4 Wedding Guide
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Summer
romance
Plan to wed in the heat of the
summer? Follow these tips to
ensure a cool event for all
Beachside locations and lightweight clothing can tame the heat of summer weddings.
ay, June and July consis-
tently rank among the
most popular months to
get married. These months typi-
cally provide pleasant weather,
and if it does rain, it’s often in the
form of a brief thunderstorm.
But summer weather can be
extremely hot, and while a sunny,
warm day may be perfect beach
days, such conditions are not
always ideal for weddings, espe-
cially weddings that take place
outdoors. If wedding-day weather
threatens to be very hot, explore
these methods to staying cool.
Choose a later start time
A late-afternoon wedding may
be the way to go in the summer-
time. The temperature usually
drops a bit in the early evening,
M
even though the sun won’t set for
a couple of hours. That lingering
summertime sun allows the bride
and groom to enjoy an outdoor
ceremony and still take beautiful
outdoor photos.
Rely on shade and
proximity to water
Shade can be your friend when
the sun is blazing. If your outdoor
wedding is in the early afternoon,
keep temperatures under wrap by
seating guests beneath umbrellas
or inside a tent.
Have beverage tables
Keep canisters of cold bever-
ages at the ready so guests can
easily quench their thirst. Fresh
lemonade, iced tea and water with
a few sprigs of mint can help
guests ward off dehydration.
Tie the knot near the water
Breezes off of the water also
help combat the heat, so a lake-
side or beach wedding can make
hot temperatures more manage-
able.
Choose practical hairstyles
and makeup
Brides may prefer up-dos to
keep hair off of their necks and
allow for breezes to cool their
bodies. Rely on makeup primers
and powdered foundations so that
makeup does not melt in the heat.
Waterproof cosmetics are advis-
able so that perspiration won’t
cause makeup to run.
Wear breathable fabrics
Opt for lightweight fabrics
instead of heavy gowns and full
tuxedos for the bride, groom
and wedding party. Cotton and
linen allow air to flow through
clothing, helping people to stay
cool.
Light colors also will help
deflect the sun. Bridal gowns
made of chiffon, silk or satin may
feel luxurious and help tame the
heat.
Tailor the reception menu
to the weather
A large, heavy meal may not be
what guests are hoping for when
temperatures are especially hot. In
such situations, provide some
cool, light fare, such as chilled
salads or cold soups, as first
courses. Sorbet can be a cool
palate cleanser, and grilled meats
and vegetables will make for a
satisfying, light main course.