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Dreaming of saying “I do” under open skies? Outdoor ceremonies can be a perfect setting– especially on a gorgeous summer’s day. But as everyone knows, our Irish weather likes to keep us guessing! That’s why planning an outdoor wedding ceremony in Dublin requires a mix of romance and realism.
At Lucan Spa Hotel, we’ve helped countless couples plan stunning outdoor ceremonies, and we know what works (and what doesn’t). Here are our top dos and don’ts to help you get it right.
✅ DO Have a Solid Plan B
This is Ireland. Even in summer, sunshine can turn to showers in minutes. We always recommend having a weather-proof backup option that you love just as much as your outdoor setting – whether that’s an indoor ceremony space or a covered outdoor area.
Even if the weather is fabulous during your ceremony, be conscious of previous poor weather and its impact on your location. A soft wet ground or raindrops falling from trees may not be appreciated by you or your guests
Tip: Ask your venue how quickly a plan B setup can be arranged on the day, just in case any last-minute call needs to be made.
❌ DON’T Leave Weather to Luck
Hope for sunshine, but plan for drizzle. Check historic weather patterns for your chosen date, and keep a close eye on forecasts the week before. That way, you can prepare your guests and suppliers for any shifts.
Pro tip: Umbrellas and shawls in your wedding colours make thoughtful and practical favours.
Photo: Trendphotography.ie
✅ DO Choose the Right Time of Day
Even on a good day, temperatures can dip quickly in the early morning or late evening. Aim for a midday to early afternoon ceremony, when light and warmth are more reliable. Be conscious of the sun direction during your ceremony time – the last thing you want is photos full of squinting eyes or unideal shadows due to the sun’s glare.
Bonus: This timing also allows guests to move smoothly from ceremony to drinks reception.
❌ DON’T Forget About Sound
In an open space, wind, birdsong, and background noise can drown out your vows. Be sure your celebrant uses a microphone, and check if your venue can supply a PA system suitable for outdoor use. Check the accessibility of running out cables for electrical sockets, or use portable equipment with back-up batteries where necessary.
Photo: Lucan Spa Hotel.
✅ DO Dress for the Setting
Let your wedding party know to prepare for outdoor conditions. Brides might opt for a sturdier heel or add a wrap or cape to stay warm. Grooms may want to avoid heavy suits if it’s midsummer (or consider lighter layers that can be removed if the sun shows up!)
❌ DON’T Overlook Accessibility
Is your outdoor spot easily accessible for elderly guests or those with mobility issues? Will chairs sink into grass or become uneven on gravel? Is it level for wheelchair users? Being aware of your guests’ unique requests will allow you plan for their comfort.
Photo: Any and Keith.
✅ DO Embrace the Atmosphere
Our own woodland wedding setting here at Lucan Spa Hotel offers a stunning backdrop for your day. Lean into the natural setting with minimalist florals, acoustic music, and rustic décor that complements the landscape.
❌ DON’T Underestimate Permits or Permissions
If you're hosting your ceremony outside of a licensed venue (like a public park or private estate), make sure you've secured the necessary permissions. We’ve heard some disaster stories from guests seeking use of public spaces such as the Phoenix Park. The advantage of choosing a hotel with outdoor space? We take care of all of that for you.
✅ DO Inform all your necessary wedding suppliers
It’s so important to inform all the necessary external wedding suppliers of your plans for an outdoor ceremony, including your solemniser, musicians and any décor companies. Let them know also if there is a plan B in relation to weather, so they can ensure to be set irrelevant of the venue.
A Final Word from Our Team
Outdoor ceremonies in Dublin can be truly breathtaking – especially when the sun makes a surprise appearance! At Lucan Spa Hotel, we offer a beautiful outdoor ceremony space in our private woodland forest as well as elegant indoor options to ensure that, no matter the forecast, your ceremony runs smoothly.
Our wedding team is always happy to help you design a ceremony that’s personal, practical, and unforgettable – rain or shine. Enquire about hosting your wedding day at Lucan Spa Hotel here.