There’s a reason why around 57% of weddings took place from June to September last year. Summer – even a great British one that’s not so predictable when it comes to the weather – offers a long list of perks when hosting a wedding.
Long days, warmer evenings and an abundance of natural light represent just some of the benefits to tying the knot during high season. Like any season however, summer has its own unique set of challenges. Read on to discover our top tips for hosting a summer wedding and jump over the hurdles that get in the way of a perfect day.
Select a venue
One of the first tasks on any couple’s wedding planning to-do list is picking a venue. A venue that delivers both indoors and out is the key to summer wedding success.
You and your wedding guests will enjoy double the space by choosing a wedding venue that’s as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside. As well as spending your special day in our stunning Tudor-style manor, you’ll have 10 acres of lawns, gardens and parkland all to yourself when marrying at Holmewood Hall, and they all make picturesque backdrops.
Dress the part
Selecting the right attire for a summer wedding is crucial, and thankfully there are so many fantastic trends to explore in the world of bridalwear and groomswear for summer 2024.
It’s not just the look of your ensemble that matters. The material used to create your stunning gown or sophisticated suit is more important than ever when marrying during summer. Go for lightweight, breathable fabrics when choosing your wedding day attire. Flowing chiffon, lightweight linen, and shorter hems are summer-inspired and will keep you comfortable even as temperatures rise.
Time your day
Escaping the peak of the summer heat is certainly recommended, especially if you are blessed with lots of sun on your wedding day.
While you can’t predict the weather, devising a wedding timeline where the main events or outdoor activities are scheduled for late afternoon or early evening when temperatures are milder will ensure a pleasant experience for you and your guests. Timing your day to take advantage of that magical summer sunset is a must too.
Keep it cool
Keeping your cool and helping your guests stay refreshed is simple with the right accessories. If a lot or part of your special day will be hosted outdoors, make sure guests have a shady space to retire to if the sun becomes a little too intense. You can also beat the heat with cooling favours as Wedinspire describes:
“Encourage guests to adopt personal cooling strategies to stay comfortable throughout the day, offer handheld fans as wedding favours or place them on each seat. Guests can use them to create a cool breeze during the ceremony and throughout the day. Supply guests with cooling towels that can be soaked in cold water and placed on the back of the neck or forehead. These towels provide instant relief and help lower body temperature.”
Drinks stations serving ice-cold water, refreshing mocktails and fruity spritzers also make great touches, while an ice cream cart is a fun way to serve desserts and a practical option for keeping guests cool.
Just add sunshine!
Here at Holmewood Hall, we make it easy to tie the knot, stay on budget and enjoy the wedding planning experience. Our complete, all-inclusive and exclusive-use wedding packages are designed and delivered with couples just like you in mind. Our new Luxe package even comes with a free upgrade if you choose one of our late availability dates for 2024 to host a summer wedding with us.
Worth £2,000, our Sunshine upgrade includes everything you need to host a summer wedding, including Giant Garden Games, Ice Cream Tricycle, Pimm’s or Prosecco Station, and 40 additional evening guests.
Looking to marry in summer 2025 or during another season? Our packages don’t end there. Explore our Classical, Luxe, Intimate and Twilight wedding packages for further details here.
