Tips For Planning an Outdoor Wedding in the Poconos

Oct 29, 2020

Are you planning an outdoor wedding in the Poconos? Skytop Lodge is one of the most coveted wedding venues in the Northeast with world-class cuisine and everything you need to celebrate your special day.

With sweeping mountain views and picturesque lakes, Skytop Lodge is located high up in the Poconos, ideal for an outdoor wedding ceremony. Plus, with a wide array of wedding packages to meet every style and budget, you’ll find a professional staff ready to help you make your dream day come true.

It’s no wonder so many couples choose to get married in the Pocono Mountains. It’s the ideal romantic setting that fosters connection, love, and a healthy dose of outdoor adventure.

Read on for some expert planning tips from Skytop Lodge for your outdoor wedding in the Poconos.

Research the Weather

Every season brings something magical to the Poconos. Snow-capped mountaintops in the winter, beautiful spring flowers, and summer sunsets over the lake to name a few. Not to mention the endless photo opportunities at every turn.

With highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s, our peak wedding season is in the late spring and all through the summer, but it’s up to you when you want to book your date. Before you book, and before you head out here, do some research on what the weather is like during your desired month.

Of course, most outdoor ceremonies go off without a hitch, but it’s nice to be prepared, and we’re here to help with contingency planning in the off chance the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Create a Day-Of Timeline

A day-of wedding timeline is a must, but it’s also important to stay flexible. Once you determine what time the ceremony will begin and end, and what time the reception will begin and end, then you can incorporate timing for other important details. Some moments to consider for your timeline include:

  • Wedding party arrival (the time they should be ready for photos)
  • When the bride and groom should be ready for photos
  • First look with the bride and groom
  • How long you want to wait for guests to trickle in before you walk down the aisle
  • The length of time for photos after the ceremony (and if you need drive time)
  • If you will transition guests to an indoor ballroom for the reception (and what time the room will be ready)
  • Champagne welcome toast to kick off the reception
  • When the bride and groom will walk around to greet guests
  • The “last call” for dancing and drinks
  • If (and at what time) you want to have a grand exit

Work backward from the ceremony start time to incorporate details like if you are doing a first look, or hoping to get all your photos done before the ceremony, to create your official day-of timeline. Make sure the bride isn’t the only one who knows the timeline. In fact, it’s best to designate a planner or bridesmaid to assist with keeping the timeline moving along and to ensure no special moment is rushed or forgotten.

Think About Photo Ideas

Some wedding planners will tell you that if you only splurge on one thing, let it be the photography. Capturing the memories of your special day will be something you cherish forever. That’s why it’s important to get the shots you want. We love when couples and photographers come prepared with their photography plan.

Skytop Lodge is located on 5,500 acres. It’s unbelievably picturesque. We offer a great backup location for an outdoor ceremony. It’s truly a worry-free atmosphere with lakes and mountain views. Once you arrive, your photographer will likely scope out some ideal photo spots, but there are some things you can do ahead of time too.

When you’re in the planning phase of your wedding, don’t forget to look at wedding photos to get ideas for poses or props. You may want to hold a sign or incorporate a fun detail into your wardrobe, or you may want to elicit your bridesmaids to plan a special photo. Doing photography research will influence other things like your wardrobe, the photographer you choose, and even your budget.

Don’t Forget The Details

Of course, brides who have been dreaming of their wedding day are not going to skimp on the details. When you get into the thick of planning, though, you may need to take a step back. One way to plan a memorable day and ensure beautiful photos is to embrace and highlight your venue in the details.

  • Incorporate the ambiance in your centerpieces. A fun way to incorporate the mountain scenery is to incorporate fun details in your centerpieces. Pine trees, beautiful wood, and bright flowers are just a few of the things you’ll find here in the summer.
  • Let your venue influence a theme. Having a theme will help you create a cohesive look. Popular Poconos themes include summer garden, enchanted forest, and traditional white.
  • Specialize the altar. Whether it’s a floral arch or a beautiful wooden cross, adding details for the outdoor ceremony will make the bride and groom stand out and feel special.
  • Embrace the flowers of your outdoor venue. Our grounds are full of beautiful gardens and scenery where you can host your wedding ceremony.

Think Big Picture When Planning a Destination Wedding

When you’re planning a destination wedding, there are some additional things you should have top of mind. For example, you should be intimately familiar with the location and property. This is important not only for you but also so you have the ability to share this information with your guests.

Relaying important details to your guests will be key in having a smooth event. Creating a detailed itinerary with a map is one of the best ways to allow your guests to feel comfortable. Then they’ll know exactly where they should be and at what time, allowing them time to freely explore when there’s downtime.

Also, it’s crucial to develop a close relationship with your wedding manager. There’s no doubt you’ll be communicating closely with your manager while you’re planning your wedding. It’s important to keep those lines of communication open so you’re both comfortable and informed of any changes.

Guests are encouraged to make a weekend out of it with a stay in one of our cozy cottage rooms ideal for families. Call us today at (855) 345-7759 to book a site visit. For more services and planning information, please submit an online request.

Plan Your Poconos Wedding

With a wide array of wedding packages to meet every style, budget, and season, your fairytale comes to life at our luxury hotel. Our professional event planning and catering staff ensure every moment of your special day is as perfect and unique as the love you share.

Ready to start planning? Check out our unique selection of outdoor ceremony sites and indoor reception venues today.