Summer Weddings: What To Expect This Year

Summer is a great time to get married. With warm weather, blooming flowers and plenty of seasonal wedding theme inspiration, it's no surprise that it's one of the most popular times of the year for weddings. But is it the right choice for you?

There are many advantages to a summer wedding. Typically, the weather is gorgeous, and there are fewer holidays to work around. Guests are often more willing and excited to take time off work and travel to a summer wedding, and your outdoor venue and location choices are wide open.

However, there are also some disadvantages. Summer is the most popular season to tie the knot, so venues and vendors often increase their prices during this time, especially on weekends. Your favourite venues and vendors could be booked up months to years in advance, and destination wedding and honeymoon prices also hit their peak.

So, can we have weddings this summer? Absolutely! But it's important to be aware of the pros and cons and plan accordingly. Start planning early, be flexible with your date, and invest in food and decor that can withstand the elements. With careful consideration and preparation, your summer wedding is sure to be a success!

Food and drink ideas

Summer is a great time to get married. With warm weather, blooming flowers, and an abundance of seasonal produce, there are endless possibilities for your wedding menu. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Appetizers and First Course Ideas

• Caprese skewers with balsamic drizzle: A classic combination of mozzarella cheese, fresh tomatoes, and basil is a perfect way to embrace the flavours of summer.
• Mini taco hors d'oeuvres: Tacos are a fun and colourful option that will capture your guests' eyes and stomachs.
• Ceviche in martini glasses: A refreshing dish to cool off your guests, served in elegant martini glasses.
• Grilled veggie skewers: A simple yet flavourful option, perfect for snacking during cocktail hour or reception.
• Deviled eggs with caviar: A cooling and savory snack, presented individually or on top of a piece of bread.
• Fresh tropical fruit skewers: A great option for outdoor weddings, helping guests cool off and enjoy the flavours of summer.
• Sushi station: A fun and interactive idea, easy for guests to help themselves and incorporate some Japanese cuisine.
• Charcuterie board: Perfect for a cocktail reception, offering a variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables for guests to graze on.

Main Course Ideas

• Italian-inspired pasta station: A fun and interactive way to serve a variety of pasta dishes, such as cheese tortellini or fettuccine.
• Seafood station: Crab legs, oysters, and shrimp are elegant and light options, perfect for a cocktail hour or buffet display.
• Wood-fired pizza: Add some summer vegetables or tomatoes to make it a seasonal treat, served on a cooled pizza peel for authenticity.
• Grilled summer vegetables: Offer a variety of grilled veggies like zucchini, green beans, eggplant, and cucumbers as a healthy and colourful option.
• Tropical shrimp salad: A light and refreshing dish, combining shrimp, cucumber, and mango, decorated with edible flowers.
• Prosciutto-wrapped melon: A sweet and salty combination of crisp cantaloupe and salty prosciutto, perfect as a passed appetizer.
• Roasted chicken: A hearty yet nourishing option, paired with cornbread and sautéed greens as side dishes.

Dessert Ideas

• Mini ice cream cones: A fun and whimsical way to serve ice cream, offering a variety of flavours like chocolate, vanilla, or fruity options.
• Summer berry pie: A classic summer dessert, combining delicious berry flavours and a sweet, flaky crust.
• Wedding macarons: Elegant and bite-sized, macarons can be offered in a variety of colours and flavours to match your wedding theme.
• Strawberry cheesecake bars: A refreshing and fruity twist on a classic dessert, perfect for those who want an alternative to traditional wedding cake.
• Crepes: A unique and light dessert option, easily customizable with summer fruits and whipped cream.
• Rosé popsicles: A playful and creative way to enjoy a summer sipper, perfect for cocktail hour or as a post-dinner treat.

Signature Drink Ideas

• Prosecco with popsicles: Add a popsicle to each glass of Prosecco for a fun and photo-worthy summer drink.
• Coconut water station: Keep your guests hydrated and offer a tropical beverage option with a pretty presentation.
• Boozy popsicle cocktails: Add a creative twist to your cocktail offerings by including boozy popsicles, but be sure to inform guests about the alcohol content.
• Rosé: This pink wine is a summer favourite and can be served on its own or as a refreshing signature cocktail.
• Raspberry mango margaritas: A creative and interesting twist on a classic margarita, perfect for a summer celebration.
• Summer moscow mule: Customise this classic cocktail with seasonal flavours and make it unique to your wedding theme or location.

Wedding attire

When it comes to wedding attire, comfort is key, especially if you're tying the knot in the summer. If you're getting married in the Deep South in late July, for instance, you'll want to avoid being buried under layers of fabric and accessories. Instead, opt for shorter dresses or lighter fabrics like chiffon, silk, linen, cotton, organza or charmeuse.

For grooms, it's important to be mindful of the heat and choose lighter suit jackets and vests, or even ditch the jacket altogether. Go for khaki, rolled sleeves, suspenders, or shorts and flip-flops.

If you're a guest at a summer wedding, you'll want to dress for the weather and the venue. For a formal summer wedding, you can't go wrong with a well-tailored tuxedo or a glamorous long gown in a lightweight fabric like chiffon or crepe. If you're attending a beach or seaside wedding, opt for breathable fabrics and unfussy accessories like flat sandals, block heels, or boat shoes.

