Summer tends to be a good time for weddings and events. Long days, ample vacation time, decreased likelihood of rain, and the overall fun of the season lure many to hold events at this time.
However, summer isn’t always equal to romantic sunsets and cool nights. Sometimes, it can be downright hot and humid! If you want your summer event to go on without a hitch, follow our tips to keeping your guests and your event as cool as it could be:
- Design the event for the weather, and have a back-up plan.
First, rent appropriate items for your logistics needs. Get outdoor seats, and not metal folding chairs, as they can burn guests when left out in the sun. If you’re using a tent, opt for one that has enough ventilation and choose a light color if you can, to keep the venue from getting stuffy. Do look out for guests who may have physical challenges, too. Figure out work-arounds for guests who are using wheelchairs or may find walking through glass, stairs, or rocky terrains challenging.
Second, hatch a back-up plan in case of power outage. If your venue does not have a generator, have inexpensive hand-fans ready so your guests can create their own breeze when needed.
- Address wardrobe options on your invitation.
Your guests will be relieved to find out that they can dress comfortably for an outdoor or summer bash. If you prefer that they wear formal clothing, you can indicate “lightweight, but formal attire”. If you’re more lenient with your guests’ attire, you can also leave an open statement like, “dress for the weather”.
- Set up a “relief” station.
Your guests will most likely come to the wedding armed with fans and handkerchiefs in anticipation of the heat. To up the ante, give them a few other things that can make their stay more comfortable. Try setting up a station where they can help themselves to chilled towels, bug spray, flipflops (for a casual event) and even sunscreen!
- Give out keepsakes that can keep guests cool.
Get your event giveaways to do double-duty by giving out monogrammed fans, sunglasses, spray mists or if budget permits, umbrellas. Not only will these be useful even way after the event, they’ll also give your guests something to remember the event by.
- Make use of parasols and canopies to decorate the space.
For garden weddings or backyard parties, you can provide parasols to guests to add a whimsical, pretty touch while keeping them cool. Canopies on the other hand, provide just the right shade, while still letting the breeze in. Just ensure that the canopies have removable walls!
- Serve refreshments during the event.
Perhaps the most important of all is to keep guests hydrated all-throughout the event. If it’s a seated event, serve ample amounts of coolers right before the ceremony. If guests can move around, post a few self-serve cooling stations throughout the space, so they can help themselves to drinks as often as they need to.
(Image Credit: Pitcher)
