Last week we chatted a bit about how our brides and grooms stay cool during a summer wedding day, and now it’s time to focus on your guests! After all, they are the ones who love and support you most, so you want them to have an enjoyable experience during your DC wedding day!

Allow for Cooler Attire.
I’m ALL for a black tie wedding, don’t get me wrong! But if you’re planning an outdoor affair in the summer, it may be best to give your guests the option of something a bit cooler — breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or seersucker are perfect for warm nights under the stars! 

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
You may remember this tip if you read my tips for brides and grooms, but I truly don’t think there is anything more important. Not only is an ice cold drink refreshing, it naturally cools your body temperature which is key on hot wedding days. I love the idea of having an elegant water and drink station set up for your guests upon arrival; think clear containers, gold straws, and frozen fruit of their choice — delicious and adorable!

The Little Things Mean the Most.
A few small touches can go a long way with your guests! Frozen towels, personal fans, or even cocktail hour misters are often a huge hit with guests because everyone is looking for a bit of relief! And don’t forget to throw some sunscreen in the toiletries basket! 

Grandparents First! 
When planning your family formals, I always recommend doing grandparents first! The heat can be a bit harder on older folks, so it’s best to allow them to take their photos and head inside to relax while soaking up some AC! 

Treat Yo’ Guests.
Want your guests to love you? Be sure to serve some sort of chilly treats or refreshments during the reception! Anything from ice cream and popsicles to a frozé bar and snow cones will be a huge hit and provide a bit of relief in the sweltering heat. 

Raise the… Tent?
As I’ve mentioned, oh, a dozen or so times in this post, summer is obviously known for it’s heat on the East Coast. And with that heat often comes thunderstorms! The good news is, these usually roll in later in the evening, so we can still enjoy lots of outdoor portrait time! But if you’re planning an outdoor reception, it may be wise to keep your eyes on the forecast (as if you aren’t already!)

I know reading through these lists can make your head spin and question whether or a not a summer wedding is even a good idea — I promise you, it is! The lush scenery of summer and epic sunsets cannot be beat, and believe me when I say that the other seasons have their own challenges as well between snow, rain, and hurricane force winds! The most important part of wedding planning is choosing a team that you trust to handle whatever comes their way, weather or otherwise. We love working with our couples to ensure a perfect day no matter what is thrown at us!