The major perks of an outdoor wedding include the limitlessly high ceilings at your reception and the naturally beautiful backdrops for your ceremony. The trick is to define that open space into areas that still feel intimate and inviting. A decorated gateway leading to the ceremony seating or twinkling bistro lights over the dinner tables break up the great outdoors into manageable areas for guests. Here are 9 ways to divide your outdoor wedding space into comfortable areas and still maintain that amazing airiness of your outdoor venue.

1. Make the entrance to your ceremony space special (think: repurposed doors, potted trees or a draped trellis).

Dani Stephenson Photography

2. Follow the natural boundaries of your space by using existing shrubs, rocks and tree lines.

Harrison Studio

From the album: A Rustic Elegant Wedding in Grand Rapids, MI

3. Line your aisle petals, potted plants or fabric.

SMS Photography

From the album: A Glamorous Wedding in Austin, TX

4. Elevate your ceremony altar.

Gaby J Photography

From the album: A Springs Preserve Wedding in Las Vegas, Nevada

5. Create a focal point with clustered floral arrangements.

SayBre Photography

From the album: A Garden Charm Wedding in Lilburn, GA

6. Anchor your ceremony site with a tall tree. (Bonus points for hanging lanterns!)

Shipra Panosian Photography

7. Lead guests between the outdoor ceremony and reception with a decorated walkway.

Caitlin Thomas Photography

8. Hang string lights over the dinner tables.

EyeWonder Photography

From the album: An Old World Styled Hindu Wedding in Washington, DC

9. Hang unique decor in various sizes around your outdoor reception space (like these dreamcatchers!).

Studio Austin Weddings

From the album: A Natural Outdoor Wedding in Austin, TX