Wedding Forum - Anyone come across this reception idea?...

So i am planning for my wedding in June 2016 and we both like the idea of renting a nice open space and having a massive picnic for lunch then something like a bbq or hog roast in the evening. We will rent a marquee so if it does pour down then we can still have a great time indoors. I was wondering has anyone done this for their wedding or anyone been to one like this and how did it work out and also did it still feel special even though it wasn't a massive 3 course sit down meal?

This is what we wanted to do, we even had a friend that said we could use his field for free but unfortunately everything else worked out rather expensive. We needed a marque, furniture, toilets, etc & after receiving numerous expensive quotes we gave up on that idea :(

I think it would be lovely, if the weather was good. There's is a lot to think about though; it's not just as simple as hiring some open space. You need to think about some form of shelter eg a marquee, seating (sitting on the ground absolutely kills my back; I'd be really unimpressed if it was an actual picnic (no chairs/benches)), access (if it's in a field, how will guests get there? If it rains, people aren't going to be too happy tramping through a muddy field in their nice shoes and clothes), and toilets.

As MrsRobson2b said, this type of event can work out really expensive, so be aware of that. We looked into marquee hire for my parents anniversary party and we're quote about £2.5k (and I shopped around and contacted quite a few companies) for hire of a small marquee with the most basic flooring and lighting, and with chairs and tables for 30.

Thank you everyone. You have brought up some points which I have thought of but also sides of them i hadn't thought of.

I don't know where you're from, but one venue I looked at is Lanwades Hall. It has space for having your Wedding breakfast outside in the beautiful sunken gardens, which is exactly what I want, although if it does rain, you can eat inside the lovely room inside, but max guests for sit down is only 70.. But on a sunny day, you're laughing! Maybe worth a try if you liked it? X

I think it is a fantastic idea. It'll take a lot of effort to put together but it would be unforgettable wedding.

I love the sound of what you're thinking of. I've been to a very informal reception where the couple didn't have a wedding breakfast but just did a buffet in a function room at a local golf club. It was nice as it reflected their style and personalities.