Summer weddings are popular for good reason – the longer days, golden sunsets and outdoor ceremony potential make for a stunning backdrop to say “I do.” But while the warm weather offers plenty of perks, it also comes with a few unique considerations!
If you’re planning a summer celebration, here are our top tips to help you make the most of the season (and keep your guests comfortable and happy along the way).
Choosing The Right Venue For Your Summer Wedding
Your wedding venue will set the tone for your entire day, so you’ll want to make sure it suits the summer climate. Outdoor ceremonies are popular for summer weddings, but you’ll need to be mindful of exposure to sun, wind and unexpected weather changes.
If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, check if your chosen venue has shaded areas or consider hiring a marquee or umbrellas. Having an indoor backup plan is also a good idea – even in the middle of summer, weather can be unpredictable!
Air conditioning is another feature to look out for as you start scouting venues for your summer wedding, so make sure you keep this in mind during your site tours. And on that note, try to schedule your site visits during the summer months if possible, so you can get a real feel for how the space handles the heat.
Simply put: think practically and choose a setting that will keep you (and your guests) cool and comfortable all day long.
Be Smart With Your Ceremony Timing
When it comes to choosing your ceremony start time, aim for the cooler parts of the day. Late afternoon ceremonies are usually the most comfortable, allowing you to avoid the harsh midday heat.
Not only will your guests thank you for it, but your photos will benefit too – the lighting during golden hour is usually softer and more flattering. Read our guide to creating your wedding day timeline here.
Keep Your Guests Comfortable
Nobody wants to feel sticky and uncomfortable in the heat, especially at a wedding! Think ahead about guest comfort and plan a few thoughtful extras to help them stay cool.
Some ideas could be:
- Offering handheld fans, parasols or chilled water bottles at the ceremony
- Providing shaded areas with outdoor tents or umbrellas
- Choosing breathable seating options (like wooden or bamboo chairs over metal)
- Including sunscreen and bug spray in your bathroom baskets
These little touches can go a long way in creating a great guest experience, even on the warmest summer day!
Choose Summer-Appropriate Attire
When it comes to choosing outfits for your bridal party (and yourselves), opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that will suit the warmer temperatures. Linen, cotton, chiffon and organza are all great choices that won’t leave anyone sweating.
As the bride, you might prefer a flowy, less structured silhouette that allows more airflow. And for grooms, a light-coloured suit or even ditching the jacket altogether and opting for suspenders and a dress shirt can still feel polished without the heat factor.
When communicating the dress code to your guests on your wedding website, consider mentioning the temperature so they can dress appropriately. You might say something like: “Summer garden party attire – it can get warm at this time of year, so lightweight fabrics are encouraged!”
Consider a Seasonal Summer Menu
Take advantage of the season by featuring fresh, light, and summery dishes on your menu. Think fresh seafood, seasonal salads, grilled meats and fruity desserts.
Avoid anything too heavy or rich – lighter meals are typically more enjoyable in the heat! You could even consider a food truck or grazing table for a more relaxed summer vibe.
When it comes to drinks, keep things light and refreshing. Spritzes, sparkling wine, fruity cocktails and iced water stations will all be appreciated by your guests.
Pick Flowers That Can Handle The Heat
An important fact to remember when planning a summer wedding? Not all flowers love the summer sun! If you’re having outdoor floral arrangements, choose blooms that are known to be more tolerant to the heat.
Some great summer floral options include orchids, sunflowers, dahlias, proteas and native blooms like banksia or billy buttons. Your florist will be able to guide you on the best choices based on your wedding location and setup.
Bonus tip: If your bouquet will be out in the heat for long periods, ask your florist about preservation methods to keep it looking fresh all day.
Choose Heat-Proof Hair and Makeup
The summer heat can also be tough on hair and makeup, especially if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or portrait session. To ensure your wedding look lasts all day, chat with your hair and makeup artists about heat-resistant options that will hold up in warmer conditions.
Opt for lightweight, long-wear makeup formulas like waterproof mascara and setting sprays to minimize shine and smudging. For hair, think about styles that work well with humidity – for example, an updo might hold up better than sleek, straight styles.
It’s also worth scheduling your trial during the warmer months if possible, so you can test how everything holds up in similar conditions. And don’t forget to have touch-up essentials like blotting papers, powder and hairspray as part of your emergency kit on the day!
Loop Guests In On Your Plans Early
The summer season can be a busy time, and many of your guests may be juggling holidays and travel plans alongside your wedding and other celebrations. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to loop your guests in on your plans as early as possible.
Creating a wedding website makes it easy for your guests to access all the essential information in one place – think event details, dress code, accommodation suggestions, transport options and your gift registry link.
You can also use your website to send RSVP reminders and last-minute updates if needed. It’s one of the easiest ways to keep your planning stress-free and organized, especially in a peak wedding season!
Planning Your Summer Wedding
Summer weddings are full of magic, from golden-hour portraits to long, balmy evenings spent dancing under the stars. With the right preparation, you can make the most of everything the season has to offer while keeping your celebration stylish and stress-free.
If you’re currently engaged and planning your summer wedding, you’ll love our online wedding planner here at WedSites. From digital guest list management to online RSVPs and a wedding website builder, we have everything you need to plan your dream wedding. Create your account here to get started!
