Planning an outdoor summer wedding can be a dream come true with bright sunshine, beautiful flowers, and warm breezes. However, the summer heat can also pose a challenge for keeping your guests comfortable. At Marian House, we have a variety of creative and effective ideas on how to keep guests cool at your outdoor summer wedding and enjoy every moment of your special day.
Keep your guests hydrated and refreshed with different stations featuring a variety of cooling drinks and treats. Hire an ice cream or gelato cart to serve up delicious frozen treats during the reception. In addition to ice cream, consider serving other cool desserts like frozen fruit pops or slushies. These can be passed around during the cocktail hour or served as part of the dessert table. For more refreshing drinks, offer options like iced tea, lemonade, infused water, and chilled sodas.
Make sure that there are plenty of shaded areas for guests to escape the sun. This could be a designated “cool down zones” where guests can take a break from the heat. Use tents, umbrellas, or canopies to create cool, shaded spaces and add in large fans, cold drinks, and comfortable seating. These areas can be a lifesaver, especially for older guests or those with young children.
Provide your guests with cold, damp towels to help them cool down. Store the towels in a cooler with ice and hand them out during particularly hot moments, like after the ceremony or during the reception. Adding a hint of lavender or mint to the towels can add a soothing touch.
Place electric fans or misting fans around your venue to create a cool breeze. These can be particularly effective in keeping the dance floor and seating areas comfortable. Personal handheld fans can also be a fun and practical wedding favor for guests.
Set up a station with sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats for guests to use. This not only helps protect them from the sun but can be fun personalized wedding favors for a memorable keepsake.
Encourage your wedding party and guests to wear light fabrics. For brides, consider a wedding dress made of lightweight materials like chiffon or silk. Grooms and groomsmen can opt for linen suits or dress shirts. Providing your guests with a dress code that suits the summer weather can ensure everyone stays comfortable.
An outdoor summer wedding at Marian House can be a beautiful and memorable event, especially with thoughtful planning to keep everyone cool and comfortable. By incorporating these ideas on how to keep guests cool at your outdoor summer wedding, you can ensure that everyone enjoys your celebration to the fullest, despite the heat. If you’re looking for the perfect venue and expert planning assistance, contact us today to learn how we can help you create an unforgettable summer wedding!