Tips for Planning a Summer Wedding

You've probably heard the term wedding season before, but when exactly does it take place? This refers to the peak seasons and months for couples to get married. Typically, it's between spring and fall, with June and September being the most expensive and popular months of the year, and summertime is a top choice for many ceremonies. Here are some tips if you're planning a summer wedding:

Consider the Weather
Unfortunately, mother nature has a mind of her own, and no matter how hard we try, we can't control the weather. But you can try to plan around it. Take the geographical location of your wedding into consideration. Are you a Southern belle? It's likely you won't want to get married in mid-August when the air is warm and sticky and the humidity is out of control. The last thing you want is you guests to be overheated throughout the entire celebration. Sometimes it's worth shelling out the extra bucks for the May or June slot at a venue so the weather is one last thing you have to worry about.

Also, do you plan to have an indoor or outdoor wedding? This can make all the difference. As you know, rainfall picks up a bit during April and May, so finding a venue with indoor and outdoor options may be beneficial. That way, whatever the forecast is, it won't make a difference on your big day.

Don't Forget Save-the-Dates
Summer is prime vacation time with kids being out of school and everyone in that "fun in the sun" mindset. Your wedding invitations are a must, but save-the-dates are also extremely important. Opt for a magnet so your guests can pop it on the fridge. That way, your guests will have all the reminders they need for your special day.

Keep It Cool
When it comes to the food and drinks, minding the weather is a must. We can guarantee your guests won't want to be sipping on hot coffee on a warm, summer day. Your guests will be yearning for an ice-cold drink, according to Bride Guide. Plan the meal and refreshments accordingly. Here's an example of a perfectly appropriate wedding food list for a June wedding:

• Appetizers: cucumbers sandwiches, fruit kabobs, caprese skewers.
• First course: strawberry spinach salad, yellow squash soup, Sicilian orange salad.
• Meal: lemon chicken, mango habanero chicken, parmesan tilapia. 
• Dessert: gelato, lemon custard, wedding cake (of course!).
• Refreshments: pink lemonade, frozen margaritas, mimosas.

Don't Forget About Yourself
You've been keeping your guests in mind this whole time, but don't forget about the most important guest: yourself! You want to be happy and comfortable on your big day. Opt for a breezy wedding dress so you don't feel hot or sticky. You may even want to consider a second dress for the reception so you can move more freely. The same goes for the grooms. Don't feel constrained to traditional values. Groomsmen can look handsome and elegant in linen suits or khakis and button-downs. It's your wedding, after all. You call the shots.