August Weddings: To Go Ahead Or Postpone?

August is a popular month for weddings, with its warm weather, flowers in full bloom, and cheerful atmosphere. However, in recent years, couples have faced the difficult decision of whether to postpone their August weddings due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions that came with it. While some chose to postpone, others decided to go ahead with smaller, more intimate weddings or opt for alternative dates. Now, in 2024, with the pandemic situation improved in many parts of the world, those planning August weddings can look forward to their celebrations with more certainty, although challenges such as competition for venues and vendors remain. For those with cultural or superstitious beliefs, August 8th is considered the luckiest day to tie the knot, bringing infinite love and prosperity to the newlyweds according to Asian folklore and the Chinese zodiac.

Wedding colours and themes

August is a popular month for weddings, with its ideal weather conditions for outdoor ceremonies and al fresco dining, ample daylight for photos, and more room in guests' schedules to accommodate travel. The month also provides a picturesque backdrop for every phase of the celebration, with vibrant flowers and lush greenery growing naturally in many regions.

Yellow and Grey

Yellow is a colour often associated with late summer, and when paired with light grey and white, it can create a beautiful and elegant theme for an August wedding. This colour combination works especially well for outdoor events, with the shining sun and blooming flowers enhancing the beauty of the bright yellow hue. For a cohesive look, consider yellow bridesmaid dresses, a white bridal gown, yellow and white wedding bouquets, light grey groom and groomsmen suits with yellow ties and boutonnieres, and a white wedding cake with yellow decorations.

Blue and Orange

Blue and orange is an elegant and bright colour combination that works well for August weddings. This palette can be incorporated into various outfits and decor elements, such as ice blue bridesmaid dresses, a white bridal gown, blue and orange wedding bouquets, and navy blue groom suits with orange boutonnieres. For a unique touch, consider a white wedding welcome board with blue calligraphy and orange flower decorations.

Green and Yellow

For a timeless and eye-catching aesthetic, consider pairing emerald green with marigold yellow. This dark shade of green will complement the verdant greenery of the landscape, while the punchy yellow hue will create a bright and cheerful ambiance. To incorporate these colours into your wedding, think about using them in your invitations, floral arrangements, centrepieces, and tablescape. For a pop of colour, add ribbed glassware and linen napkins in emerald green.

Pastel Colours

Soft and romantic pastel colours, such as dusty blue, light grey, taupe, sage, and white, can create a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere for an August wedding. This colour palette is perfect for a rustic summer wedding, especially when paired with lush greenery and rustic accents. For a cohesive look, consider dusty blue bridesmaid dresses, a white bridal gown, light grey suits with dusty blue ties for the groom and groomsmen, and dusty blue and light grey wedding invitations.

Warm and Rich Colours

If you're looking for a cosy and intimate feel for your August wedding, consider warmer and richer colours such as brown, dusty rose, cream, cinnamon rose, navy blue, and blush. These colours can create a timeless and elegant aesthetic, with an unexpected rustic vibe. For a unique touch, incorporate these colours into your wedding cake decorations and invitations.

Sunset-Inspired Palette

August is known for its vibrant sunsets, so why not draw inspiration from the sky for your wedding colour palette? Consider hues such as orange, gold, sand, and even a touch of black for an edgier, contemporary feel. This combination is perfect for outdoor weddings, as it will showcase the bright and cheerful colours to their full potential. Use these colours in your invitations, floral arrangements, centrepieces, and table settings to create a cohesive and stunning aesthetic.

Catering options

August is a great month for weddings, with the warm summer weather and an abundance of seasonal produce to choose from. Here are some ideas for your August wedding catering:

• Take advantage of seasonal produce: Include locally grown pumpkins, colourful vegetables, and fruits in your menu. This will not only add a vibrant touch to your wedding but also help you save costs.
• Keep it light: Consider a simple brunch buffet with light and finger foods. Warmer weather calls for lighter meals, and this option can be more affordable than full-course plated meals.
• Focus on drinks and appetizers: Instead of rich main courses and expensive desserts, you may want to direct your budget towards a wider selection of drinks and appetizers.
• Cool down your guests: Offer summer-inspired frozen treats such as ice cream, sorbet, gelato, and snow cones. These will be refreshing for your guests, especially on a warm August day.
• Explore other options: Don't be afraid to explore other options. You can never go wrong with a menu that makes you and your guests happy.
• Consider the time of day: If you are having an evening wedding, you may want to consider a more substantial meal. However, if it is a daytime wedding, light snacks and drinks may be more appropriate.
• Don't forget the wedding cake: The cake is an important part of the wedding, so choose a flavour that complements your menu and the season.
• Book early: As August is a popular month for weddings, be sure to book your caterer well in advance to avoid disappointment.

