Father’s Day
June 8, 2017
How to cook and eat outdoors this summer – without giving yourself food poisoning
June 20, 2017
It’s no secret that summer is the most popular time to tie the knot. After all, it’s easier for guests to take time off to travel, your risk of inclement weather is lower, and everything is flowering and bright. But since guests are likely seeing several couples say “I do” this season, how do you make your wedding stand out amongst the throngs of others? By throwing the ultimate summer wedding, of course.
It may sound like a lofty idea, but hosting an epic, seasonally minded warm-weather wedding is easier than you’d ever imagine. And it doesn’t require you to have a limitless budget.
Choose Gifts that Keep Guests Comfortable
Handing out sunglasses, parasols, or fans, before the ceremony starts, will keep your friends and family happy during what could be sweltering hot vows. Plus, they double as a favour your guests can take home after the wedding is over.
Offer Refreshing Cocktails and Wine
No one wants to sip a warm liquor or heavy red wine during the heat of summer. Chilled white or rosé wine or a bright signature cocktail will keep guests cool as they imbibe and will help you stock your bar in a smarter, more budget-friendly way.
Ensure You Have Some Shaded Décor
If you’re throwing a summer wedding, you’re probably hosting at least the reception outdoors so make sure to have shaded areas where guests can escape the heat. A tent for dinner or plenty of umbrella-covered seating serve as an escape from scorching sun.
Choose Flowers that Hold Up in the Heat
You’ll want to talk to your florist about heat-resistant blooms that won’t wilt in high temps. Trendy succulents are an ideal, statement-making option that can withstand even the steamiest of wedding days. Also, as a rule of thumb, hydrangeas will wither in heat, while tropical blooms like calla lilies, orchids, or fluffy flowers like garden roses or sunflowers can handle warmer weather.
Pick a Fresh Colour Palette
For summer weddings, skip darker tones in favour of lighter, airier shades. We love white weddings with pops of pretty pastels or bold colours, like bright yellows, coral, or blue. Figure out what works best in your space, but avoid heavy tones that make everything feel warmer than it already is.
Make a Smart Timeline
The last thing you want to do is ask guests to stand around in the sun for hours on end. While we suggest keeping the time between your ceremony and reception short at any time of year, it’s especially essential when temps spike. Minimise time without shade and try to plan your wedding to start at the cooler points of the day, like a sunset ceremony and evening reception.
Pick a Light, Refreshing Dinner Menu
There’s a time and place for a heavy, decadent five-course meal, and your summer wedding is not it. Stick to lighter, more refreshing fare, like simple grilled fish or chicken, a fresh salad, and seasonal vegetables.
Choose Airy Fabrics for Everyone
Whether it’s your wedding dress, your groom’s suit, or your bridal party’s ensembles, stick to lighter, flowing fabrics that will keep everyone cool. Sweaty brides, grooms, and attendants do not make for chic wedding photos.
Select a Summer Hairstyles for the Bride and Bridesmaids
It’s hard enough for most brides and bridesmaids to tame their hair into a perfect, flowing ‘do. Add in heat and humidity and long curls or waves will be disastrous. To fight frizz and humidity, ladies should try pulling part or all of their hair off their face and neck to stay cool and picture-perfect. One idea we love? Trendy braided hairstyles that are an upgrade from more classic looks.
Go with Thoughtful Dessert Stations
Want to really wow your guests? Have your caterer create a summer-friendly dessert station with chilly treats like ice cream or popsicles to help cool everyone down on the dance floor. Alcohol-spiked shaved ice is a delicious, adult-friendly option to elevate the idea even more!
To find out more about booking a professional, reputable caterer for any private or corporate events in London, talk to Zjcatering today.
Call us today on 0800 368 7446.
