So you’re gearing up for your summer wedding, and of course, you want it to be the event of the year. Summer is a popular time to hold a wedding as it is less likely to rain (unless you live in Melbourne). However, you can experience wildly hot weather that can put a damper on your day. Here are 5 essential considerations to remember if you’re planning a summer wedding:
- Timing
It’s best to avoid a lunchtime wedding in summer for a number of reasons. Firstly, you don’t want everyone sweltering in the heat, and secondly, the harsh sunlight will make for less-than-perfect photos. Overcast and sunset lighting actually makes for better wedding photos. Also, if you have an outdoor wedding, you don’t want the sun blinding you as you say your vows.
- Dress code
You want your guests to be as comfortable as possible so they’re relaxed and can have a wonderful time, so it’s important to consider your wedding venue when deciding on a dress code. A formal dress code would leave guests sweltering in an outdoor reception while a cocktail dress code might leave guests freezing in an air-conditioned venue.
- The food
Yes, it’s hot, but that doesn’t mean your guests won’t be hungry. Summer calls for lighter meals like salads, but be sure to include some more substantial dishes to keep everyone happy. They don’t need to be hot; think seafood, pasta salads, chicken pieces, etc. Dessert can include a fruit platter or sorbet and ice-cream.
- The drinks
Your guests are going to get thirsty on a hot day, and if you’ve only provided alcoholic drinks, they might not make it to the end of the evening. Offer your guests a range of non-alcoholic drinks to quench their thirst so the fun can go on all night. Excellent options include virgin cocktail options and set up one or two stations where guests can enjoy fruit-infused iced water.
Ask your venue manager to ensure that the ice buckets on the tables are kept full, so your guests can cool down any warm drinks.
- The creature comforts
If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, make sure you provide enough seating and shade. Hand out summer parasols to keep guests protected from the sun or paper fans as wedding favours to keep guests cool.
You’ll also want to supply insect spray to keep the bugs at bay. Insect repellent is essential if you’re having a wedding near water or the bush. When the sun sets, the bugs come out to feed, and you don’t want your guests to be their meal!
Summer is such a perfect time for a wedding – everyone’s relaxed, the weather’s usually beautiful, and the flowers in full bloom. There’s no need to plan everything yourself. Turn to the experienced team at Merrimu; we’ll help you conceptualise and realise your dream wedding.Contact us today.