Summer Wedding Dos & Don’ts

The dream is all too vivid: a carefree wedding set under glorious blue skies and rays of sunshine, dancing the night away without fear of rain or the bite of a cold chill.

Of course, the reality is a little different.

Those rays of sunshine can burn just as much as the cold can bite, and unforgiving UV and insects can be more a nuisance than a few drops of rains.

Luckily, there’s no need to forsake the vision just yet. Instead, invest a little time in careful planning and all your summer wedding dreams will come true.

Dos:

Do send out ‘Save the Dates’ ahead of the formal invitation. Summer is a busy period, with many planning vacations in advance, or requiring extra notice to book time off work. Giving your guests a substantial heads-up will be greatly appreciated.

Do ensure there are refreshments on hand throughout the day, from the ceremony to dinner and dancing. A chic alternative to baskets of bottled water is a fresh lemonade stand decorated with your flowers of choice.

Do get creative with what you serve: refreshing cold canapes, frozen cocktails, an ice cream trolley, even! The list is endless.

Don’ts:

Don’t schedule your ceremony for the middle of the day: no one will feel comfortable under the glare of the midday sun. Opt for a sunset ceremony followed by drinks, dinner and dancing under the stars. And if you are enjoying a destination wedding where the heat is even more potent, arrange for elegant white tents to be set up to shade the wedding party and guests.

Don’t overlook what a nuisance insects can be (mosquitos, we’re looking at you!). The most stylish solution? Ask your florist to tastefully incorporate insect-repelling flowers and greenery into your wedding set-up, from fragrant herbs such as lavender, mint and rosemary to brightly-coloured florals, such as petunias and marigolds.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Literally. It’s inevitable that your body will respond to the summer heat, but fret not: talk with your hairdresser and make-up artist beforehand and ask that they take precautions to ensure your hair and make-up look fresh throughout the night, from extra-strong, humidity-combatting hairspray to gentle face powder to dispel any sheen. Keep these two key products nearby throughout the wedding to top-up as and when you need!