Planning & Inspiration
Keep Guests Cool at Your Outdoor Summer Wedding
There are many upsides to having an outdoor summer wedding – beautiful backdrop, vibrant seasonal flowers, and blue, sun-filled skies just to name a few. But this is also a time when the temps soar, and the mere thought of being away from air conditioning makes some faint. As a couple, you’ve done everything to make sure you both are fresh as can be during the big day. But what about your guests? Many are traveling from far and wide to share this exciting experience with you. The last thing you want is for them to only remember how uncomfortably hot they were when you exchanged vows. Here are fifteen amazing ideas to keep guests cool at your outdoor summer wedding.
Personalized Folding Fans
We immediately bookmarked this idea when we saw it at Lauren and Jordan’s nuptials at Blue Hill at Stone Barns. Married in early July, the couple provided guests with personalized folding fans.
Wedding Program Fans
Another variation on that first thought is to have your wedding program turned into a hand-held fan that incorporates a motif inspired by your florals and décor.
Sunglasses
Just because your future’s so bright together doesn’t mean everyone else needs to suffer. Pass out shades so guests aren’t blinded by the light during your ceremony.
Straw Hat Wedding Favors
Keep the chill, laidback vibe at your beach wedding going by setting up a station where guests can pick up a stylish straw hat.
Parasols
Throw guests some shade – in a good way! Parasols shield the sun’s harsh rays, but we also see them becoming a chic prop in candid wedding photos later in the night!
Bug Spray
On a practical note – bugs are at their absolute worst now. Offering complimentary bug spray means those buzzing pests won’t ruin the wedding fun.
Shaded Wedding Lounge Area
Guest will appreciate that you set up a shaded spot for them to relax, kick up their feet, and enjoy a drink.
Refreshing appetizers
Celebrate the summer with light, seasonal fare starting with your appetizers. How refreshingly delicious do these watermelon feta mint skewers look?
Beer Bath
A constant flow of cold alcoholic beverages is a surefire way to keep guests happy all day long. A beer bath with an assortment of ice-cold brews is perfect for a casual, outdoor celebration. Substitute a bath tub with a canoe, wheel barrel, or wagon.
Beer Koozie Favor
Spare your loved ones from the unpleasantness of drinking warm beer with koozie wedding favors. Set the drink accessories by the beer bath so they are put to immediate good use.
Cocktail Popsicles
Give your favorite summertime treat a sophisticated makeover by serving wedding popsicle cocktails. Infuse with fruit and herbs for added flavor and prettiness.
Ice Cream
Put a summery twist on your wedding dessert and serve ice cream instead cake (or with!). Real BB Wedding couple Christina and Derek satisfied their sweet tooth with an ice cream bar. Sara and Mitch had a Van Leeuwan’s truck roll up to their reception. See the newlyweds getting their much deserved scoops at the beginning of our post.
Flip Flops
Invite guests to kick off their shoes and dance comfortably into the night wearing complimentary flip flops.
Fruit Stand
Thank everyone for coming with a bag of farm fresh produce. Set a farmer’s market style stand where they can choose juicy seasonal treats to take home with them.
Hot Sauce Wedding Favor
Ok, hot sauce is not going to keep anyone cool. But the condiment will come in handy with all those backyard barbecues coming up.
Whether you are looking for creative, easy, fancy, or budget-friendly, there’s a “keep cool” idea to help every couple getting ready to say “I Do” in the hot months. Above all, guests will appreciate the efforts you made to ensure your summer lovin’ was a breeze for them too!