Who hasn’t dreamed of a perfect summer wedding? Living in California makes it even easier. Being one of the most coveted seasons to wed in by many, we wanted to put together a list for those of you asking “what are some tips for an outdoor summer wedding?”

1. Provide An Inside Escape

So what are the best venues for outdoor summer weddings? Although we’re known for having beautiful weather year-round, it doesn’t hurt to find the best wedding venues in Orange county California with both indoor and outdoor spaces. This way guests can escape the beating sun and cool off indoors before heading back outside. At Piovra Group, we have over 23 different venues we partner with, so it’s fairly easy to find a mesmerizing outdoor garden wedding venue or an enchanting rooftop overlooking the ocean. Our Palm Sophia rooftop wedding venue combines the best of both worlds with a unique indoor and outdoor feel.

2. Goodies to Make Guests Comfortable

When it comes to what are some of the do’s and don’ts for an outdoor summer wedding, we highly recommend you DO provide little goodies to make your guests stay more comfortable. Little bottles of sunscreen and portable fans that guests can grab and carry around will prevent your attendees from burning to a crisp, and also provide a cooling solution to the summer heat. Providing sunglasses as well that guests can use and keep, adds a fun bonus for guests and can be a good photo opportunity too.

3. Outdoor Cooling Systems

While having an indoor option for guests to escape is a huge plus, you’ll also want to consider outdoor cooling systems as well so guests are more comfortable outside when they have to be. Whether you went with a large outdoor wedding venue or a more intimate wedding venue, providing misting stations and portable air conditioning units will help mitigate some of the summer heat. Guests can socialize and enjoy, but always have the option to stick closer to the cooling systems when they need to.

4. Consider Details Carefully

When it comes to some of the finer details of the wedding, you will want to make sure the heat is top of mind. Are your chairs covered with cloth as opposed to metal so your guests don’t burn themselves? Are your bridesmaids’ dresses made with breathable fabric so they aren’t sweating profusely as they stand at the altar with you? Will you be wearing your hair up so you stay cool during the ceremony? Will your flower arrangements wilt if they are out in the sun too long? These are things you’ll want to consider, keeping the summer heat top of mind as you plan.

5. Light Food and Cold Drinks

This one seems like a no-brainer but the last thing people want to do when they are hot is eat heavy food and drink room temperature drinks. Make sure your meal and hors d’oeuvres are light and cooling so guests enjoy themselves as they eat. The drinks should also be ice-cold and you may want to consider serving frozen cocktails to keep guests cool and comfortable. Their cold drink can even serve as a temporary mini air conditioner.

We hope these tips help as you begin planning your summer wedding. At Piovra Group, we are always happy to help you find the perfect wedding venue or jump in at any phase of the planning process to make sure your perfect day goes off without a hitch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Do you think if it’s too hot, the entire wedding should just be indoors?
A. Depending on the temperature, that may be the best option. If it is so hot where you and your guests are uncomfortable throughout the entire ceremony, that can put a huge damper on your big day. 

Q. Do you think if we have air conditioning units, we need misters too?
A. We recommend misters because they are a good way for guests to stay cooler for longer. Air conditioning usually only travels so far, so having misters in between the units can be a great idea.

Q. What are some good examples of cooling foods to serve?
A. Fresh fruits and vegetables like watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers and leafy greens. Food that is served cool in general such as small finger sandwiches or fresh salads. Things like peppermint tea can also be a good cooling drink to offer too.