Wedding season is upon us. June is the month that many brides aspire as the perfect time for their wedding. Unfortunately, summer weddings in the south can definitely have their fair share of mishaps. There are a few strategies that I’ve found over the years which have become keys to making a successful summer wedding for you and your guests. Enjoy!
- Drinks, drinks, drinks
As summer weddings can get extremely hot, especially if the ceremony is outdoors, it’s a good idea to welcome your guests with an icy beverage that will keep them hydrated and happy while you’re saying your vows. Of course, one of the first thoughts that pops into your head when you think of weddings is alcohol. But it may be a good idea to offer a virgin cocktail at the beginning to fully maximize your guests’ hydration. Creating a signature drink is both refreshing as well as memorable, and will definitely start wedding off on the right foot.
- I’m a fan of fans
Another must for a southern summertime wedding are fans. I say take them in any way you can get them. One easy way is to pass out individual fan keepsakes that your guests can carry with them throughout the night. A great add-on idea is to put the wedding program on the end of the fan, so it’s multi-functional. Another unique idea is to have little umbrellas or parasols when your guests arrive to take with them as an option. If you really like the idea of a parasol, you can use them in place of bouquets for your bridesmaids.
- So fresh and so clean
If any part of your ceremony or following will be held outside, there is a good chance that your guests (and you!) will get pretty hot and sweaty. Having chilled towels in ice is a perfect solution to pass out so that you and your guests don’t get overheated. You can also soak them in aromatherapy oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus and lavender; not only will they cool you off, they’ll smell divine too.
- Keep bugs at bay
Battling bugs can be one of the most frustrating things about summer weddings. Although they are impossible to completely get rid of, especially if you’re getting married outside; there are ways that you can provide relief. You can greet your guests with individual bug spray bottles they can use throughout the night, as well as provide natural relief remedies such as mini-bottles of peppermint oil. Having citronella candles and tiki torches scattered throughout the venue is a good idea as well.
- Flowers made to last
All the thought and hard work that goes into finding the perfect flowers can be dried up instantaneously in the hot summer heat. It’s a good idea to choose flowers that your florist recommends as sturdy and dense, and have the most likelihood of holding up in the heat. Arrangements with lilies, orchids, birds of paradise and other Hawaiian blooms are a hearty and also air a tropical aura. Having back-ups florals, especially for the groom’s boutonniere, is also a smart option.