outdoor tent setup at wedding

Five Details for a Romantic Outdoor Wedding

Wedding Educational

3 Bride + Grooms kiss at their outdoor wedding

Today, we’re talking about my five details for a romantic outdoor wedding. The couples and weddings featured here have incorporated these five details to create a romantic and timeless outdoor wedding.

While planning a romantic outdoor wedding may be a daunting task at first, trust me when I say that it can be absolutely beautiful. As a New Jersey wedding photographer, I’ve seen how outdoor weddings can be incredibly unique and special. With the right scenic background, weather, and creative touch, outdoor weddings have the potential to be one of a kind.

Throughout the year I’ve noticed that there are a few details that really made these weddings extra special. Here are the top five details I’ve found can make an outdoor wedding incredibly romantic and timeless:

1. Outdoor Tents

First on my list of details for a romantic outdoor wedding are tents! Tents are a perfect way to protect from the elements when planning a wedding outdoors. While rain may be a possibility, tents can help “the show go on” despite that! They come in all shapes, materials, and sizes to match your decor. 

Tents have a romantic feel and give a beautiful glow when photographing.  I have noticed couples adding florals, chandeliers, banners, and lights as a way to make a dreamy atmosphere. 

2. Enhance Nature

You’ve already picked a beautiful setting, so just have some fun when it comes to decorating your outdoor wedding. Dangle string lights from tree branches. Incorporate the florals you see around your spot into the decoration. Utilize different fabrics to section off areas. Play with chandeliers, colorful curtains, and centerpieces. And in some locations, you may feel zero pressure to add anything in terms of decoration because the scenery around you speaks for itself.

A popular detail that I noticed has been incorporating vintage pieces for statement areas like seating charts, souvenirs, cake table, etc.  Vintage furniture can be used to create lounge areas within the wedding.  And in some locations, you may feel zero pressure to add anything in terms of decoration because the scenery around you speaks for itself.

outdoor tent setup at wedding

3. Set the Mood with Lighting

Outdoor lighting can make the whole venue so incredibly romantic. Adding little lighting touches like paper lanterns, pin spot lighting, twinkling lights, or chandeliers will not only set a mood for you and your guests but help me photograph you as well!

A tip I’ve learned is to have an electrician check out all the space before lighting up your tent if you have one. They’ll help you make sure your tent is in code and that you have the proper generator to keep the lights on all night long!

outdoor wedding tent with stringed lights and chandelier

4. Wedding Calligraphy

This detail may be one you’ve never thought of before, but it can transform your outdoor wedding extra romantic with calligraphy. This little detail helps stay on theme with a more natural or organic feel. Your vows will be extra special by having them sweetly written and will become a treasured piece for many, many years to come. You can also utilize calligraphy for seating charts, table settings, signage throughout the property so it really feels like you. 

Note: One of my favorite things I’ve seen is a beautifully written sign directing guests from the parking lot to the ceremony location. It’s just a small detail that is incredibly useful and keeps it romantic from start to finish!

Beautiful yellow board of table place settings written in calligraphy

5. Food Trucks

Food Trucks are last but not least on my list of top Five Details for a Romantic Outdoor wedding. I just love how specialty food and cocktail trucks create such a fun vibe, especially for cocktails.  There are so many options in trucks that can fit the theme of any wedding. It’s also a great way to support small businesses in your area. Seriously, there are so many times of wedding vendors now with a food truck! Think coffee, cocktails, entrees, dessert, donuts, champagne, and more! 

If you found these tips helpful, bookmark this page or share with a friend!! If have other details or suggestions to create a romantic outdoor wedding, I’d love to hear from you!

I’ve had the honor of capturing a few amazing, romantic outdoor weddings recently that inspired this post. You can check out Erica and Michael’s outdoor Philadelphia wedding at Franklin Square and Karina & Jamie’s intimate vineyard micro-wedding.

For more outdoor wedding inspiration check out these styled shoots at Park Chateau Estate and Garden and Windows on the Water for romantic + timeless NJ Wedding venues.

Jocelyn Cruz Photography is based in South New Jersey and serves the surrounding areas of PA and NJ.  Are you interested in learning more about our wedding photography?  Please inquire here for more information.

@jocelyncruzphotography

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Hi, I'm Jocelyn Cruz, the one behind the lens at your milestone moments. From capturing your wedding's heartfelt dances to the big reveal of your latest business venture, I'm there. My approach to photography? Simple yet profound: seize the real, unscripted emotions and turn them into your visual legacy. Ready for authentic, timeless photographs that reflect your true story? Connect with me, and let's create something unforgettable.

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