Summer is the season of love, and what better way to celebrate your eternal commitment than with a summer wedding? With the warm sun, clear skies, and vibrant nature as your backdrop, you have the perfect canvas to paint your dream wedding. However, planning a wedding requires some special considerations to ensure it’s a day filled with sunshine and joy. In this blog, we’ll provide you with valuable tips to plan the perfect summer wedding, from setting your budget to choosing the ideal dress and keeping your guests cool.
Key Tips for Planning Ahead
First and foremost, if you’re dreaming of a summer wedding, you need to start planning well in advance. Summer is the most sought-after time for many couples to tie the knot, which means wedding venues, florists, caterers, and other services book up quickly. To secure your preferred date and vendors, it’s advisable to kick off your planning at least a year before your big day. Early preparations allow you to pay attention to every detail and provide ample time to address any issues that may arise.
How to Establish Your Budget
Setting a budget is a crucial foundation for your wedding planning. Due to the high demand for wedding services during the summer months, prices can sometimes be higher than during other seasons. It’s essential to allocate your funds wisely to ensure a stress-free wedding experience. A general breakdown of your budget could include:
- Venue and catering: 40% of the total budget
- Photography: 15% of the total budget
- Music: 10% of the total budget
- Florals: 10% of the total budget
- Décor: 10% of the total budget
- Wedding dress: 5% of the total budget
- Transportation: 3% of the total budget
- Stationery: 3% of the total budget
- Cake: 2% of the total budget
By establishing a clear budget early on, you can avoid last-minute financial surprises and ensure your summer wedding is truly your dream come true.
Choosing the Perfect Theme and Color Palette
Summer weddings offer a wealth of opportunities for creative expression creative expression through themes and color palettes. Whether you envision a beach wedding with a nautical style, a rustic country-themed celebration in your backyard, or something entirely unique, the theme and color palette should amplify the spirit of the season. Bright pastels and earthy tones work wonderfully in the summer’s natural light, creating a vivid and picturesque atmosphere.
Choosing the Perfect Wedding Gown
Your wedding gown is the centerpiece of your wedding. When selecting your dress, prioritize comfort, especially considering the warm weather. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen, chiffon, silk, cotton, or Merino wool to ensure you stay cool and comfortable. Opt for dresses with short sleeves and light, flowy skirts for maximum comfort. If you anticipate needing a change after the ceremony, consider a second wedding dress that’s more convenient for the later festivities.
Get Your Florals Right
After deciding on your theme and color palette, it’s time to focus on your floral arrangements. Choose blossoms that exude freshness and elegance, with vibrant hues like yellow, blue, and coral. Keep in mind that not all flowers thrive in the summer sun. Avoid delicate blooms that may wilt quickly, like lilacs and hydrangeas. Instead, opt for tropical blooms such as Birds of Paradise, orchids, Calla lilies, and Anthurium to ensure your floral arrangements withstand the heat.
Keep the Wedding Dress Code Light and Bright
Your wedding dress code can contribute to the overall comfort of your guests. Summer is not the time for fabrics that trap heat, such as velvet dresses or wool suits. Encourage bridesmaids, groomsmen, and guests to choose outfits made of breathable materials like cotton or linen. This will help everyone stay cool, comfortable, and in tune with the spirit of summer.
Make Sure Your Guests Stay Comfy and Cool
Summer weddings can be scorching, so it’s essential to ensure your guests remain comfortable throughout the celebration. Provide shaded seating areas, like umbrellas, where guests can relax and cool down during outdoor events. If your wedding planner places hand fans on each seat, it’s not only a thoughtful gesture but also a practical one. Guests can use these fans to stay cool and take them home as a cherished memory of your special day.
Talk to Your Caterer
When hosting a summer wedding, your menu plays a vital role in your guests’ comfort. Fresh, crisp, and light foods will keep your guests energized and refreshed in the heat. Heavy, rich foods can lead to discomfort for some attendees, so consult with your caterer to create a menu that prioritizes fresh fruits, grilled vegetables, and savory salads. While you don’t have to exclude meat entirely, consider avoiding heavy steaks and roasts that might be less appealing in the summer heat.
Choose a Summer-Friendly Hairstyle
Your hair and makeup are essential components of your overall look. Consult with your hair and makeup artist to create a style that complements both the weather and your outfit. Test your makeup to ensure it can withstand the heat, and opt for an elegant updo to keep your hair off your neck and shoulders. If you prefer to wear your hair down, use anti-frizz products and have a quick touch-up plan in place for any frizz that may appear during the day.
