How do we plan a backup for an outdoor wedding?

Standard outdoor-venue backup plan:

1. Tent on hold. Many tent rental companies offer a "weather hold" — you reserve a tent at a fraction of the price (usually $200-400) and only pay full if you confirm 48-72 hours out. If you don't confirm, you're out the deposit. If you confirm, you're covered. Ask about this specifically.

1. Decision deadline + decision maker. Pick ONE person (you, your planner, the venue manager) who decides "tent yes/no" by a specific time on the wedding day or day before. Don't leave it to a vote.

1. Communication plan. If the call is "tent up," who tells: caterer, photographer, DJ, florist, transportation, guests. You need a phone tree pre-built.

1. Indoor option even if just for the ceremony. Most outdoor venues have SOMETHING indoors — a barn, a covered porch, a great hall. Confirm it can hold your ceremony guest count + chairs. Even if it's ugly, it works for 30 minutes.

The phrase "we've never had to cancel" is meaningless. Plan for it anyway. The planning costs $300-500. Not planning costs everything.