Tulips, Tents, and Timing: Secrets to a Midwest Spring Wedding

Planning a spring wedding in the Midwest is like planning a beautiful outdoor garden party with a "just-in-case" backup plan always in your back pocket. It’s a season of renewal and vibrant beauty, but it also brings unique factors to navigate carefully. Here’s what I always keep in mind when working with couples for a spring celebration:

Weather is Unpredictable — Have a Backup Plan You Love.

Spring in the Midwest can be stunning — tulips blooming, trees budding — but it can just as easily bring a chilly snap, high winds, or sudden thunderstorms. At Blue Llama Events, we always recommend that couples love their backup plan just as much as their first choice. That way, no matter where the day takes us, it still feels intentional, beautiful, and worthy of the celebration. We typically:

• Secure a tent with sidewalls and heating options if planning outdoors.

• Develop a fully fleshed-out indoor plan, not just a vague idea.

• Keep extra umbrellas on hand for guests and vendors.

Ground Conditions Matter.

Even if the sun is shining, spring rain earlier in the week can leave lawns soggy and parking lots muddy. We often:

• Lay down flooring or pathways for outdoor ceremonies or receptions.

• Recommend sturdy footwear for wedding parties — think chunky heels or even cute rain boots for photos.

• Confirm solid parking surfaces and shuttle options for guests.

Floral Opportunities (and Challenges)

Spring brings some of the most breathtaking blooms — peonies, ranunculus, lilacs — but timing is everything. I guide clients to:

• Choose a floral palette flexible enough to pivot based on what’s available that week.

• Trust their florist to source the freshest local or regional blooms, even if it means adjusting from the initial vision.

Allergies and Comfort

Pollen counts can be high in the spring, so we factor in guest comfort by:

• Offering tissues and mini hand sanitizers at guest tables or in welcome bags.

• Considering indoor cocktail hours if ceremonies are outdoors, giving guests a breather from allergens.

Temperature Swings — Dress Smart.

One April weekend might feel like July, the next like October. I suggest:

• Advising guests on layered dress codes ("Spring Formal — Bring a Wrap!")

• Having cozy amenities like throw blankets for evening receptions or patio heaters on standby.

Vendor Bookings and Holidays

Spring can overlap with holidays like Easter, Mother's Day, and graduations, making vendor and venue availability a bit tighter. I always:

• Encourage early booking of key vendors, especially tents

• Build extra time into the weekend timeline if local traffic or holiday crowds are factors.

Embracing the Beauty of the Season

When it all comes together, a spring wedding in the Midwest can feel magical — blooming gardens, longer golden hours, and a sense of joyful beginnings. We lean into:

• Seasonal menus (think lighter fare, fresh produce).

• Soft, romantic color palettes that echo the natural surroundings.

• Flexible, gracious planning that celebrates the beauty (and quirks) of springtime.

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