The warmer weather and longer summer days offer so many options for weddings, it’s no wonder it’s our busiest time of year. The flowers that are season are gorgeous and can incorporated into every aspect of your big day.
Take a read of this Ultimate Guide to gain some inspiration from some of our favourite ideas.
Themes and Colour Schemes
A fresh and neutral colour scheme is timeless and will look beautiful from the day into the night. If you’re looking for something more unique and bright, tropical tones add a vibrant touch to your styling. Fresh fruit can be added into your tablescapes, we love the idea of cutting citrus fruits in half and scattering them among other decorations. There are so many flowers in season, gerberas, daisies, cornflowers, zinnias, and sunflowers all look beautiful, just to name a few!
A boho festival vibe works well if you’re looking for a more relaxed reception. Hire a selection of live bands to take this theme to the next level. Warmer weather calls for a Mexican fiesta, think piñatas, maracas, and delicious themed food.
The Unpredictable Weather
The British weather may not hold out for your big day so it’s important to prepare. Make sure you’re equipped for all eventualities. Providing guests with pretty parasols and umbrellas to protect them from the sunshine or rain is important, especially if your plans involve being outside for long periods of time.
If you’re planning to have an outdoor ceremony, make sure your venue has some inside space that the set up at a moment’s notice. No one wants to sit in the pouring rain, and you certainly don’t want to ruin the hair and makeup you’ve spent hours getting done. Depending on the size of your guestlist it might be a good idea to consider setting up a sound system for outdoor ceremonies. For guests at the back, it may be hard for them to hear the vows in the open air.
Ensure there is some protection from the elements. Enough shade and shelter are essential. Even if it’s raining, guests may want to step out for some fresh air and will need somewhere to stand. It’s likely to get cooler in evenings, if your venue has a firepit ask them to light it once the temperature drops off. Offer guests blankets to drape over their shoulders or cover their bare legs.
Set up a hydration station, sunny or not it’s important for your guests (and you!) to drink enough water throughout the day. Add chopped cucumber, mint, lemon, and strawberries to the table so your guests can infuse their drink.
Favours
Fans, sun cream, hats and sunglasses are all practical favours if you’re planning on your guests spending a substantial amount of time outside. These essentials will help protect them from the sun and keep everyone feeling tip top to enjoy the event.
Clothing
Light and flowy clothing is the key to keeping cool for the whole bridal party. Avoid long sleeves, opt for short, sleeveless, or strapless styles. Experiment with shorter dress lengths for the bride and bridesmaids if you’re getting married in a warmer location or month.
The Groom and Groomsmen could get too hot in a traditional three-piece suit. Linen suits may be a more comfortable option without compromising on style.
Hair and Makeup
Up dos are a go to for summer weddings, they keep all your hair off your face and neck away from any sweat. Get your stylist to add matching flowers into your look to bring everything together. Sporting a relaxed bohemian braid with seasonal flowers weaved throughout is a pretty option, paring beautifully with summer wedding dresses.
The key to long lasting makeup is priming and setting it correctly. Before applying your makeup, prime your skin with an oil-free primer and have a quality setting spray on hand to finish with. Use a waterproof mascara, that way your eye makeup is protected from sweat and joyful tears throughout the day. Carry blotting paper around to touch up and remove any sweat or oil that has managed to seep through.
Summer is a great time to wear a bold lip, if you’re going with bright colours, why not try out an orange? Check the shade suits you by wearing it before your big day and taking lots of pictures, you don’t want to regret it for years to come.
Light Food and Drink
There are so many deliciously refreshing options for welcome drinks. Pimm’s with cucumber, mint and strawberries is the ultimate British summer drink. If you’re looking for something more modern, Aperol Spritz or frozen cocktails are exciting options.
Keep the food and flavours light and fresh. Forget savoury canapés, pieces of watermelon on sticks and mini ice lollies will offer refreshments to your guests as your reception begins. A vintage ice cream van is a lovely option for dessert and adds the huge bonus of unique photo opportunities.
Quintessentially British and classy, why not treat your guests to an afternoon tea? A lovely alternative to a heavy meal which works great if your ceremony ends in the middle of the afternoon. Summer is the ideal time for a BBQ or hog roast. Offer mixed salads, potato wedges, and homemade bread as side dishes. A casual arrangement like this allows people to socialise and move around without being stuck at a table in stuffy weather.
Keep the cake simple cake, naked cakes work brilliantly and won’t leave the icing dripping. Berries and buttercream is an option we see again and again through the summer season. If you do opt for this, keep it in the coolest location.
Summer Activities
Traditional outdoor games like hoopla, giant Jenga or oversized noughts and crosses will keep everyone entertained for hours. Set up a mocktail station with various fruit juices and garnish, even the children can join in with an elaborate drink.
Summer is our busiest part of the peak wedding season here at Over Barn. If you’re thinking of getting married here it’s best to secure a date as soon as possible. Drop us a message if you’d like to take a look around our lovely venue.
