Outdoor Ceremonies: What to Know

Around 1 in 5 couples now choose to hold their ceremony outdoors, according to Bridebook's 2026 UK Wedding Report - and it's easy to see why. Natural light, a relaxed setting, and a backdrop that needs no decorating all make for a lovely start to the day, and some great photos.

What to think about

The obvious one is the weather - but in our experience, that's rarely the dealbreaker people expect it to be. Most venues with outdoor ceremony spaces have an indoor backup plan, and even a bit of rain can make for genuinely memorable photos (just ask Kirsty and Simon).

Timing and light

Outdoor ceremonies tend to work best avoiding the very middle of the day, when the light is harshest - late morning or late afternoon often give the most flattering light for photos, as well as being more comfortable for guests.

Photography-wise

Outdoor settings give us a lot to work with - natural backdrops, soft light, and space to capture the whole scene as it happens, rather than being confined to rows of chairs in a marquee.

If you're considering an outdoor ceremony, get in touch - we're always happy to talk through what works best for a particular venue or season.

Source: Bridebook Wedding Report 2026