Are you thinking of getting married in the summer? I get it, everything is brighter, happier and the days are longer but coping with a summer wedding in North Carolina might take some planning.
Its Hot! Yes, you can guarantee that summer on the East coast will be hot so think about a lighter dress code; maybe no jackets for the men, a light flowy dress, suggest hats for the ladies (think English Garden party attire) to keep the sun (and bugs) away. Plan you ceremony for later in the day to avoid the hottest part of the day. Search for venues with A/C. Set out a cute table with fans and bottles of water for your guests – so much more useful than most favors. Have parasols for your bridesmaids instead of florals.
There’s a good possibility of a summer storm! I tell all my couples, summer storms pop up frequently around 4PM so be prepared. Either be flexible on your timings (these storms don’t last long), plan to have your ceremony before 2pm or after 6pm or search for a venue that has an amazing rainy day plan or dedicated covered ceremony space. Our venue has both an air conditioned indoor ceremony room and a huge covered outdoor chapel seating 200 of your favourite people and definitely takes away the stresses of will it rain or not. Its also the perfect space if its hotter than hades with ceiling fans and of course shade.
Its sunny! There are always those guests who forget to wear sunblock. In addition to water and fans, maybe provide a basket with some sunblock sachets and some shine blotters. While we are at it, remind your guests that in the summer;
There are bugs so it might be a good idea to remind your guests to wear bug spray or just provide some. Some venues provide thoughtful restroom baskets with “just in case” items – we most definitely do but check with your venue, if they don’t then put together your basket and set it out in the restrooms.
Lets talk food think lighter fare, salads, cooling desserts, lots of ice and nothing that will perish if it sits out. Ask your venue and caterers their suggestions regarding menus and serving options. Hire an ice cream truck, serve frozen cocktails (mocktails) during social hour. Set up a drinks station for guests to help themselves to water, iced tea and lemonade. We have both an indoor and outdoor bar but check with your venue if you have a good spot to set up.
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