Expert Advice from wedding guru, Sharon Naylor

Answer:

Hello! I wrote you privately on this question, but I'd like to share my answer here to help your fellow WeddingMappers:

Whenever you're touring multiple outdoor sites, always ask the site manager for some extra information:
1. Can we see photos of the grounds as they will be in bloom during the season of our wedding? In spring, maybe those cherry blossom trees will be in full bloom, and so you won't need extra decor.
2. Ask what the site already does to decorate. Some will put flowers on the outdoor bistro tables for the cocktail party, some will take care of the flowers for the cocktail party room, and some will string garlands on terrace fencing. Ask to see photos, and see what they consider standard. It may be enough!
3. Ask what's not allowed on the grounds before you think about investing in outdoor decor. Many sites won't allow tiki torches or anything hung from their trees.
4. Ask if the site has benches and tables and chairs, or extra decor items like wrought-iron elevated centerpiece holders in their stockroom that you can negotiate to use for free. Many places are happy to help you decorate on a budget, or for free, so that your guests are so impressed with how nice the place looks, they want to book it for their own events.
5. Find out what time sunset is in May, and if the sunset colors will add to the outdoor beauty.