The Ultimate Guide to Summer Weddings
Summer is a popular season for weddings, offering long days, beautiful weather, and vibrant natural settings. After producing an intimate wedding at The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel during a heat wave last month, we wanted to share some tips for hosts to make the most of a summer celebration:
Timing is Everything: Schedule your ceremony during the cooler parts of the day, such as early evening, and plan your individual and family photos indoors or shaded areas. Don’t forget June and September can bring hot days just like July and August. Keep your hair and makeup artists past the ceremony for touch ups in case it is hot and humid.
Venue Selection: Opt for venues with plenty of shade, such as gardens with large trees, beach pavilions, or tented areas. We love The Beekman because one of their terraces is covered and air conditioned, and there are indoor suites for reprieve from the heat. If you’re planning a tented wedding, budget for fans and/or air conditioning - it is well worth the added expense.
Weather Backup Plans: Always have a contingency plan for unpredictable weather. An event planner can help you understand logistical considerations on timing - when you need to make the weather call and why. At the wedding last month, we had to pivot from dancing outdoors to indoors as a storm approached. The DJ needed extra time to move his equipment so we had to act quickly and added an impromptu cake cutting to stall the guests in the dinner space.
Dress Code Guidance: Inform your guests about the expected dress code, taking into account the weather. If your event is all outdoors, consider cocktail attire over black tie to give your guests more comfortable and versatile options. Consider a wardrobe change for yourselves for dancing too - not just for comfort, but for style and to signal a shift to party mode.
Refreshments: Provide ample hydration options. Set up water stations with infused waters, lemonade, or iced teas. Offer passed cool, refreshing cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks to keep everyone hydrated and happy. Make sure you stay hydrated as well!
Sun & Bug Protection: Offer sun protection items such as parasols, sunglasses, and fans. Consider providing these as part of your wedding favors. Don’t forget bug spray for events on the grass or in a garden. Pro tip: place dryer sheets under outdoor tables with linens, which keeps the bugs away.
Menu Choices: Select light and refreshing menu items. Avoid heavy or overly rich dishes that can feel uncomfortable in the heat. We love a raw bar on ice for cocktail hour, a seasonal salad and simply prepared fish, followed by a chilled dessert.
Decor: Use summer blooms and greenery to enhance the natural beauty of your venue. Choose sturdy flowers that can withstand the heat, and have your florist set out the flowers as close to the event time as possible to prevent them from wilting.
A summer wedding can be a magical and memorable event with the right preparation and considerations. As a host, focusing on your guests' comfort will ensure they enjoy your special day as much as you do. As a guest, planning ahead and being mindful of the summer elements will help you have a great time celebrating the happy couple. Embrace the beauty of the season and create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
