Summer Wedding Guest: What To Wear In July?

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to attend a wedding in July. While July is a popular month for weddings, with many couples taking advantage of the warm weather and longer days, it can also be a busy time for people with holidays and other events. Additionally, there may be increased costs for venues and vendors during this peak wedding season. Those considering a July wedding should also be mindful of potential disadvantages, such as guest availability, higher travel costs, and outdoor inconveniences like mosquitoes. Ultimately, the decision to attend a July wedding depends on personal preferences and logistics, weighing the pros and cons to make the choice that best suits one's circumstances.

Pros and cons of a July wedding

Pros of a July Wedding

• July is in the peak of wedding season, so you'll have your pick of venues and vendors, and they will be busy for good reason.
• It's easy for guests to travel to your wedding, as many people take vacations in July.
• There is an abundance of flowers to choose from for your bouquet and decor.
• You can hold your reception or ceremony outside.
• Fireworks are an option for a unique send-off!
• It's a built-in fun theme with the Fourth of July.

Cons of a July Wedding

• It's a busy time for weddings, so you may have to compete with other couples for venues and vendors.
• Depending on where you live, the heat may make a July wedding uncomfortable for guests.
• Guests may be less excited to spend hours outside in the middle of a July day, especially in warmer and more humid climates.
• It's an expensive time of year, and your guests may be financially drained from summer vacations.
• You'll have to share your anniversary with a major holiday.

July wedding costs

The cost of a wedding in July will depend on a variety of factors, including the number of guests, the number of vendors hired, the style of the wedding, and the location.

According to The Knot's 2023 Real Weddings Study, July and August are tied for the fourth most popular months to get married, with 7% of weddings taking place in each of these months. As such, you can expect to pay a premium for venues and vendors during this peak season.

The average cost of a wedding in the United States in 2023 was $35,000, a $5,000 increase from 2022. This increase is largely due to inflation, which has driven up the cost of goods and services across the wedding industry. The cost of a wedding can also vary significantly by location, with big cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago being the most expensive places to tie the knot.

When creating your wedding budget, it's important to allocate the majority of your funds to the venue and catering, which typically make up the largest portions of the budget. Other significant expenses to consider include the rehearsal dinner, wedding planner, lighting and decor, guest entertainment, ceremony musicians, hair and makeup, wedding favors, and additional jewelry.

To save money on your July wedding, consider choosing an outdoor venue or a city park, which can be more affordable than indoor reception halls. You can also save by opting for digital invitations instead of paper ones, and by renting your wedding attire instead of purchasing it.

Additionally, hiring a wedding planner can help you maximize your budget, as they can find the best deals on cakes, catering, and other services. They can also help you avoid hidden costs and unexpected expenses.

Remember to start planning early, set a realistic budget, and be flexible with your choices to stay within your financial parameters.

July wedding weather

July is a popular month for weddings, with many couples taking advantage of the warm weather and long days. However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider when planning a July wedding.

Weather

In the Northern Hemisphere, July is one of the warmest months of the year, making it ideal for outdoor weddings. However, it can also be uncomfortably hot for guests, particularly those wearing formal attire. It is also a busy month for travel, with many people taking advantage of the summer holidays. This can make it difficult for guests to attend and may result in higher costs for airfare and accommodation.

In some regions, July is also hurricane season, which can cause disruptions to travel and outdoor events. It is important to consider the local weather conditions when planning a July wedding and to have a backup plan in case of extreme weather.

Availability

July is a popular month for weddings, which can make it difficult to secure venues and vendors. It is important to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. The increased demand may also result in higher prices for venues and vendors during this month.

Holiday

In the United States, the Fourth of July is a federal holiday that commemorates the country's independence. It is often celebrated with fireworks, parades, and other festivities. While this can add a festive atmosphere to a wedding, it can also cause disruptions and increase costs. Guests may already have plans or struggle with travel due to holiday traffic.

Superstition

There is also an old superstition that July is an unlucky month for weddings, with several anonymous rhymes warning of bittersweet memories and labouring for daily bread. However, this superstition is not widely held, and many couples choose to tie the knot in July regardless.

Overall, July can be a great month for a wedding, but it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and plan accordingly. By booking in advance, being mindful of guest needs, and having a backup plan for the weather, couples can ensure their July wedding is a success.

July wedding dates to avoid

There are several dates in July that you may want to avoid for a wedding. The first is the 4th of July, which is Independence Day in the US. This date is widely celebrated across the country and many families book vacations that coincide with this holiday, so a wedding on this date may conflict with guests' schedules.

Another date to avoid is the 19th of July, which is Juneteenth. This holiday commemorates the end of slavery and is celebrated annually.

If you are considering a destination wedding, you may want to avoid the following dates in July:

• Canada Day, which is celebrated on the 1st of July.
• Bastille Day in France, which is celebrated on the 14th of July.

Additionally, it is worth noting that some people consider July to be an unlucky month for weddings due to various superstitions and old rhymes. However, this is not a hard-and-fast rule, and ultimately, the choice of wedding date is a personal preference.

July wedding guest considerations

If you're attending a wedding in July, there are a few things to keep in mind. July is a popular month for weddings, with many couples taking advantage of the warm weather and longer days. However, it's important to be mindful of the potential challenges that come with a summer wedding.

Pros of a July Wedding

• July falls within "wedding season", which means you'll have plenty of options when it comes to venues and vendors.
• The warm weather opens up a world of venue options, from beaches to vineyards to national parks.
• There is an abundance of flowers in bloom, giving you a wide range of choices for your bouquet and decor.
• July weddings often align with guests' vacation schedules, making it easier for people to attend.

Cons of a July Wedding

• July is a busy month for travel and community events, which can lead to increased costs for guests and limited availability for venues and vendors.
• The warm weather can be uncomfortable for guests, especially those in formal attire or heels.
• Outdoor locations may be prone to mosquitoes and bees.
• July 4th weddings may be challenging due to competing holiday plans and increased traffic.

Tips for Guests

• If the wedding is outdoors, opt for comfortable and lightweight fabrics.
• Consider the potential for increased costs due to the busy season and try to book your travel and accommodation in advance.
• Be mindful of the couple's chosen date and try to avoid last-minute changes to your RSVP, as July is a popular month for travel and other events.
• If the wedding falls on a holiday, such as July 4th, be respectful of the couple's theme and colours, and join in on the festivities if you're comfortable doing so.

Attending a July wedding can be a wonderful experience, offering the opportunity to celebrate love during the warm and vibrant summer season. By being mindful of the potential pros and cons, you can ensure that you're well-prepared and ready to enjoy the special day.

Frequently asked questions