Adapting Love: Navigating Wildfire Smoke at an Outdoor Wedding

For couples residing in the PNW or eloping to this beautiful area of the USA, this time of year often yields what locals have begun to call, “the 5th season” -- a season where local wildfires are battled, and air quality is less than ideal. If your wedding day is just around the corner, and your venue is outdoors, try your best not to stress about the air quality. While yes, this is something easier said than done, unfortunately, the weather patterns and smoke density is something that no one can control. Also remember, that your guests understand this, they realize the weather is out of your hands, and ultimately, they are coming to your wedding to celebrate you and your partner’s union and commitment to each other.  

If you're planning an outdoor wedding and there is significant smoke from wildfires in the area, it's important to prioritize the health and safety of your guests and yourself. Here are some steps you can take: 

Monitor Air Quality: Keep a close eye on air quality reports for your location. Websites and apps like AirNow (airnow.gov) provide real-time air quality information.  

Stay Informed: Keep your guests informed about the situation. Send out regular updates via email, text, or a wedding website. Let them know about the potential for smoky conditions and any accommodations you may have. 

Provide Protective Measures: If you decide to proceed with an outdoor wedding, consider providing N95 masks or other types of face masks to your guests. This can help protect them from inhaling smoke particles, and is a polite gesture for those attending. 

Air Purification: If feasible, rent or purchase air purifiers to place around the event area. These can help improve air quality to some extent and make the environment more comfortable for your guests. 

Offer Cooling Stations: Set up cooling stations with fans and water to help guests stay comfortable. Smoky conditions can exacerbate heat, so ensuring your guests stay hydrated and cool is important. 

Consult with Professionals: Reach out to local authorities, event planners, and other professionals who can provide guidance on how to handle the situation. They may have valuable insights & recommendations. 

Your wedding is intended to be one of the most memorable and lovely moments of your life. However, if wildfires are in your area, and the smoke and air quality is intense enough that it jeopardizes the safety of you and your guests, considering postponement is always an option. While this can be extremely disappointing, safety should always be the top priority. Epoch Events thanks all wildland firefighters and first responders, battling the wildfires across the West Coast. Thank you.