With careful planning and consideration, you can create a wonderful catering experience for your August wedding that your guests will remember!

Wedding venues

August is one of the best months to get married in, with the warm summer weather, flowers in full bloom, and fewer holidays to work around. It is a prime wedding month, so there is more competition for wedding vendors and venues. However, there are alternative event spaces to consider, such as a backyard, patio, park, or beach setting.

If you are set on an August wedding, it is best to book your venue and vendors in advance. You might also consider planning your wedding on a weekday, as this can impact your choice of venue.

• Backyard or patio space: If you are planning a local wedding, the warm weather in August allows for a beautiful outdoor celebration in a backyard or patio space. This can be a more affordable option than renting a venue and gives you more flexibility with the logistics of your event.
• Park or beach setting: August is the perfect time to take advantage of the nice weather and plan a wedding in a park or on a beach. These venues are often only feasible during the summer months and can offer a unique and memorable setting for your special day.
• Indoor venues: If you prefer an indoor wedding, there are still plenty of options to choose from. Consider venues with nice ballrooms or indoor spaces that can accommodate your guest list. Look for venues with air conditioning to keep your guests comfortable during the warm summer months.
• Alternative spaces: If you are looking for something unique, consider venues such as a museum, art gallery, barn, or even a boat. These venues can offer a memorable experience for you and your guests.

When choosing a venue for your August wedding, it is important to consider the size of your guest list, your budget, and the overall style or theme of your wedding. It is also essential to book your venue as early as possible to ensure availability, especially if you are planning to get married during a popular month like August.

With proper planning and flexibility, you can find the perfect venue for your August wedding and create lasting memories with your family and friends.

Wedding dresses

August is a great time for a wedding, and there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a wedding dress.

Fabric and Style

Lightweight fabrics are a good choice for an August wedding, especially if the wedding is outdoors. Wrap dresses, short sleeves, and midi-length styles can help keep you cool. If you're looking for something more formal, opt for a mid-length to floor-length gown in a breathable fabric.

Colour

When it comes to colour, there are a few options to consider. Dark blue and grey tones can be stunning for a formal, indoor wedding, while a rustic outdoor wedding might call for colours like russet brown and sunflower yellow. If you're a guest at the wedding, it's important to remember that white dresses are usually not permitted unless specifically approved by the bride. Other colours to avoid as a guest are black, tan, and cream, which may be too warm for an outdoor wedding. Instead, opt for bright and bold colours like yellow, fuchsia, peach, turquoise, or red. You can also never go wrong with floral prints for an August wedding.

Wedding dates

August is a popular month for weddings, and there are many reasons why. Firstly, it's the summer, so you can take advantage of the warm weather and have an outdoor wedding. This also means there's an abundance of seasonal produce to choose from for your menu, and you can serve summer-inspired treats like ice cream and sorbet.

August is also a joyful and colourful month, with flowers in full bloom. It's a great time to pull out those colourful outfits and enjoy the balmy breezes and clear blue skies. There are also fewer holidays to work around, so you don't have to worry about your guests being away.

If you're looking for a date with special significance, August 1st is International Beer Day, and August 26th is National Dog Day. You could bring your dog to your wedding as your Dog of Honour and incorporate beer into your celebrations!

However, it's worth noting that August is a prime wedding month, so there may be more competition when it comes to venues and vendors. It's also important to consider the potential challenges of a summer wedding, such as the need for sunblock and the possibility of hot weather.

If you're thinking of sending out 'Save the Dates', it's generally recommended to do so around 8-12 months in advance. Any earlier, and you risk confusing your guests, especially if your wedding is in the following year.

Lastly, according to the Chinese zodiac, August 8th is considered the luckiest day to get married, not just in 2024 but every year. Asian folklore states that the number 8 represents infinity and, when applied to marriages, stands for never-ending love.

So, if you're planning an August wedding, go ahead and start planning! Just be mindful of the potential challenges and competition, and you'll be well on your way to a dream summer wedding.

Frequently asked questions