Planning a Summer Wedding

Summer can be a fantastic time to get married. If you're planning a summer wedding, there are many things to attend to. The first thing to think about is the location of your wedding. Many couples decide to take advantage of the beautiful weather and have their ceremony outdoors. A park, backyard or beach are all ideal outdoor locations for a summer ceremony. While you can hold a summer wedding indoors, of course, outdoors can be a casual, fun and beautiful alternative. Be sure to secure your preferred location as far in advance as possible to ensure availability.

Another thing you'll want to to far in advance is to send out your invitations. Always request an RSVP so you'll know how many guests to plan for. On your invitations, you'll want to specify the location of the wedding and whether it is indoors or outdoors so guests can dress accordingly. Light fabrics and colors are ideal for hot weather. Brides can choose from a variety of different dress styles. Some summer brides choose to go with spaghetti straps or strapless. Others forgo the tradition of the long gown and choose something shorter and more casual, especially if the wedding is at an outdoor location like the beach. The groom may want to choose a light colored suit in a comfortable, breathable fabric.

Decorating for your summer wedding should be fun. Many couples choose a theme, such as beach or island. For themes like these, try decorating with sand and shells. Colors like creamy beige and vibrant aqua are gorgeous as summer wedding colors. If you're not doing an ocean related theme, go for colors that reflect your summer environment. This may include sunny yellow, sky blue and grass green. Of course, wedding color selection is a highly personal choice and each couple should select colors they love. Table centerpieces can be anything from a flower arrangement to a gurgling tabletop fountain.

The menu for a summer wedding should be somewhat light. Fresh seafood is a perfect choice for a summer wedding, as are lighter meats like lean poultry. Side dishes should include seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers and corn on the cob. Be sure to incorporate some summery fruits into the menu as well, such as strawberries, blueberries, citrus and watermelon. For the wedding cake, something light like angel food or summery like lemon adorned with summer fruit and flowers would be perfect.

You will also need to think about the wedding favors you will give to your guests. Traditional choices for all seasons include disposable cameras and blowing bubbles. Handheld fans are great for summer weddings because not only are they decorative, they're functional as well. No matter what favors you ultimately choose, your guests are sure to enjoy your spectacular summer wedding!