The Do’s and Dont’s for Summer Weddings

August 14, 2018 / Planning, Wedding Advice / By:

The height of wedding season is June through September, spanning the hottest months out of the year. We know your love is burning hot, but your reception should be as comfortable as it can be despite the heat. Unpredictable weather, unwanted guests and other unexpected challenges might impact your big day. Below, you’ll find our ultimate list of summer wedding do’s and don’t for managing these situations, including others that you might not have thought of.

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

DON’T Leave Anything to Chance

Have a backup plan. Too often we cross our fingers and hope for the best, but the unseasonal rainshower or scorching hot day happens, leaving you scrambling for a solution. Booking a venue that has a combined indoor/outdoor space is a good workaround for any unforeseen issues. If outside is unbearable– move the party indoors. Work with your venue to figure out a plan B prior to your wedding, that way you won’t be caught off guard and have to divert your focus from enjoying the day.

You might think it’s easier to simply book an indoor venue to be on the safe side but you worry about losing ambience. Not to worry! There are many, many ways to bring the outdoors indoors.

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Greenery and plenty of seasonal color create a summery feel without subjecting your guests to the elements.

Photo via JunebugWeddings.com

DO Take Precautions

That being said, you still need to take precautions. Sun protection is essential. It’s recommended that brides apply ample sunscreen throughout the day to avoid burning (especially if you’re wearing a sleeveless or backless gown) and wear foundation loaded with SPF.

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That being said, even if you opt for an outdoor wedding you still need somewhere to duck and cover. Consider renting a tent, and if you want to go a step further, rent an air conditioning unit for it.

Priscilla Thomas Photography via WeddingWire.com

 

DON’T Forget About Your Guests

This is your biggest concern. Offer your guests protection from the sun, whether it be from fans as wedding favors, strategically placed chilled water bottle stations, or rented ac units for your tent.  Having multiple ways to escape summer heat is paramount in keeping guests happy, so it’s a good idea to have several options such as water, tea, and lemonade.

 

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Set your beverages up classically in self-serve containers, or go with something a little more fun with individual bottles displayed in something that fits your event’s style and theme.

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Want to be the best bride ever? Stock your venue’s restrooms with amenities– an assortment of mints and hard candies, wipes, sprays, and deodorant will give guests the ability to freshen up throughout the evening. A little help goes a long way to making a solid impression.

 

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Also, citronella candles. Because bugs. It is summer, people, the last thing you want is pesky, bitey insects literally bugging your guests. Citronella candles are not only decorative but a complete must for an outdoor event at the height of summer.

Photo via CandleScience.com

 

DO Plan Ahead

Summer is wedding season, but it’s also travel season. Send out your save the date’s early to give people enough time to respond and prepare– this is especially important if you’re having a destination wedding. Work with local hotels to book blocks of rooms months in advance (this is especially helpful for your bridal party/groomsmen.)

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DON’T Go To Heavy

Keep in mind that going light includes your comfort too. If the gown you choose is lightweight it’ll save you a lot of sweat and tears (but mostly sweat) on the day of.

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

That goes for your groom as well. Lose the jacket if you’d like and let your loved one breathe! You don’t have to sacrifice charm for comfort. Or if you like the fitted suit look go for a lighter jacket and lighter colors such as blues and cremes so it won’t be as hot.

 

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

Photo via Pinterest.com

Still wanting to dress things up a bit? Go tie-less. A nice, lightweight jacket and matching trousers will be all he needs.

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

DO Take Care of Your Food

This should be a no-brainer. Food + heat+ time = illness. You want everyone to enjoy your perfect day, not spend the evening or following morning battling stomach issues. It’s a safety concern but it’s also a presentation thing, especially for foods that are meant to be served cold or chilled. It’s best to move these foods indoors or clear them away altogether once the meal has ended. Take extra care of your cake as well. You want to keep it in a cool, dry place until it’s time to cut and devour.

Photo via Blogspot.com

 

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

Keeping things light in all aspects is the secret to winning at a summer wedding. It’s no different when it comes to your food. Dinner that is comprised of lighter fare will not weigh down or overheat your guests. It’s also fun to sprinkle in seasonal treats that are locally sourced!

 

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Food that fits the time of year is a winner. Sliders or bacon wrapped noms are perfect for keeping the easy feel of summer alive and well.

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If you want something more formal fare, seafood or kabobs can be an option for you. However these are can be susceptible to bacteria growth, so limiting their exposure to sunlight and time outdoors is crucial.

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

Photo via Pinterest.com

 

DO Keep Time of Day in Mind

Peak heat is late morning and early afternoon. Consider hosting your ceremony in the early evening to segue nicely into the cool calm of night. You’ll be more comfortable, your bridal party will be grateful, and your guests will thank you. Plus a starlit evening ambience is perfect for more sophisticated summer weddings.

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Planning ahead will ensure that your summer nuptials are perfect, and when it comes time to say “I Do” you’ll be glad you took the time to do so.

 

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