Summer Wedding Essentials
Well, it looks like summer has arrived with a bang doesn’t it? Blue skies, sunshine and long days make me a very happy girl and they’re also the stuff of summer brides’ dreams. However, to make sure that you and your guests don’t get hot and bothered on your big day, here’s our little guide to those summer wedding essentials that no wedding should be without…
If the temperature is soaring, keep your wedding day look cool. Guys, roll up those sleeves, loosen your collar and kick back a little. You can still look smart (and you’ll certainly look attractive!) with a touch of informality. No one is going to look at their best under layers and layers of heavy suit! Brides, get yourself a pretty parasol as they’ll keep you cool and stop you burning in the sun. A little bit of shade is also more flattering for photos and you won’t be squinting at the camera. Little parasols also work well for mini maids and flowergirls and, if you’re really clever, how about using insect repelling herbs in their flower crowns? Also, give guests permission to relax – encourage them to kick off those heels and get on the dancefloor. I’m sure they won’t need to be asked twice!
Everyone needs to drink more on hot days and I don’t mean more alcohol! You can make sure that the soft options look just as appealing with pretty glass coolers that allow guests to help themselves or freeze fruit or flowers inside ice cubes and put out plenty of water. Another idea I love is to serve drinks in mason jars with lids – this stops any bugs and flying creatures from sharing your favourite tipple with you!
Whilst we’re on the subject of bugs, it’s a great idea to put out some insect repellant for guests to use if you’re planning on being outside. You could also include sun protection, blister plasters and other essentials in kits for guests in cloakrooms. Another idea is to put out fans and even flip-flops and hats for everyone because comfortable guests are happy guests and happy guests will think you’re the best bride ever!
When the sun goes down, there’s no need to go inside. Set up some outside seating areas and fill them with lanterns and fairy lights to encourage everyone to sit under the stars for as long as possible. If you love the idea of staying up to see the sun rise with your nearest and dearest then how about putting out some blankets for guests to use when the temperature finally starts to dip?
Summer always means strawberries and cream and luscious fruits really are a sign of the season. How about using locally grown fruit as favours for your guests? You can pick up produce cheaply at local markets or ‘pick-your-own’ farms to make juicy favours, tasty toppings for cakes and wickedly healthy nibbles for guests. Paper bags full of cherries would make a lovely ‘going home’ gift for guests on a warm evening.
Finally, nothing says summer quite like a picnic so why not serve baskets and boxes full of delicious food to guests, either as an alternative wedding breakfast or at a post-wedding brunch the next day? Don’t forget cutlery and napkins and mini condiments! Also, who can resist the childish pleasures of ice pops? Buckets full of these funny sunny treats are guaranteed to make everyone smile.
What are your seasonal wedding essentials? Let me know and most of all, enjoy the sunshine!
Love,
Sophie x
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