Ah, summer. There’s a reason that this season is most popular for weddings – the long days full of sunlight, warmer temperatures, and dependable weather, people are more available to travel and just plain happier. If you’re thinking about having a summer wedding, here’s a guide to be sure that it’s the right season for you.
Overall Feel
If you’re looking for a fun and laid back event, summer is perfect for your wedding. The days are warm and relaxed and parties can last late into the cool of the night. Consider choosing a venue with both an indoor/outdoor space to take full advantage of the season. Including lawn games is a fun way for guests to entertain themselves during the cocktail hour or reception.
Event Styling and Design
Summer naturally lends itself to bright, vibrant color palettes. Take inspiration from the bold colors of nature this time of year and include fun flower arrangements. Flowers in season include peonies, anemones, sweet peas, roses, hydrangeas, sunflowers, daisies, cosmos, orchids and more. Be sure to consider how your flowers will fare in the heat – orchids, roses, and daisies are all great choices for warmer weather, or opt for offbeat greenery like air plants or succulents that thrive in the heat!
Consider keeping the styling light and airy with sheer drapery, loose floral arrangements, and casual lounging areas for guests to take a break from dancing! Plan for shaded areas during the day and consider fun surprises like popsicles or an ice cream cart!
Summery Stationery
Carry over your bright color palette onto your wedding stationery with lively floral designs or dreamy watercolor elements. Your wedding invitations are a great way to set the stage for a fun summer wedding your guests won’t want to miss! Save the dates are extra important when having a summer wedding, especially if your date is near a holiday. Summer vacations are booked early so give your guests plenty of time to plan for the day off.
If you’re thinking of a summer wedding, check out these invitation suites that can be customized to your exact summer color palette.
Weather
Of course, the biggest consideration is the weather. In many places, summer is the best time for an outdoor wedding, while in other places you may be better off with an indoor air-conditioned wedding. Though the weather is usually more dependable during summer, you should always consider and have a plan for the unexpected (our Oregon June wedding went the opposite of our expectations – it was in the hundreds when we were prepping for rain or balmy weather).
Think of the Guest Experience
Consider your guests when planning – will you need fans? (ceremony programs can double perfectly as fans) or even bug spray? Think about providing cooled fruit-infused water or a signature cocktail while guests are waiting before or after the ceremony. Opt for fresh, lighter fare when choosing what food to serve as heavy foods and hot weather don’t go well together.
The Downsides to Summer Weddings
There are some costs to having a summer wedding. Often many vendors book summer dates early or have higher prices since they are in high-demand May through August and even sometimes into September. Be sure to reserve your date early if you have a specific vendor in mind. If you choose to have an outdoor wedding, you may want to begin the ceremony later in the day to avoid the glaring sun and high heat of the afternoon.
There you have it – your summer wedding guide! There are many great reasons to have a summer wedding (hello warm weather!) but also be sure to consider and plan for the few obstacles that come with summer like wilting flowers and overheating guests. Get inspired by the wide range of summery colors and have fun with it! If you’re thinking of a summer wedding, check out these invitation suites that can be customized to your exact summer color palette.
Not sure about a summer wedding? Check out our fall wedding guide to help you decide.
