Summer weddings are truly enchanting, filled with long days of sunshine, blooming flowers, and a relaxed, joyful atmosphere. However, the rising temperatures can also present some challenges, especially when it comes to keeping everyone cool and comfortable. At AM21, our event solutions can help provide the essentials to keep everyone cool at a summer wedding. Whether you're the bride, groom, part of the bridal party, or a guest, staying cool in the summer heat is key to enjoying the day to its fullest. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to beat the heat at a summer wedding.
Stay Hydrated
Flavoured Water Stations: Hydration is crucial during a summer wedding, not just for the bridal party but for all the guests. One of the best ways to ensure everyone stays hydrated is by setting up flavoured water stations throughout the venue. These stations can feature large vats of chilled water infused with fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Consider offering combinations like cucumber-mint, lemon-lavender, or strawberry-basil. These not only quench thirst but also add a delightful, refreshing twist to standard water. Plus, the colourful infusions double as a visually appealing decor element that enhances the overall aesthetic of your wedding.
Choose Breathable Fabrics and Light Colours for the Wedding Party
Fabric Selection: The choice of fabric for wedding attire can significantly affect comfort levels during a summer wedding. It's essential to opt for light, breathable materials that allow air to circulate freely, keeping everyone cool throughout the day. Fabrics such as linen, cotton, or chiffon are ideal for summer weddings. These materials are lightweight and provide better airflow, making them perfect for both the bridal party and guests. When it comes to the bridal gown, bridesmaids' dresses, or even the groom's attire, selecting these fabrics can make a world of difference in how comfortable everyone feels.
Light Colours: Colour choice is another critical factor in staying cool. Dark colours absorb more heat, which can make them less suitable for summer weddings. Instead, opt for lighter shades like pastels, whites, and soft neutrals. These colours reflect the sun’s rays, helping everyone stay cooler and looking fresh throughout the day. Light-coloured attire also photographs beautifully in natural light, adding a bright and airy feel to your wedding photos.
Mind the Suit Thickness: For the groom and groomsmen, the thickness of their suits can greatly impact their comfort in the summer heat. If you’re considering a three-piece suit, be mindful of the fabric’s thickness. Heavy materials can quickly become uncomfortable, leading to sweating and discomfort. Instead, consider lighter, breathable fabrics like linen or a lightweight wool blend. These options maintain a polished look without the added warmth, allowing the men to stay cool while still looking sharp.
Opt for Suspenders and Lose the Jacket: For a more relaxed yet classy look, consider modifying the traditional three-piece suit by losing the jacket and waistcoat altogether. Instead, pair a crisp, lightweight shirt with breeches. This approach not only keeps the look sophisticated but also ensures comfort, making it an excellent option for a summer wedding.
Accessorise for Comfort
Protective Accessories: Incorporating stylish yet functional accessories can make a significant difference in your comfort level during a summer wedding. Consider adding wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to your wedding attire. These accessories not only elevate your look but also provide much-needed protection from the sun's harsh rays. A wide-brimmed hat is particularly effective at shading your face and shoulders, keeping you cool while adding a touch of elegance to your ensemble.
Cool and Chic: Remember, accessories like hats and sunglasses aren’t just practical—they’re fashionable too. Choosing the right pieces can complement your outfit and enhance your overall look, allowing you to stay cool without sacrificing style.
Plan a Shaded Ceremony
Keep Guests Comfortable: When planning a summer wedding, consider hosting your ceremony in a shaded area to keep guests comfortable during the heat of the day. Whether it’s under a large tree, beneath a stylish canopy, or within a pavilion, providing shade can make a significant difference in ensuring everyone stays cool.
Enhance the Ambiance: A shaded location not only offers relief from the sun but also creates a more intimate and serene atmosphere. Natural elements like trees or gazebos can add to the beauty of the ceremony setting, enhancing the overall aesthetic while keeping the temperature down.
Flexible Seating Arrangements: If a fully shaded area isn’t available, consider arranging seating with umbrellas or parasols for added shade. This flexibility ensures that guests can still enjoy the ceremony comfortably, without the distraction of harsh sunlight.
By thoughtfully planning a shaded ceremony, you can create a beautiful, comfortable environment that allows everyone to focus on the special moments, rather than the summer heat.
Carry a Sun Umbrella
Portable Shade: A sun umbrella or parasol is both a chic and practical accessory for a summer wedding. It provides portable shade, which is particularly helpful during long outdoor ceremonies. Not only does it protect you from the sun, but it also adds a touch of vintage elegance to your outfit. Whether you’re the bride, part of the bridal party, or a guest, a parasol can be a stylish way to stay cool.
