Tips for Planning an Alt Summer Wedding - Part 1
I’ve been a photographer in the alt wedding scene for the last decade, so I’d like to believe that I have some pearls of wisdom to share with you about planning a summer wedding! Summer is the most popular season for weddings (aside from October 🎃) for the warm weather and longer days BUT there are more challenges when you’re going goth!
Whether you are just starting the planning process for your wedding or you’re almost at the finishing line with little details, hopefully these tips and tricks will help you to make the day run smoothly! Also, booking an engagement shoot ahead of the big day can help you to practice being the centre of attention, having fun with poses and it gives your wedding photographer an idea of what you want for the big day and final images.
Choosing a Venue
Summer opens up more options for venues as there are temporary structures such as teepees and gazebos and many couples choose to get married outdoors, in the forest etc.
Weather Contingencies: Make sure there's a plan for unexpected weather changes. Many outdoor venues offer indoor options or tents as a backup.
Accessibility: Consider the comfort of your guests, especially in hot weather. Venues with shaded areas, fans, or air conditioning can make a big difference.
Natural Beauty: Take advantage of the season's natural beauty by choosing a venue with lush gardens, blooming flowers, or scenic views.
Lighting Options: If you do choose to be outside you can bring string lights, lanterns, and candles to create a magical ambiance.
Timing is Everything
Summer days are long, but the midday heat can be intense. I recommend creating a schedule to keep you and your guests comfy.
Ceremony Time: You can opt for a late afternoon or early evening ceremony to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Reception: An evening reception allows guests to enjoy cooler temperatures and a beautiful sunset. You could keep the numbers low in the day and go all out for the party!
Dress for the Season
If you’re dreaming of that big goth dress, fear not, there are ways to make it work through a hot summer day.
The Bride: I really recommend satin for your dress as it’s breathable and doesn’t crease for pictures. Why not have a casual second dress for the evening?
The Groom: You can go down the linen suit route, but who says you even need to wear a suit! I’ve seen kilts, customised jackets – the sky is the limit!
Tailoring: Ask your dressmaker / tailor if amends can be made to make parts of the outfit adaptable e.g. Legend Bridal will create a removable skirt for you 🖤
Guests: Inform your guests about the dress code and suggest breathable fabrics and hats or sunglasses for outdoor ceremonies.
Shoes: Break in your shoes or bring multiple pairs to stay comfy.
Stay Hydrated!
Keeping everyone hydrated and cool is crucial for a summer wedding, and lots of brews on tap if you’re anything like me!
Refreshment Stations: Set up stations with water, lemonade, or tea, throughout the day. Extra water bowls if there are a furry guests attending!
Fans: A fun idea is to provide hand fans or parasols for guests to use during the outdoor ceremony. These could be themed or designed to suit the wedding.
Resting: Make sure there’s lots of places for guests to sit, preferably in the shade.
Bugs: If the outdoor space is likely to have bugs, you can grab bug spray, wipes or citronella candles to keep them at bay.
Sun cream: Keep a stash of sun cream to hand, for anyone who needs a top up!
Entertainment
Summer weddings allow guests to enjoy outdoor spaces, and plan summer-friendly activities to keep your guests (especially kids) entertained.
Lawn Games: Hoopla or giant Jenga can be fun for guests of all ages.
Colouring Books: Keep the kids busy with a little colouring station, handy for good and bad weather.
Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth with summer-themed props for guests to enjoy.
