Summertime in Michigan is worth those long and gray winter months, right? The beaches, the lakes, the boats, the dunes: we have it all here! And summer is also wedding season. Picture a stunning day with clear blue skies. Guests stroll through gardens surrounded by gorgeous white roses, raising their champagne glasses and raving about the most beautiful wedding ever. But wait! The day you’ve chosen is unseasonably warm, and we can’t have guests melting from the heat and humidity or mosquitoes devouring your cake. But fear not—we’ve got you covered! Here are our top tips to keep your guests cool, your cake intact, and your day sublime.
Our Job is in Tents
Sorry, we usually don’t go for dad jokes, but it was there, and we did it. Anyways, we’ve got you covered: literally. The best way to keep your guests and goods cool and comfortable is by using a tent, so let our awesome team guide you to the perfect fit. We have an incredible selection to suit your needs, and if you are worried about the fit or dimensions of the tent being right for your venue, we create custom CAD layouts, so you can start planning your dream event even before setting foot in the venue. You’ll see exactly how it will look, and we’ll catch any potential issues in advance. And the best part? If you need to accommodate more guests last-minute, no worries! We can whip up a new layout in seconds.
And under the tent, here are some other fantastic ways to keep the focus on you and not on the beads of sweat forming on Uncle Bill’s forehead.
Enough Wind and Water to Make Even Christopher Cross Blush
First things first, consider renting top-notch portable fans that are both powerful and whisper-quiet. Test them out to ensure they won’t drown out those heartfelt toasts and groovy beats. Strategically position them around the seating areas and the bar, creating a blissful oasis of chill. Next up, equip your guests with cool-down gadgets like hand-held battery-operated fans or delightful paper fans, and place these little lifesavers in vases or themed containers. Additionally, quench everyone’s thirst by serving up ample ice water in chic glasses garnished with zesty slices of lemon, lime, or orange—color coordination that will make all the fashionistas smile! Take it up a notch by having friendly staff hand-pass ice-cold water on shimmering silver trays throughout the event. And for a more laid-back affair, stock the bar or buffet with ice-filled coolers brimming with refreshing water bottles.
Stay Cool and Stylish
Find a wedding gown in lighter fabrics like cotton organdy, chiffon, crepe, or voile over silk. Stay cool, prevent sweat stains, and rock that aisle with ease, but don’t leave the groom behind! Choose breathable suit/tuxedo fabrics, and consider open-backed vests for added comfort. Now, onto the shoes. Opt for thicker heels that won’t sink into soft grass, providing both style and stability. It’s hair time! Beat the heat by scheduling a trial-run with a pro hairstylist. Experiment with sleek dos, like a pulled-back bun or a low ponytail that will stay put in the sticky temps. Leave those high hairstyles for another season!
Safeguarding Your Food and Décor
Let’s ensure your flowers stay fresh and fabulous throughout your special day! Keep them hydrated by placing bouquets upright with some water, ensuring the stems are exposed for a drink. If you want to save money while keeping things cool, consider choosing single-stem flowers. Hydrangeas are stunning but need a good H2O source, so display them in water-filled vases on tables instead of in bouquets. Store your flowers in the fridge between pre-wedding photos and the ceremony, and avoid spritzing centerpiece flowers in direct sunlight, as it can cause them to brown. For outdoor photos later in the day, check your bouquet for any heat damage. If it’s wilted, leave it out and strike a pose without it.
And when it comes to your menu, let’s keep it cool, delicious, and safe for everyone to enjoy! Keep seafood, cheeses, and meats in cooled serving dishes—or even on ice platters—to maintain their freshness. Make sure your caterer regularly swaps out warm salad dressings, and go for lighter, non-creamy dishes that are less likely to spoil. Embrace refreshing choices like cold veggies, seafood, mango skewers, and gazpacho shots—they’re not only tastier in the heat but also easier on your budget.
Because Bananarama said it was going to be a “Cruel Summer” doesn’t mean that fits your summer wedding. Channel your inner “Ice Ice Baby,” keeping things cool and comfortable on your magical day.