Provide Cool-Down Essentials for Guests
Handheld Fans: Offering guests handheld fans is a thoughtful way to help them stay cool during the ceremony and reception. These can be provided as wedding favours or placed on each seat at the ceremony. Not only are they practical, but they can also double as a wedding programme, with the schedule of events or important details printed on them. This not only serves a functional purpose but also adds a unique, personalised touch to your special day, making them a memorable keepsake for your guests.
Misting Stations: Set up misting stations around the venue, particularly in outdoor areas where guests might need a quick cool-down. A light mist of cool water can instantly refresh guests, making them feel more comfortable and ready to enjoy the festivities.
Cooling Towels: Another great option is to provide cooling towels for your guests. These towels can be pre-chilled or activated with water and distributed at strategic locations such as near the dance floor or seating areas. They’re a fantastic way to help guests cool down after dancing or during an outdoor ceremony.
Shaded Rest Areas: Create shaded rest areas with umbrellas, canopies, or tents where guests can take a break from the sun. These spaces not only provide relief from the heat but can also be designed to enhance the aesthetic of your wedding. Consider adding comfortable seating and some of the cool-down essentials mentioned above, ensuring your guests remain comfortable and refreshed throughout the event.
Provide Shade for the Wedding Breakfast Area
Comfortable Dining Experience: Ensuring that your guests are comfortable during the wedding breakfast is essential, especially in the summer heat. Plan your dining area with shade in mind, whether it’s under a marquee, large umbrellas, or a canopy. Providing ample shade will help keep the area cooler, allowing everyone to enjoy their meal without discomfort.
Maintain the Ambiance: Shading the wedding breakfast area doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Marquees and canopies can be beautifully decorated to complement your wedding theme, creating an inviting and elegant space. Consider using light, airy fabrics for draping, which can also help with airflow, keeping the space cool and refreshing.
Strategic Seating Arrangements: If your venue includes natural shade from trees or buildings, consider arranging the tables to make the most of these shaded spots. This not only keeps guests out of the direct sun but also adds a scenic element to the dining experience. You can also enhance the comfort of the space by providing fans or cooling stations
Pick Shaded Photo Locations
Strategic Photo Spots: When planning your wedding photos, choosing the right locations is key to keeping everyone cool and capturing beautiful images. Opt for areas that offer plenty of shade, such as under large trees, beside buildings that cast wide shadows, or near architectural features like pergolas. Shaded spots not only keep the bridal party and guests comfortable but also provide softer, more flattering lighting for photos.
Natural Backdrops: Look for spots with natural backdrops that provide both beauty and shade. These locations will enhance the overall aesthetic of your photos while ensuring that everyone remains comfortable during the shoot.
Comfort First: Prioritise the comfort of your bridal party and guests during photo sessions by choosing shaded areas where they can avoid direct sunlight. This small consideration can make a significant difference in keeping everyone relaxed and happy, allowing you to capture joyful, candid moments.
Beat the Shine
Makeup Tips: Keeping your makeup looking flawless can be a challenge in the summer heat. Combat unwanted shine by using blotting papers or a mattifying powder throughout the day. These products help absorb excess oil and keep your face looking fresh. Additionally, consider using a setting spray to lock in your makeup, ensuring it stays put despite the warm weather.
Mind Your Footwear
Comfortable Shoes: When it comes to footwear, consider swapping heavy, closed-toe shoes for breathable sandals or wedges. These options allow for better airflow, reducing the chances of your feet overheating. Plus, they offer more comfort after hours of dancing and mingling, letting you enjoy the day without worrying about sore feet.
Timing is Everything
Arrive on Time: If possible, try to arrive at the venue closer to the start time rather than too early. This strategy helps you avoid waiting around in the heat for too long, ensuring you remain comfortable and ready to enjoy the festivities.
Stay Positive & Enjoy!
Focus on the Joy: Above all, remember that your wedding day is about celebrating love and creating lasting memories. While the summer heat can be intense, it’s important to focus on the positive aspects of the day. With these tips in mind, you can stay cool, comfortable, and fully present to enjoy every moment.
With a little preparation and thoughtful planning, you and your guests will be ready to embrace the summer wedding season in style and comfort. Stay cool, keep the good vibes flowing, and most importantly, enjoy the celebration!
At AM21, we understand that every detail matters when it comes to creating the perfect summer wedding. From providing essential shade during your ceremony and wedding breakfast to offering cool-down essentials like handheld fans and misting stations, we’re here to ensure your special day is as comfortable as it is beautiful. Our team of experts will work closely with you to incorporate all these thoughtful touches. Let us at AM21 take the stress out of planning, so you can focus on enjoying every moment of your wedding day, knowing that we’ve taken care of everything to keep you and your guests comfortable in the summer heat.
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