkshire has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. Whether you’re surrounded by rolling hills in the Yorkshire Dales or nestled in the gardens of a historic manor, the landscape becomes a part of your story. You don’t need much extra decoration – nature provides the backdrop. Alistair and Lauren chose to have their wedding under the canopy of the terrace enveloping The Sun Pavilion in Harrogate, and it worked beautifully. The feel of the breeze, the view of the stunning Valley Gardens, the memory of where the family had all frequently enjoyed ice creams together and the extra confidence that, if it did rain, then their guests were actually sheltered. We took all precautions to stave off the rain the day before though – Lauren buried a raw sausage in the grounds of the Valley Gardens and, as the old tale has it, this ensures there will be no rain on your wedding day! BOOM!
Outdoor weddings feel relaxed and joyful
Many couples tell me they want their wedding to feel relaxed and authentic. Outdoor ceremonies often feel less formal, more connected, and deeply personal. Guests feel comfortable, the atmosphere is lighter, and there’s a sense of ease that helps everyone be fully present. Zoe and April chose to have their wedding at the sweetest venue in Yorkshire – The Chili Barn in Otley. The bi-folding glass doors opened onto the terrace, whose backdrop was the filed with uninterrupted views over Otley Chevin. Spectacular – and, once again, with that contingency plan to have their ceremony inside if the weather misbehaved! Which it didn’t, and a magical time was enjoyed by all, sitting around the fire pit in the evening as the sun set.
You’re not limited by licensed venues
One of the biggest advantages of a celebrant-led wedding, and especially for outdoor weddings, is that you can choose almost any location. Since the legal part is done separately, your ceremony can take place wherever feels meaningful to you. That could be your parents’ back garden, a forest glade, a family farm, or even a holiday cottage you love.
Personal touches shine outdoors
When you’re outside, there’s room to play with layout, rituals and music. I’ve seen couples walk barefoot down woodland paths, have their dog carry the rings, or include a hand fasting ceremony beneath an old oak tree. Being outdoors invites creativity and gives you freedom to express your style. Brian and Rachael embraced this flexibility with both hands, and we enjoyed the most intimate and moving elopement ceremony in the grounds of Swinton Estate…..just bees, butterflies, scented flowers, sunshine, a character-full iron gate, and their photographer and me! After their ceremony, they headed off onto the lake in the estate to row to a little island for their bespoke wedding picnic. Everything was EXACTLY as they wanted it!
It suits symbolic and celebrant weddings perfectly
Celebrant weddings are all about making your ceremony feel like you. Whether you want to include cultural traditions, write your own vows, or invite loved ones to take part, an outdoor space gives you room to bring those ideas to life. There’s a lovely sense of connection to the moment and to each other. Next month , I will be conducting Tom and Ines’ wedding at the superbly-re-imagined Yorkshire Wedding Barn near Richmond. We plan to have the ceremony outside in the pergola with the views of the lake and countryside providing the backdrop – but there is always the option of celebrating in the lovely barn if the weather “takes a turn!” Always have that back-up plan, is my advice!
But what about the weather?
Ah yes – the Great British question. The truth is, we can’t control the weather, but we can plan around it. Many venues have sheltered spots or marquee options. I always bring a smile, a calm approach, and a waterproof folder, your ceremony on my IPad, and my flowery wedding wellies! And honestly, some of the most romantic moments I’ve seen have happened in a gentle drizzle. Having a quality PA system has been an excellent investment for me to offer to my couples – it really came into its own at Sophie and Jamie’s wedding when we were outside and the wind got up. Happily, the ceremony continued uninterrupted ! Belts, braces and back-up!!
If you dream of a ceremony that feels natural, personal and full of heart, an outdoor wedding could be the perfect fit. Whether you’re planning a garden wedding in Harrogate, a field ceremony near Thirsk or a scenic spot in the Yorkshire Dales, I’d love to help you create something beautiful.
Let’s make your ceremony feel like home – under open skies, surrounded by love.
