April showers are bringing May flowers as we spring into summer, and I am so excited for some warm weather and summer fun. How about you?!
If you’re planning to get married in a summer month, here are some tips and tricks on how to stay cool during those hot summer months. While you may be thinking about how beautifully sunny and warm the weather might be, being dressed in formal attire can sometimes be stifling, overheating, and dehydrating.
No fear! I’m here to help wrangle mother nature back to her rightful place with some great options to keep your guests cool and your wedding the vision you’ve always imagined.
Venue – Indoor or Outdoor?
Many venues in the summer months offer air conditioning and indoor/outdoor options 
to help you and your guests stay sweat-free. Consider hosting your ceremony/cocktail hour under covering or in the shade if you’re staying outdoors and host your dinner and dancing indoors. Just be mindful of the seats you choose for your ceremony as metal or black can maintain heat and burn!
If you are planning to remain outside or under a tent, be sure to invest in high-quality portable fans or portable air conditioner units so that your party guests don’t leave early to escape the heat. Offering additional seating, cooling gadgets, sunscreen and fans can always help stave off the heat and leave the fire for the dance floor. 😉
(Images by Lauren Nievod Photography)
Dressed to the Nines:
If being married outside in the summer air is your plan, be sure your wedding party (and wedding guests) are aware of your intentions. No one would enjoy showing up in a tweed or formal suit only to realize they’ll be sweating it off all evening. Encourage lightweight cotton or breathable fabrics for your guests, and while shopping for wedding gowns, consider fabrics that breathe. While those laced long sleeves may look dreamy, be mindful that temps may be in the 80s or 90s on the day you wed!
Another quick word of advice – please consider your shoe choice! We’ve all been to weddings in heels that have become grass-stained due to unsolid ground. If you’ll be holding hands in the garden, flats may be a more comfortable option.
Speaking of gardens…
Florals make a lovely addition to any tablescape and can really enhance the look and feel of your theme. That being said, your florist will have some awesome options and alternatives for your big day, but fresh blooms without a water source just don’t do well in the summer heat. Consider opting for floral arrangements in vases or double yours and your bridesmaids’ bouquets as centerpieces as a special touch to your guests’ tables.
Additionally, opt for barrettes or decorative hairpieces instead of florals in your hair…just in case!
Dinner and Dancing:
Your guests will need extra hydration to deal with that heat and, while beautiful summer nights make for some amazing photos, be sure to offer enough water to go around in case your guests need to rehydrate after enjoying some adult beverages.
Make sure you choose a professional caterer who has worked hundreds of weddings – including summer seasons – as they will have some wonderful lighter menu options to consider. This reduces the risk of spoilage while also offering your guests something light and easy to snack on while enjoying your wedding. Serving dishes full of heavy, rich, and creamy dishes may be tempting, but opting for lighter summer items like cold, refreshing vegetable options and fruity side dishes will be more welcome when enjoying dancing the night away.
Also, offering frozen beverage options can be a nice touch and will keep your guests enjoying the bar menu without becoming overheated.
Summer weddings are truly some of my favorites! The long evenings, gorgeous sunsets, and beautiful weather make for something truly magical. Taking the time to consider these contributing factors to your day will make your guests comfortable and keep their minds off the heat and on to enjoying your wedding day with you.
I’ve worked many different weddings and they are all as unique as your love! If you’d like to discuss summer wedding (or any season!) day plans, I’d love to help!
Call 410-978-2048 or email me and we’ll get started!