For a cocktail or semi-formal summer wedding, dress code depends on the time of day. For an evening soiree, go for darker, more formal hues, while for daytime nuptials, opt for light colours and fabrics.

And don't forget to accessorise! Parasols, sunglasses, and fans can help keep you cool and protect you from the sun, while also adding a touch of style to your outfit.

Pros and cons of summer weddings

Pros of Summer Weddings:

Summer is a great time to get married. Here are some of the advantages of a summer wedding:

• Typically gorgeous weather.
• There are fewer holidays to work around.
• "Yes" RSVPs are more likely to roll in as guests are often more willing and excited to take time off work and travel.
• Your outdoor venue and location choices are wide open. Think barns, mountaintops and beaches.
• The days are longer, so you have more time for photographs and a more flexible schedule.
• There is a wider variety of flowers and food available, and at lower prices.
• You can get creative with summer-themed food and drinks, like popsicles in prosecco, or a coconut water station.
• You can embrace a summer wardrobe and choose lighter, flowing fabrics to keep everyone cool.

Cons of Summer Weddings:

There are some disadvantages to a summer wedding:

• It is the most popular season to get married, so venues and vendors often increase their prices.
• Your favourite venues and vendors could be booked up months, or even years, in advance.
• It is the peak season for destination weddings and honeymoons, so prices are at a premium.
• The heat and humidity can be a challenge for guests, and the bride's hair and makeup.
• You will need to be mindful of bugs and provide bug spray.
• Some guests may already be on summer vacations, so attendance could be impacted.
• You will need to give yourself plenty of time to plan and book vendors.
• The harsh lighting can be a challenge for photographs.
• You will need to be mindful of the heat and provide shade, fans, parasols, and plenty of ice water.

Weather considerations

Summer is a great time to have a wedding, with warm weather, blooming flowers, and an abundance of seasonal wedding theme inspiration. However, there are some weather considerations to keep in mind when planning a summer wedding.

Firstly, summer is the most popular season for weddings, which means more competition for venues and vendors. It is important to start planning early, ideally at least a year in advance, to secure your desired venue and vendors. The summer season usually starts in early summer and lasts through mid-fall, with June, July, and August being the most popular months for weddings. If you're looking for a less crowded and more affordable option, consider having your wedding in late spring or early fall.

One of the biggest weather considerations for a summer wedding is the temperature. Depending on your location, temperatures can soar to 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. This can be uncomfortable for guests, especially if the wedding is outdoors. It is important to choose a venue with shaded areas, electric fans, and air conditioning to ensure your guests' comfort. Consider providing sunscreen, sunglasses, parasols, and bug spray for outdoor ceremonies.

In addition to the heat, there are also weather concerns such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, and wildfires that can occur during the summer months. It is crucial to have a backup plan in case of bad weather, such as an indoor space or a reception tent. The weather can also affect certain elements of your wedding, such as flowers and food. Some flowers, like hydrangeas, are known to wilt in hotter temperatures, so consider pairing them with heat-resistant plants. For food, collaborate with your caterer to plan a summery menu that can withstand the warm weather.

Another consideration is the potential for natural disasters during the summer. On the west coast, drought conditions can lead to wildfires, while the east coast experiences hurricane season. These events can bring hazy skies, poor air quality, and even evacuations. It is important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for any potential disruptions.

Lastly, consider the impact of the summer weather on your guests' comfort and experience. The high temperatures can quickly take a toll, so ensure there are plenty of cool drinks and methods to cool down, such as handheld fans and ice water. Additionally, the summer travel season can impact your guests' attendance, so it is thoughtful to provide welcome bags with products like bottled water, travel-sized sunscreen, and snacks.

Wedding favours

• Hand fans are a thoughtful gift for guests at a summer wedding, helping them stay cool during the ceremony and providing a memorable keepsake.
• Sunglasses are another practical gift that will be appreciated by guests, especially for outdoor celebrations or destination weddings.
• Miniature bottles of rosé or other summery drinks are a fun way to get the party started and can be personalised with custom labels.
• Miniature potted succulents or cacti are an eco-friendly and long-lasting favour that can be decorated with custom stickers.
• For a beach wedding, consider flip-flops or sandals to keep guests comfortable and dancing all night long.
• Hangover kits filled with essentials like pain relievers, eye masks, and snacks are both useful and entertaining.
• For a playful touch, offer guests colourful or personalised sunglasses, disposable cameras, or sparklers for a dazzling send-off.
• Sweet treats such as macarons, cake pops, or customised chocolates are always a hit and can be packaged in creative ways.
• For a destination wedding, consider luggage tags, eco-friendly water bottles, or tiny tote bags filled with treats.
• Seed packets or small potted plants encourage guests to grow their own flowers or herbs, offering a lasting reminder of your wedding.
• For a unique twist on traditional favours, try customised rock candy, chopsticks, or golf balls.
• Personalised items such as keychains, compact mirrors, or wooden place names offer a special touch and can double as place cards.
• For a summery twist, offer mini bottles of sunscreen, lip balm, or after-sun lotion to protect your guests from the sun's rays.

Frequently asked questions