Chances are you’ve dreamed of your wedding day most of your life, and we’re willing to bet those dreams didn’t include bugs crashing the ceremony.
While outdoor weddings are beautiful, you’ll probably want to protect against pesky bugs if you’re planning on having one yourself. Read on for some handy tips for helping keep bugs away on your wedding day.
Talk to your venue
As you’re touring wedding venues, ask about their treatment plan for bugs. Don’t be afraid to ask them about the last time they had the venue sprayed and what they’ll do to help ensure your wedding is free of pests. Even if you’ve already selected your venue, it’s not too late to give them a call and ask.
You can also reach out to other couples and ask them about their experience with the venue. Ask the venue for a list of references or use social media and review sites to find a couple that was recently married at a particular venue. However, it’s important to note that just because one couple didn’t have a bug issue at their wedding doesn’t mean that you won’t have an issue. And just because a couple did have a bug issue at their wedding doesn’t mean that you will as well. Though knowing this information can help in your decision-making, there are many factors at play, like time of year and weather, among others.
Consider your flowers
While the idea that there are some flowers that repel bugs has been floating around the internet, the truth is, it’s the oils of certain plants that can help repel bugs, not the plant itself. However, the more fragrant a flower is, the more likely that bees and other insects will be attracted to it.
Incorporate bug-repelling items into your decor
Rather than hide the fact you’re trying to prevent insects at your wedding, simply incorporate insect-repelling items into your wedding décor. One easy idea is to provide bug spray for guests to apply. (here are some tips on how to choose the right one.) You can gather the spray bottles in decorative baskets grouped along the aisle or on a table with your guest book and a decorative sign asking guests to spray away.
And if you’re considering using citronella candles on the tables, you may want to reconsider. A recent study found that citronella candles have no effect on mosquitoes. If you’re looking for a candle to help keep bugs away, your best bet might be unscented candles or even the battery-operated electronic ones.
Strategically placed boxed fans could also help in these efforts.
Check in with your caterer
Help get rid of flies around your food when you're outdoors by working with your caterer to come up with some food-safe pest control solutions. Make sure the caterer has a plan to keep food covered and carefully monitored. Also, be sure that trash cans aren’t located close to the food.
Use these tips to help keep bugs away during your outdoor wedding and enjoy your big day.
