How to Plan a Summer Wedding - Tips and Ideas for Summer Wedding Themes

When planning a summer wedding, it's all in the details. Warm sunshine, vibrant colors, and outdoor setting opportunities abound during the summer months. Take advantage of the season with these top tips for planning summer theme weddings.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Beat the Heat -
   
   Seriously consider renting fans or portable AC units for an outdoor wedding (even northern climates can hit 90 this time of year), and try to find a location with ample shade so guests can escape blazing sun and heat. Even if your wedding is inside, you´ll need to check the comfort level beforehand - some older venues lack good ventilation or aren´t air conditioned.

2. Brave the Elements -
   
   Outdoor settings are popular during the summer, but high temperatures aren´t the only discomfort you´ll have to contend with. Damaging UV rays, killer mosquitoes and pop-up showers are just some of the elements you may have to endure. Have bug spray, sunscreen and umbrellas on hand just in case.

3. Work around Summer Travel -
   
   Remember that summer is prime time for family vacations, holiday weekends, oh yeah - and other weddings. Try to book your date and notify your guests as early as possible.

4. Book Your Wedding Venue -
   
   - Get outdoors – summer weddings just call for a beach, garden, rooftop or backyard setting
   - Get on the water – marinas or even yacht cruises make for seasonably stylish venues

5. Plan Your Summer Wedding Decor -
   
   Go casual – summer weddings lend themselves to a casual décor scheme – fitting of a backyard barbeque. Think checked table clothes, benches and picnic tables.
   
   Go natural – incorporate natural décor elements like fruits, vegetables, even insects (like ladybugs or dragonflies, not necessarily roaches!)
   
   Get lit – light up an outdoor evening reception with lanterns or torches.

6. Build Your Summer Wedding Menu -
   
   - Serve lighter fare – think fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables like berries, watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, and corn, seafood and lean poultry like chicken. Between courses, serve a light sorbet.
   
   - Spark up the grill - serve traditional picnic and grill fare like barbeque, burgers and potato salad
   
   - Head to the tropics - feature tropical signature cocktails like margaritas, sangria, or mojitos.

Resources

• Summer Wedding
• Wedding Themes

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on 8/24/2009 Ministers.TheMonastery.org is a great resource for connecting with wedding experts.