Karina O'Donnell from Simply Ceremonies shares the benefits of an outdoor wedding

Credit: Jeff Oliver Photography

This issue we asked the county's experts for the advice on tying the knot al fresco. Celebrant Karina O'Donnell from Simply Ceremonies (https://celebrant-uk.co.uk) says the main benefit is being able to take advantge of the natural beauty of your surroundings.

She continues: Whether this is a beach setting, mountain backdrop or stunning gardens. Being somewhere that has meaning to you can create a more romantic and intimate setting for you both, and obviously makes for stunning photographs. Weddings held outside often offer more flexibility in terms of the number of guests you need to seat, as well as in your choice of décor. You can really bring your personality into the ceremony too with stunning floral arches and backdrops, which really fit the scenery. You can save on décor and lighting costs too as the natural beauty of your surroundings can provide a lot of the ambience.

Spending time outdoors has been shown to have several health benefits, such as reducing stress and improving mood. Plus, an al fresco wedding can provide a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for you and your guests.

Choosing a unique setting can create unforgettable memories to cherish for years to come. It's important to remember that outdoor weddings bring their own challenges though, such as inclement weather or accessibility issues but with proper planning, they can be beautiful and memorable.