Of all twelve months, June boasts the most weddings in the United States, and for good reason. The warm weather of summer loosens up all formalities and obligations, leaving room for a relaxed approach to life and plenty of nostalgic summertime indulgence. Long gone are the months of summer vacation, but summer still feels like an escape — and what better way to enjoy your nuptials than with a June, July, or August celebration?
The biggest advantage summer weddings offer is flexibility. Couples are free to go from as formal to as casual as they’d like in terms of dress, venue, and decor. Whether marrying by the beach or a park, outdoors or inside, in a white sundress or full skirted gown, we’ve compiled our favorite inspiration and ideas to steal for a stunning summer wedding.
Work with the summer heat and humidity by letting your hair down in beachy waves and loose braids.
Summer bouquets can be as bright and colorful as the season’s pickings: sunflowers, poppies, freesia, daisies, and hydrangeas are all blooms on offer.
Offer your guests raffia fans as an elegant and useful wedding favor for outdoor ceremonies.
Invoke some summer nostalgia with a s’mores roasting party for dessert. Put your own unique spin on the treat by offering you and your spouse’s favorite candy bars alongside traditional Hershey’s!
Summer is a casual season; order a trendy naked wedding cake to match the carefree mood. Trade thick fondant for fresh berries and herbs for an equally showstopping cake.
Cacti and succulents are uniquely adorable substitutes for floral centerpieces — they’ll also thrive past the wedding, making them excellent gifts for your guests to take home.
For a subtle pop of color in your bridesmaids’ dresses, consider dreamy water color gowns.
Marrying under the hot sun means summer brides get to bare some skin in their wedding dress, whether with off the shoulder sleeves, backless styles, or dresses of light, airy lace.
Want to escape the heat of outdoor weddings? A spacious venue featuring plenty of natural light (thinking: lofts, barns, or museums) gives you the sunshine without any sweating involved.
Vacation season offers nature lovers the chance to book stunning venues in seasonal attractions such as national parks, wineries, forests, or beaches.
This rustic wedding altar is perfectly photogenic, while being easy on the budget and prep work. String chains of wildflowers, vines or fairy lights across the poles to decorate.
We adore this luxurious outdoor rug and seating set-up! The most charming arrangements feature quirky combinations of “indoor” furniture, but we’d suggest covering your white sofa before hauling it outdoors!
Incorporate local in-season produce like fresh greens, melons, corn, and zucchini into your reception menu for a lighter and vibrant meal.
Don’t forget drinks, either! Margaritas, coolers, slushies, mojitos, and lots of good beer all scream summer celebration.
While dancing on a grassy lawn is fine, this portable wood dance floor is a great way to keep shoes and dresses stain-free.
It also functions as an impromptu stage for musicians and an attentive audience!
This photo camper is a fun option for couples who want the experience of a photo booth in an outdoor wedding.
Brides aren’t the only ones who can play with summertime fashion; grooms can accessorize their suits with hats and sunglasses that fit their style.
Late summer nights mean your outdoor reception will be set in the glow of candles, fireflies, fairy lights, and the dimming glow of the sunset as you and your guests raise a toast.
At the end of the night, stage a fun getaway in a boat, whether driving or rowing, for the ultimate summer wedding experience.
For a less finicky alternative to sparklers, have your guests send you off with glowsticks.
Summer weddings suit couples who gravitate towards casual, comfortable style, don’t mind a little heat, and can’t wait to spend the late summer night dancing and mingling with guests. We’d suggest some extra planning before the big event to ensure you and your guests stay comfortable and hydrated throughout the ceremony. Our guide to attending a summer wedding highlights considerations to take in for a hot weather celebration, while our comprehensive wedding planning checklist will ensure that crafting your perfect summer wedding is a no-fuss affair!
What’s your experience with being a bridesmaid? Did you have any unexpected costs that weren’t covered here? Let us know — we would love to hear from you! Plus, don’t forget to check out our Facebook and Pinterest pages for more wedding inspo!
