Getting Married in Summer – Our Tips

Close your eyes and picture your wedding day. Still far off? No matter—it’s just a thought exercise. Which season comes to mind first? Among wedding professionals, the period from March through October is widely regarded as the “hot” season. In particular, weddings skyrocket between June and September. Perhaps it’s the longer days, the vacation mindset, or the pleasant temperatures that let guests enjoy an evening outdoors without unwelcome surprises. Whatever the reason, more couples tie the knot in summer than at any other time.

Whether you choose a mountaintop ceremony surrounded by enchanting forest air or a seaside vow exchange with the gentle roar of waves in the background, summer weddings unlock countless options. It’s the only season that makes many stunning venues viable. You can say “I do” on the porch of a grand villa, exchange vows late in the evening within the walls of an ancient castle and dance beneath fireworks all night, or enjoy a late-morning service amid a breathtaking landscape. For the truly adventurous, why not wed in a hot-air balloon, aboard a sailing ship or even strapped into a parachute? Summer alone makes such dreams possible.

Attention to detail matters year-round, but in the summer heat, flower preservation becomes a particularly delicate task. Opt for heat-tolerant blooms like hydrangeas—dramatic and long-lasting—and dahlias, ideal for a fairytale gown. Zinnias, cornflowers and gardenias also hold up well. For a mermaid-cut dress, consider a cascading orchid bouquet. A single sunflower makes a striking statement with an empire-style gown, while aromatic sprigs of lavender and helichrysum add shabby-chic charm. Keep your flowers in a cool spot—some brides even stash them in the fridge or the bathtub—ideally somewhere air-conditioned. Ask your florist to include a few extra buds, just in case.

Summer weddings come with high temperatures and the sticky discomfort of humidity. To minimize guests’ misery, schedule your ceremony in the late afternoon, when the heat begins to soften. For the reception, a buffet encourages everyone to stay light on their feet with simple, fresh dishes rather than heavy, elaborate fare.

Stock up on water, soft drinks, iced tea, scented wet wipes and hand fans. Set up small kiosks in strategic locations, offering smoothies, ice cream and granitas. They’ll add a fun, lively touch to the post-ceremony celebration. Since mosquitoes and other pests can spoil the mood, be sure to place citronella coils, candles or torches around your outdoor areas. A discreet courtesy insect-repellent spray can also go a long way.

Above all, choose practical attire. Skip overly voluminous gowns—they’re just cumbersome in the heat. Lightweight fabrics such as chiffon can be every bit as elegant in sleek, flowing silhouettes, allowing you to move freely while still looking refined. For the groom, summer etiquette calls for lighter shades, accented with subtle details that maintain a polished, classy appearance.