This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
A vineyard is a romantic and rustic setting to say I Do, but like any location, it can pose some challenges. Take a close look at these nine mistakes that you definitely want to avoid.
Skipping an inside option.
If the vineyard doesn’t have an indoor space, be sure to rent a tent—not just in case of rain, but also to provide guests with some shade from the sun and heat.
Making it all about wine.
Just because you're getting married in a vineyard doesn't mean you have to make every detail of your wedding wine-related, says Liz Ise, Chancey Charm Dallas Wedding Planner. "Corks are great, but think outside the box. Think of the vineyard more as a beautiful, natural landscape instead of a wine-producing garden so you're not boxed into specific color palettes or grape themed décor."
Overlooking time restrictions.
Many wineries are open to the public until 5pm, which can pose problems with setup and when the ceremony can begin, says Joyce Scardina Becker of Events of Distinction. "And many wineries have noise ordinances (the county imposes these restrictions) and must end music and weddings at 10pm, especially for outdoor wineries. Before securing a winery venue have a complete understanding of their hours of operation, set-up times and other restrictions.”
Forgetting about bugs.
Many couples envision a wine country wedding or vineyard during the summer months, so be prepared for Mother Nature as it could be extremely hot with unwanted visitors such as bees, mosquitoes and other creepy crawlers, says Scardina Becker.
Neglecting to give clear instructions.
Make sure you give guests proper directions, says Christine Slusser of Kansas City Photography. "Let's face it, a lot of times these types of weddings are in the middle of nowhere ... you know, where grapes grow best! A simple address for the GPS just isn't going to cut it--make sure to include some landmarks and mile markers for people to follow as well. I've also seen brides put out really cute signs that say "X miles to the wedding!" and then where you turn, also have a sign "X Wedding here!"
Not bringing flats.
A lot of times the vineyards can be hilly, or there's a quite the hike down to where the ceremony is going to take place. "I've had brides feet all blistered and bruised after just a few hours of wedding photo--we don't want that!" says Slusser.
Getting married in the off season.
If a true vineyard wedding is the bride's vision and dream, then it is best to make sure you speak with the venue manager to ensure the wedding date you pick is in prime grape bloom season, says Lindsay Rowell, Chancey Charm Charlotte Wedding Planner. “There is nothing like the beautiful green vines as backdrops for the ceremony and pictures.”
Over decorating.
Simplicity is key when getting married at a winery or in wine country, says Scardina Becker. “A wine country venue is surrounded by the lush colors of the outdoors from the vineyards and orchards and winery venues already have built-in decor, as the tanks, barrels and wine becomes your backdrop. Stick with decorations like candles and flowers, but you don't need to bring in more wine decor or pieces that are opposite to the winery's look.”
Only serving wine.
If you're having a wedding at a winery, please make sure you have other beverage options for guests to drink, says Jyl Deering, Chancey Charm Boston Wedding Planner. "I attended a wedding and of course, only wines from the vineyard were served, which was only red wine. Please be mindful that not all guests drink wine. Have a signature drink, beer, and additional non-alcoholic offerings available!"
