Tips for a Successful Summer Wedding in the South

Summertime’s bright colored flowers, lush green grass, and wide expanses of blue sky make for a perfect background for your once-in-a-lifetime wedding. The sunny weather is just one factor that helps make summer a prime wedding season. The fact that many people take vacations during the summer months also makes it easier for people to get to your wedding if they’re traveling from out of town. And you’ll benefit from having anniversary celebrations for years to come during the wonderful summer months.

However, one thing you don’t usually see in those picturesque summer weddings that sparked your inspiration – the sweltering heat and overbearing humidity. June, July, and August are the hottest months of the year, with average temperatures between 85-88 degrees, and an average of 36 days where temperatures reach the 90s. August is the most humid month of the year, with dew points averaging around 76%.

Our advice – don’t let the weather deter you from having the wedding of your dreams at a time that’s the most convenient for all your friends and family to attend. Legacy Stables and Events has great tips to make your summer wedding a success and keep everyone comfortable throughout the ceremony and reception.

Consider an Indoor/Outdoor Event. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of saying your vows outside under a bright blue sky, but your father can’t stand to be outdoors for more than half an hour in the heat. Legacy Stables and Events can allow you to host the perfect wedding with our indoor/outdoor venues and flexibility. You could set up for a ceremony outside on the Legacy House Terrace and have your reception inside the Grace Barn. Or consider hosting the ceremony in the Carolina Room or Salem Stallway, with big barn doors that open to beautiful garden views. Your reception in either barn would be indoors with air conditioning, giving you the best of both worlds. You don’t have to choose between natural beauty and comfort at Legacy Stables! 

Choose Wedding Attire, Hair, and Makeup Carefully. If you’ve always dreamed of an all-black wedding party or love the look of form-fitting dresses, maybe a summer wedding isn’t for you. The hot, humid days lend themselves to light, gauzy fabrics and flowy styles that breathe! Even for the men, consider linen suits or even the traditional southern style of seersucker. There’s a reason why those pin-stripes pop up in the summer, the fabric helps suits breathe! When it comes to hairstyles, a sleek updo will stay elegant all day whereas other hairstyles succumb to the frizzies. And of course, you’ll want make-up with staying power for when the sweat beads start to glisten.

Think Light when it Comes to the Menu. No one feels like eating a big heavy meal when temperatures are at their peak. Consider items such as salads, fruits, and grilled fish or chicken. Talk with your caterer for an idea of what fruits and vegetables are in season and what foods hold up well in summer temperatures.

Be Creative with Desserts. Summertime is known for fun treats such as slushies, ice cream, and popsicles. Let guests enjoy the moment by providing some cool treats to eat. You can still have your traditional buttercream cake as well, just make sure it’s kept inside in the AC until you’re ready to bring it out and serve it to guests, otherwise, the icing could melt as fast as the guests’ ice cream cones.

If you’re hoping for a summer wedding, it’s never too early to start planning. Vendors book up well in advance during this busy time of year. Call today to schedule a tour of Legacy Stables and Events to get your wedding plans on the right track for your big day.

Photo Credit: Sarah Sekaly Photography