An easy guide to planning the ultimate summer wedding

Peak wedding season in India might be in the cooler winter months, but it doesn’t mean no one is getting married during the summer. Maybe you’re having an intimate European destination wedding or a big fat celebration on the beach in Goa before the monsoon hits. Wherever your venue may be, it’s essential to plan a summer wedding well in advance and have a checklist so you don’t miss out on the important stuff. Ahead, we break down the points to take note of if you’re getting hitched in the summer. 

Make provisions in your décor for hot temperatures

If your ceremony is indoors, then you don’t have much to worry about. Make sure the area is well-ventilated and air-conditioned and talk to your planner beforehand to be prepared in case of any power cuts. If you’re planning an outdoor event, then incorporate plenty of shaded areas and electric fans, in addition to misters that will keep things cool. You could even go the half-outdoors and half-indoors route to optimise the weather conditions. 

When planning your wedding décor, don’t ignore the weather. The temperatures are bound to affect your big day, so try incorporating elements that work in the summer season. All flowers might not stand up well to the heat, so opt for native seasonal blooms that will last long and look good too. Pay attention to details—for instance, if you’re having your ceremony in the sun and are using metal or wooden chairs for your guests to sit on, cover them with cloth or cushion so your guests can enjoy the wedding without feeling uncomfortable. 

Be thoughtful and creative with your wedding favours

While wedding favours these days tend to go beyond the usual box of mithai, they are still predictable, with many choosing to give small planters, photo frames, desserts, and more. But if you want to go one step further and give something that is on-theme as well as practical, go for a pair of sunglasses if you’re having a day ceremony. You can personalise the gift by getting your and your partner’s initials or your wedding hashtag on the side of the frames. Other summer-related ideas include gifting mini umbrellas that they can stick into their drinks, or mini portable fans to keep themselves cool. 

If it’s a destination wedding and guests will be flying in, then it’s worth spending a little extra on goody bags that contain thoughtful items like water bottles, travel-sized skincare like sunscreen and beauty wipes, bug-repellents, and snacks for them to munch on.

Plan a weather-appropriate food menu

Indian wedding food tends to be indulgent and heavy by default, and while you may not want to change the entire menu keeping the hot weather in mind, it is worth adding dishes and drinks that guests can cool down with. Make space for salad bars and ice cream stations, as well as plenty of options to sip on. You could also welcome the guests with a cooler like lemonade or fruit-infused sherbet, a gesture that they’ll surely love!

When it comes to perishable food items like your buttercream-covered wedding cake, cheese platter, fruits, and all the cold dishes, make sure that you arrange for them to be kept in a cool place before they’re served to avoid mishaps—no one wants melted cake. 

Prepare for unexpected weather

Even if your wedding is during the summer season, it doesn’t hurt to be well prepared for unseasonal rain or showers during your big day, as hot weather can sometimes result in thunderstorms and windy weather. Talk to your wedding planner about preparing the venue accordingly—make sure there’s plenty of shelter available for everyone attending if it’s an outdoor event and have a backup plan ready.

All images: Pexels

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