Fahrenheit, fans and flip-flops

This week we are looking at another top tip shared by one of last year’s lovely brides.

This very organised bride realised that getting married in the middle of July was probably going to be rather warm (and it definitely didn’t disappoint!) so she decided to leave out a few things to help her guests feel more comfortable. She organised a box of slippers (just the kind you get in hotels) and paper fans, they were really appreciated.

I’m writing this weeks blog in March. It’s currently pouring with rain and apparently snow is forecast tomorrow, the thought of a heatwave sounds absolutely amazing right now but if you do find yourself getting married on a scorching hot day, it can make such a difference just to have a few plans in place

Plan your dress-if you are getting married between June and August, then consider your dress and how you’ll cope. Some people do really well, they cope amazingly well but a lot of brides find a large dress with lots of layers really uncomfortable. If you don’t cope well with the heat you might want to consider a lighter dress or the option to change into something lighter later in the day. The other thing to remember is your footwear, a lot of brides find that their feet swell up when it’s hot, it might help to have another option in case this happens.

Don’t forget your bridesmaids and other members of the wedding party, especially the children, they might appreciate the option to change their shoes or to put in something lighter.

Drink plenty!-Definitely have some Prosecco (it is your wedding day!) but please, please, please drink some water too! The whirlwind of the day can make it easy to forget so plan in advance, ask for jugs of water on the tables (if the venue doesn’t always offer this) and think about a non-alcoholic option for your reception.

Take a seat-Most venues are very proud of their outdoor areas and they are one of the best parts of a summer wedding but don’t assume that it’s automatically going to be available. If you don’t have exclusive use if the venue it may not be available to you and your guests as it may form part of the restaurant or bar, if it’s not available they may offer other options or allow you to bring in your own, so double check.

Check with your venue-a surprising number of venues don’t have air-conditioning, it’s especially common in older properties, it doesn’t tend to be an issue in churches as they are usually quite cool but some older properties may only have air-conditioning in some areas so it’s a good idea to check.

Throw some shade-one of the biggest challenges at a summer wedding is finding somewhere with some shade for your group pictures. As beautiful as a hot summer day can be, it can be quite unflattering in photographs. I usually encourage my couples to wait until after 3pm or to choose a shady spot for their pictures. It can help to allow for this in your schedule, especially if you are having an early ceremony.

And finally, I really hope it’s a beautiful day but it’s worth considering a few back-up plans changeable weather, check out one of our previous posts, four seasons