AND WHY WE LOVE THEM!
We may be partial, as most of the Abernethy team was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, but we’re thoroughly convinced this is the country's most beautiful place to live and get married! As lovers of nature, we’re especially fond of outdoor weddings because they allow you to make the magical landscape part of your wedding day decor. Our area is known for towering pines, oaks, fir trees, and a lush ground cover of ferns, vines, and wildflowers.
Yet despite it all, we still hear from couples who are apprehensive about tackling an outdoor wedding in Oregon because of the unpredictability around precipitation. Yes, we’re talking about rain! Rain on one’s wedding day is a classic fear, and it can definitely be an inconvenience, but here in Portland, rain is more something to embrace than worry about. Let’s face it, we’re used to carrying on in the rain. It doesn’t stop us in daily life, so why should it stop you when planning a wedding? We have a pragmatic perspective. Rain on your wedding day is always possible, but it shouldn’t cramp your style. Here at Abernethy Center, we've got you covered! Keep reading to learn more.
PICKING THE PERFECT SEASON FOR YOUR OUTDOOR WEDDING
Oregon’s mild weather allows us to host outdoor weddings eight months out of the year. Each season has a predictable character in terms of weather and overall vibe, so picking the right season for you is the top consideration when planning an outdoor wedding. To help you make the choice we’ve compiled the key info and some insider tips for each season. Read with an open heart and mind -- you might be surprised by what season feels the most inspiring.
SPRING WEDDINGS IN OREGON
Spring draws playful and adventurous couples. It’s the season of fresh blossoms, crisp air, and unpredictable weather. The season has a feeling of newness that’s not present at any other time of year. People are ready to emerge from winter. Nature’s new growth offers hopeful beauty; the air smells like rain, and crisp blue skies signal that the days are getting longer. Couples who choose outdoors in spring are ready to embrace the weather and can make it part of the celebration with a little planning and preparation. These are true Oregonian weddings with a rugged, go-with-the-flow vibe. It may not be for everyone, but those up for the adventure get some serious perks. Venue rental rates and catering minimums are considerably lower in the spring than in the summer, and there’s less competition for dates and vendors.
SUMMER WEDDINGS IN OREGON
Summer is the classic outdoor wedding season! It’s the season of sunshine and staying out late with cool evening breezes, majestic pink sunsets, and only occasional rain. Summer days in Oregon City are practically perfect, with an average temperature of 85 degrees and little to no humidity. Not surprisingly, summer is our peak season with the most competition for dates and vendors. Weekend wedding dates are typically booked at least a year in advance, so sun-seekers need to plan ahead. It also helps to be flexible. Getting married on a weekday in the summer will open up the options and save you some cash in the process.
FALL WEDDINGS IN OREGON
The vibe of Fall weddings can vary from cozy & romantic to alternative & edgy; with the backdrop of mild weather and brightly colored foliage. The season has a sense of warmth as people begin to make plans for the holidays and look forward to a new year. Like Spring, venue rental fees and catering minimums are lower in the Fall when compared to summer, and the sun is still out most days. Fall weather is a mix of alternating sunshine and clouds with crisp air and moderate rain. The foliage around Abernethy turns bright red and gold, with dried leaves wafting along the garden paths. The property has a magical aura, so Fall weddings tend to draw couples who want their celebration to stand out.
NOT SURE WHAT SEASON IS BEST FOR YOU?
Let our Event Specialists help you figure it out. They know the questions to ask and what to listen for to help you discover your season.Â
You can rest assured knowing Abernethy Center always has a rain plan.
VEILED GARDEN RAIN PLAN:
Couples who choose the Veiled Garden for their ceremony site also get the Chapel as part of their venue rental, allowing you to move the wedding indoors if the weather is too wet for your comfort level. Couples have until a few hours before the ceremony to switch to their chapel rain plan, just in case you’re hoping for a lucky break in the clouds.
ABIGAIL’S GARDEN RAIN PLAN:
If needed, we can easily move your wedding ceremony under the rainproof reception tent. The tent is equipped with both heaters and fans to keep your guests comfortable. We monitor the forecast closely and contact couples a few days before the wedding if it looks like we’ll need to move to the rain plan.
PREPARING TO KEEP YOUR WEDDING GUESTS COMFORTABLE
Portland lies in a temperate rainforest climate zone, so there’s a chance of sprinkles, even during our sunniest months. A big piece of weather preparedness is choosing a venue that has expertise in outdoor weddings and the dedication to help you execute your vision regardless of the weather. There are also some general supplies all couples should have on hand for an outdoor wedding in Oregon.
UMBRELLAS
Purchase clear umbrellas for the bridal party. They’re very affordable through Amazon Prime, and you can always upcycle to a friend who’s getting married if you don’t need them. An added benefit is that they look adorable in photos!
WEDDING ATTIRE: LAYERING IS YOUR KEY TO COMFORT IN SPRING AND FALL
Since temperatures can be unpredictable, consider layering your wedding day look with stylish or unique accessories. Brides - choose a faux fur shrug, hand-knit sweater, or personalized leather jacket to wear over your wedding gown. The bridal over-layer is a fun trend and allows you to show some fashion flair! Pick a piece that feels good and accentuates your gown's elegance or edginess.
EMBRACE THE WEATHER AND BE FLEXIBLE
Once you’ve picked your date thoughtfully and prepared diligently, the only thing left is to enjoy! You’re ready to celebrate no matter what Mother Nature throws your way, and you have the whole Abernethy team behind you! If there is anything that I can leave you with, it’s this. It’s something I preach to you often: at the end of the day, the most important factor of your wedding is that you two joined together in the most beautiful way, and absolutely nothing, not even a little rain, can rain on your parade!