Let’s plan for the heat! Hosting a summer wedding comes with longer evenings, blooming plant life, and an effortless, sun-soaked energy. But a dreamy summer celebration can bring high temperatures, humidity, and a full day in the sun.
Your wedding guests may need a little extra guidance on what to expect, especially when it comes to dressing for the weather and navigating outdoor elements. To help your loved ones feel prepared and comfortable, we’ve compiled a list of thoughtful hot-weather wedding planning tips to share on your website, invitations, and to keep in mind throughout your planning process.
We’re talking hydration stations, shaded lounge areas, thoughtful food and beverage choices – anything that will keep your summer experience enjoyable all the way to golden hour, no matter how high the temperatures climb.
Thoughtfully Include Your Dress Code
Be sure to share wedding dress code details early, whether on a wedding invitation insert or your wedding website, so guests know exactly what to expect. If any portion of your day will be outdoors, consider recommending breathable fabrics, lighter colors, and appropriate footwear for grass, sand, or uneven terrain. This is especially helpful for out-of-town guests who may not be familiar with the climate.
Be Mindful of the Timeline
If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, consider scheduling it later in the day when temperatures begin to cool. This will help keep guests comfortable and out of the midday sun. This also allows you to plan a ceremony just before or around sunset for an added touch of romance.
Offer Refreshing Welcome Drinks
Greet guests with a cold beverage upon arrival. Think: infused water, lemonade, iced tea, or even a refreshing signature cocktail. Check out our helpful guide to serving alcohol responsibly, with tips from professional bartenders.
Create Hydration Stations
In the heat of summer, hydration is key. Consider setting up self-serve water stations throughout the venue. You can add fresh fruit or herbs for a more luxe touch.
Serve Pre or Post Ceremony Bites
Keeping everyone fed, especially if they’ve already started toasting to your love, will allow guests to maintain their energy despite the heat. Ideas might include watermelon skewers, chilled fruit, a raw seafood bar, or light passed bites.
Provide Shade & Lounge Areas
If your ceremony or cocktail hour is outdoors, consider designing details for your day with shade. This could include tents, umbrellas, sailcloth canopies, or even tables placed beneath trees. Create inviting lounge spaces where guests can relax and take a break from the sun, allowing them to regulate their comfort throughout the day.
Help Guests Stay Cool
Place handheld fans in accessible locations outdoors, on their ceremony chairs, or in welcome baskets for guests to grab as needed. And for a chic touch, wedding ceremony parasols are a trend we can’t get enough of!
Choose Heat-Friendly Menu Options
Work with your caterer to design a menu that feels light, refreshing, or seasonally-inspired. Embrace seasonal produce, crisp salads, highlight grilled cuisine, and even consider chilled sides or desserts.
Plan for Hair & Makeup Touch-Ups
Heat and humidity might affect your wedding look. Consider talking to your hair and makeup team about touch-ups. Some brides may even opt for an updo for their reception. Keep a few essentials handy or stocked in the restrooms, like hair ties, facial mists, tissues, deodorants, or blotting papers. It’s a small detail, but guests will appreciate the opportunity for a refresh.
Be Strategic With Your Tent
If you’re using a tent for part of your day, talk with your rental company about ventilation options like fans, open sides, or even air conditioning. While they look beautiful and are tempting, clear-top tents may trap heat like a greenhouse., Alternatively, white or sailcloth tents reflect sunlight and stay cooler.
Offer Cool Late-Night Treats
Surprise your guests with a fun, cooling treat, like an ice cream cart, popsicles, or a shaved ice station. It’s perfectly on-theme for summer and would still pair perfectly alongside your cookie table.
Embrace Imaginative Summer Details
Get creative with your take-home gifts, like custom sunglasses or warm-weather essentials your guests will actually use. Lean into the season with color, decor, or a theme that reflects your love story – and your guests will no doubt love the dance floor accessories, goody bags, and memories they create. If you really want to end the night on a high note, may we suggest the fated afterparty pool dip to cap it all off?
