The number one tip for planning a summer wedding? Don’t be afraid to break the rules. Forget what you’ve heard about summer wedding dos and don’ts, and go your own way. Here, we debunk eight summer wedding myths for good.
Myth 1: You have to have an outdoor wedding.
If you live in a cooler part of the country where the lush, green months of summer are precious, it may seem like you absolutely must head outside for your summer wedding. But if an outdoor wedding isn’t what you’ve always dreamed of, an indoor space can be just as summery (and much more reliable). For one, if you’re in a super-hot climate, an indoor wedding will be way more comfortable for your guests who are dreading the heat. Beyond that, you can use your creativity and design skills to make an indoor space suit the season. Hang summer lanterns or create a summer flower-strewn indoor aisle, and choose a venue with large windows that let in lots of sunlight (or show off the moonlit night).
Myth 2: You need a bright, summery palette.
While many summer couples look to vibrant colors to reflect the season, it’s most definitely not a requirement. If bold and bright just isn’t your style, there’s no need to force an intensely cheery palette into your look. Opting for a subdued color scheme is unexpected and lovely. For example, icy blue and gray lend a cool, refreshing tone to the atmosphere, and hints of black add an air of sophistication. For a surefire palette that works with almost any style—whether it’s black tie, relaxed or natural—consider a combo of white and ivory with green accents. An apple-green hue will give a preppy, fun feel, while a deeper green like loden or moss will give your nuptials a subdued elegance. Peruse more gorgeous color pairings here for inspiration, for both bold and muted aesthetics.
Myth 3: You can’t have a formal wedding.
Yes, high temperatures probably mean you should skip the stiff, heavy dresses made of taffeta and brocade, but you don’t have to put your bridesmaids in dresses with high hemlines and have your groomsmen don loafers if it’s not your style. Decide on a level of formality, and then work with your bridal salon and tux shop to explore your options. For a sophisticated, formal summer wedding, consider elegant silk sheaths for your bridesmaids and lightweight dark suits for the guys. You should be able to find attire that reflects the formality of your event, but won’t leave you sweltering.
Myth 4: A city wedding won’t work.
Summer is the season when many urbanites head for the hills or the beach. But if you’ve always envisioned a chic city wedding, you can definitely still have it in the summer months. A rooftop ceremony or reception will give you an outdoorsy touch without sacrificing that quintessential urban feel. Loft spaces are also great for summer weddings. Awash in windows, you can avoid high temperatures while still taking advantage of bold sunsets and glittering skyline views.
Myth 5: The heat will ruin everything.
Of course, summers get hot—but don’t let the naysayers get you down. If you know there’s a decent chance it’ll be especially toasty on your wedding day, make plans to avert any weather-related disasters. Avoid wilting blooms in the bouquets and boutonnieres by asking your florist to steer you toward hardier blooms, like orchids and lilies. Consider water-submerged centerpieces featuring Mokara orchids. Because the flowers are completely underwater, they’ll keep cool all night long. And as for your wedding cake, get fondant instead of buttercream to avoid a melting mess. If you’re set on the rich taste of buttercream, display the cake during your cocktail hour and then have the cake cutting at the beginning of your reception.
Myth 6: You need flowers and greenery everywhere.
While the world around you might be rife with lush flora, there’s no need to re-create an overgrown garden at your wedding if that’s not your style. Stick to clean, minimal details, nonfloral centerpieces or any décor that suits your individual wedding vision. Plus, if you’re planning to party and/or say “I do” outside, you’re likely already working with some fabulous natural scenery that needs no added embellishments.
Myth 7: You have to wed by the water.
A wedding near the shore is lovely, but it’s not always possible and certainly not mandatory. Your summer wedding will be no less special or summery if you don’t snag a site by the beach. While seaside paraphernalia (think: sea stars, coral, driftwood and shells) can be perfect for one couple’s party, it’s not the only summer aesthetic.
Myth 8: You can’t wear sleeves.
Statement sleeves—and sleeves of all styles, really—are not only on trend, but flattering and gorgeous. Who says you have to wear a sleeveless or strapless wedding dress for your summer nuptials? If you’re prone to overheating, stick to something with less material (aka sleeveless or strapless might be ideal for you), but if sleeves are your jam, opt for sheer illusion details, one- or off-the-shoulder sleeves, bell sleeves or airy poet sleeves.
