What does your dream wedding look like? Many of us will have similar lists of “must have’s,” from the dress to the cake and everything in-between. While those are important factors in a wedding, it’s often the location and the venue that make your day truly magical.

With that in mind, a lakeside wedding could be just what you need to create a special day that both you and your guests will remember forever. Here’s an idea of how you can plan your lakeside wedding in Georgia.

 

Special Considerations for a Lakeside Wedding

There are many factors you need to take into consideration when planning your big day, especially when it is by the lakeside.

• Time of year: Outdoor venues have everything they need to host weddings throughout the year, but they can’t provide your clothes. Unless you’re planning a last minute lakeside wedding, you won’t know the weather forecast, so plan your attire accordingly.

• Temperature: The temperature by a lake isn’t necessarily going to be stable throughout the day. It’s a good idea to factor in fluctuations so you can be prepared to keep your guests comfortable from start to finish.
• Safety: If you have children in attendance, the waterside needs to be secure. You could go so far as to hire a day-nanny, or merely request that parents keep a close eye on their little ones. 
• The local wildlife: Avoid being surprised by the ecology of the lake; be prepared for whatever resides around your venue. You never know—a swan may swim past as you say your “I dos”!

 

Top tips

Keeping the above in mind, here are some recommendations to really elevate your lakeside wedding:

 

1. Hire a boat

Make the most of your lakeside setting and create a memorable experience for your guests. You could hire a boat for them to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings on the water itself. Maybe consider arriving or leaving on the boat to give those moments an extra special something.

 

2. Ensure you have covered spaces

Planning for any eventuality, whether rain or shine, will ensure your lakeside wedding is perfect no matter what happens with the weather. There are plenty of elegant options, such as hiring a tent or a marquee. Or if the venue you select has a chapel and a function room, you could always create an indoor-outdoor experience, with al fresco dancing and dining if the weather holds.

3. Consider your footwear

If you’re looking to spend time walking around in sand or on grass, it might be worth telling your guests to leave the stilettos at home, or at least bringing a change of shoes! Guests will appreciate the forewarning to wear wedges or platforms instead.

4. Amplify your entertainment

Whether your entertainment consists of a string quartet or a full-on wedding band, you want your guests to be able to hear the whole set throughout your reception. Ensure everyone can dance the night away by informing your band in advance that some amplification will be needed, even if they are looking to deliver an acoustic set!

 

You may even wish to get microphones in for the ceremony itself. After all, the main reason everyone has gathered is to hear you say your vows.

 

5. Keep checking the forecast!

It is always best to come into a situation fully prepared for whatever lies ahead. If  a rain shower is predicted, the simple addition of umbrellas can transform your day. 

 

If you are lucky enough to have chosen a day with bright sunshine, advising your guests to stay hydrated and use a good SPF could make all the difference. Remember, a Georgia-bound lakeside wedding in the summer is likely to be more humid, so it is also worth bearing this in mind when considering plans for the make up and clothing.

 

6. Secure the decorations

Whether you are opting for vast sprays of floral arrangements or have a vintage bunting aesthetic, you will need to ensure your decorations are entirely secured so the weather does not potentially carry them off.

 

Lanier Islands: The perfect lakeside wedding venue

Lanier Islands is one of Georgia’s most gorgeous lakeside wedding venues. Just an hour drive from Atlanta, we are easily accessible and provide the perfect tranquil setting for your special day. You can enjoy our breathtaking views, and rest assured that our staff will take the very best care of you and each of your guests throughout your big day.

 

With 1,200 acres of land and multiple options for wedding venues, there is bound to be something that fits within your vision and suits your number of guests. We will tailor the entire event to your wishes, so you can make your dream wedding aspirations come true. 

 

Contact us today to take the first step towards planning your dream lakeside wedding!