Weddings at sunset are quite romantic and very popular for this reason. However, this requires some planning since the duration of sunset is limited on a daily basis. In addition, the timing of sunset varies from season to season and with geographic location. Here are a few planning suggestions to make the most of sunset at any venue.
Venue, Venue, Venue
Realtors often say, “Location, location, location.” While this phrase has become seemingly cliché, its meaning, which varies from buyer to buyer holds true: Location is the most important factor in a home’s value. In a similar manner, the geographic location of any venue impacts its ability to offer a great sunset wedding. To have a sunset wedding, you must of course find a venue location amenable to a great sunset wedding. Lake Serenity Ranch is a great venue location for a great sunset weddings. If you are not at Lake Serenity Ranch, you need to select a venue location which has a great outdoor venue with open views—like a beach or a mountaintop.
Timing is Everything.
To make the most of a stunning sunset on your wedding day, picking the right time is essential. Sunset times change throughout the year: they happen earlier in fall and winter, and later in spring and summer. Be sure to check the sunset schedule for your wedding date and location. Your should plan your ceremony timing to align with the sunset. Most sunset lasts about 30 minutes. To take advantage of this, you should plan your ceremony to end just before sunset. Be sure to check how long the ceremony will be to schedule an adequate start time. You should be ending the ceremony at the start of sunset to catch the first beautiful glow at the first kiss. Thereafter, you should be using the following 30 minutes for portraits and a smooth transition to cocktail hour. Your guest would also love the opportunity to have beautiful sunset photo.
Guest Arrival ad Seating: The duration of your guest arrival and seating affects your ability to start your ceremony timely. You must therefore allowed sufficient time for your guest arrival and all to be seated prior to the start time. You would need to provide yourself a generous time for guest arrival and seating, especially if having a large wedding. If you are likely to have guest waiting for more than 30 minutes, you should consider providing some comfort to them. A water station would be great, and perhaps some music for your guest enjoyment.
Other considerations for a great sunset wedding:
- Talk to your photographer-Discuss the best times to capture moments before and after the ceremony for the best lighting. Discuss the locations of your photos. Many venue have great spots and you should know the great spots for photos ahead of time so that you do not miss your opportunities.
- Guest comfort is important. Consider a ceremony location where guest are not looking directly at the sunset. Consider giving sunglasses to guests so they can enjoy the ceremony without squinting. If you think it would be too cold for guest seating outdoors, Your should consider providing outdoor heaters or pashminas/blankets to keep everyone warm.
- Sunset-themed ceremony decor – The idea here is to enhance the sunset, and not overshadow it. Use a color palette inspired by sunset hues—like oranges, pinks, and golds—along with some blue to reflect the sky. You could line the aisle with lanterns and flowers in these vibrant colors, and create a floral arch that matches the theme.
- Sunset Themed Reception Decor – Use blue table linens paired with orange and pink floral arrangements. Add warm lighting with taper candles and string lights for a cozy atmosphere.
- Other Sun-Themed Details -Consider incorporating sun illustrations into your invitations, welcome signs, ceremony programs, seating charts, and menus to tie the sunset theme throughout your celebration.
Happy Planning
