‘I Do’ Without the Sneezes: Your Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding During Hay Fever Season

At Lazy River Estate, our renowned riverside ceremony site offers a stunning backdrop for couples ready to say "I do." Imagine your big day set against a sunlit vineyard and tranquil riverbank—a dream come true for many! However, if your wedding falls during hay fever season, you might encounter some challenges with high pollen counts and allergy symptoms. But don’t worry! With a little extra planning, you can ensure your outdoor wedding is both beautiful and comfortable. Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating hay fever season and making your outdoor wedding a success.

Timing is Everything: Pollen levels fluctuate throughout the day, with early mornings and late afternoons generally seeing higher counts. To minimise exposure, aim to schedule your ceremony for late afternoon when pollen levels are usually lower. Keep an eye on local pollen forecasts as your wedding day approaches to choose the optimal time.

Choose Low-Allergy Flowers and Decorations: Flowers add a touch of magic to any outdoor wedding, but some blooms can exacerbate allergies. Opt for low-allergy flowers like roses, orchids, and peonies, and steer clear of high-pollen varieties such as daisies and sunflowers. If you're particularly concerned, chat to your florist for their expertise advice!

Prepare Allergy Relief Stations: Adding a unique touch to your celebration, set up allergy relief stations around the venue for guests who might need them. Provide essentials like tissues, hand sanitizers, and over-the-counter allergy medications. Consider placing signs like "See our wedding coordinator Belle for your sneeze relief" to guide your guests and keep everyone comfortable.

Create Allergy-Friendly Zones: Make use of any shaded or covered areas at our outdoor venue. Set up comfortable seating and cooling stations where guests can retreat if they start feeling the effects of hay fever. Portable fans and air conditioning can help reduce allergen exposure. A charming addition could be custom hand-held fans for guests to use during the ceremony! Ask us about this enhancement!

Opt for Allergy-Friendly Catering: Be mindful of your guests' dietary needs when selecting your menu. Choose dishes that are less likely to provoke allergies and provide a variety of options to accommodate different dietary requirements. Offering a diverse menu ensures everyone can enjoy the meal without worry.

Communicate with Your Guests: Inform your guests ahead of time that your wedding will be held outdoors during hay fever season. This allows them to prepare with their own allergy medications and dress accordingly. Include this information in your wedding invitations or on a dedicated wedding website.

Dress for the Occasion: Consider the practicality of your wedding attire given the outdoor setting. Lightweight and breathable fabrics will keep you comfortable. Brides might opt for a shawl or wrap that can be easily removed if pollen counts rise. Ensure your groom and bridal party are dressed appropriately for the weather and environment. Also, let guests know that while the river setting is beautiful, spring evenings can still be fresh.

Plan for Unpredictable Weather: Outdoor weddings can be impacted by unpredictable weather, including high pollen counts. Have a backup plan ready, such as a nearby indoor venue or a large tent, to provide shelter if needed. Planning for the worst-case scenario—like rain—ensures that your celebration can continue smoothly regardless of the weather. Umbrellas work well for sunny days and chilled water is a lovely touch to add another layer of comfort for your guests

Enjoy the Moment! Despite the extra planning required, remember that your outdoor wedding is a celebration of your love and commitment. Embrace the natural beauty of Lazy River Estate and focus on the joy of sharing this special day with your loved ones.

With thoughtful preparation and these practical tips, you can enjoy the stunning outdoor setting while minimising the impact of hay fever. Here’s to a beautiful, allergen-free celebration that you and your guests will cherish for years to come!