The warmer days of Spring are here, which can only mean one thing: Summer is on the horizon. Summer wedding vibes are always top tier, but we know one major thing couples worry about when planning their summer nuptials is how to keep their guests cool. Especially here in our little North Carolina beach towns, we see temperatures regularly climb into the 90s during the dog days of summer. So what can you do to make sure your guests are comfortable? We’ve compiled a list of ideas that might help!
1. The Venue
If you know you want a summer wedding, it’s important to really get a feel for what your venue has to offer. Many venues have indoor/outdoor options that will allow you to break up the time spent in the heat. If the venue is outdoor only, take the time to tour and make sure there are shady areas or structures that will give your guests some reprieve from the sun. Your venue coordinator can also give suggestions based on what they have seen done by previous brides and grooms.
2. Time of Day
This one is especially important to consider in the summer months — both for the temperatures and the sunset time. Golden hour is the sweet spot of day for lighting and will inadvertently help with the heat because it falls just before sunset when the temps start dropping. If you want an effortless way to make sure your guests stay cool, working with Mother Nature is the way to go.
3. Personal Fans
We love the idea of personal fans because they can be a multi-purpose wedding purchase. The fan, while cooling down your wedding guests, can also double as your wedding programs. Two birds, one stone. Handheld fans are generally lightweight and easy to carry, and guests are far less likely to dispose of them as quickly as they would regular wedding programs. This cuts down on waste and your budget, which is a win-win.
4. Hydration Station
Nobody wants a guest to suffer from any heat-related illnesses, so having hydration stations around your venue will be key in keeping your guests feeling good. Making sure these stations are easily accessible and having someone available to restock them as necessary will keep your night flowing smoothly. Trust us, your guests will thank you.
5. Frozen Treats/Cool Eats
Who says popsicles are just for kids? There are countless fun ways to turn a frozen treat station into something that fits your vibe, and what guest is going to turn down an ice cold popsicle on a hot summer day? You could also consider serving cool foods during the cocktail hour rather than passing around hot hor d’oeuvres. The cocktail hour can feel like the longest stretch of the wedding to your guests. The anticipation of the reception and dancing can make the waiting hard. Add heat into the mix, and some guests might start feeling a little grumpy. Having cool foods, drinks, and treats available will make the wait a little easier and keep all the spirits up.
Summer is peak wedding season for a reason. It brings long days, beautiful views, and happier people. The heat is inevitable, but there are many ways to work around it. Consider incorporating some of these ideas into your day to create a cool, enjoyable, and comfortable experience for everyone. Bring on the sunny summer days – we are ready to celebrate!
