How to Beat a Heatwave on Your Wedding Day

2nd August 2024

So, it’s your wedding day! The big day you’ve been dreaming about, meticulously planning, and possibly even stressing over for months or years. But wait, what’s this? A heatwave?! With a bit of creativity and some cool tricks up your sleeve, you can turn a scorching hot wedding day into a breezy celebration. Here’s your ultimate guide to beating the heat on your special day, and some Summer wedding venues that might help take the edge off the heat!

Hydrate Like It’s Your Job

Before we get into the fun stuff, let’s cover the basics. Hydration is key! Set up hydration stations with infused water, lemonade, and iced teas. 

One idea for a Summer wedding is choosing a venue near a body of water, whether it's sea, lake or river! One gorgeous Summer wedding venue that might help to take the edge off the heat is Lusty Glaze Beach Weddings in Cornwall. While it's absolutely stunning to say your vows in front of the ocean, on a more practical level, that sea breeze might help keep temperatures down.

Cool Welcome Kits

As your guests arrive, surprise them with welcome kits packed with essentials to combat the heat. Think mini fans, cooling towels, sunscreen, and chic sunglasses. It’s practical and doubles as a thoughtful gesture showing you care about their comfort.

Dress Light and Right

Opt for lighter fabrics and breezier designs for both the bride and groom. Think linen suits, flowy dresses, and breathable materials. For the bride, consider a stylish updo to keep hair off your neck, and for the groom, ditch the heavy jacket when possible. Comfort equals happiness!

If style can't be compromised, then head for the shade! There are plenty of amazing forest and woodland wedding venues up and down the UK that offer shade in abundance and also look magical. Fforest Weddings in Cilgerran, Wales, is a great choice for this - get married under ancient old trees that not only will look amazing in your wedding photos but will also help to keep you in the shade.

Refreshing Treats

Turn your dessert table into a cooling oasis. Serve ice cream, gelato, or popsicles in a variety of flavours. An ice cream truck or a snow cone stand can be a nostalgic and delightful surprise. For a more sophisticated touch, consider a champagne popsicle or a boozy slushie bar.

Talk to Your Suppliers

It's beneficial for both you and for your suppliers to be on the same page when it comes to the big day, and even more so when the weather takes an unexpected turn! Talk to your suppliers about what they can do to help navigate the hot day. For example, does your wedding cake need to be kept cool and how long can it safely be on display before it starts to melt?

Time It Right

Plan your ceremony and outdoor activities for earlier in the morning or later in the evening when the sun isn’t as intense. This not only helps with the heat but also provides softer, more flattering lighting for your photos.

Tipis and marquees are always popular choices when it comes to Summer wedding venues. A great chocie in our opinion is The Orchard at Munsley in Herefordshire; a rustic, traditional marquee wedding venue that can comfortably hold all of your family and friends, and keep you all out of the blaring sun without compromising on beauty.

Chilled Cocktails

Keep the drinks flowing, but make them refreshing. Offer a selection of chilled cocktails and mocktails. Think mojitos, margaritas, or fruity sangrias. Frozen cocktails are a fantastic option too – who can resist a frozen daiquiri or a piña colada on a hot day?

Plan B – Indoor Backup

Always have a Plan B. If the heat becomes unbearable, having an indoor backup space can be a lifesaver. Ensure your venue has air-conditioned areas that can accommodate your guests comfortably.

If you're able to, it's always handy to choose a wedding venue that has a few options to shield you from whatever weather may come your way! A great example of this is the stunning Came House in Dorset; this versatile wedding venues offers a classic marquee and stunning grounds, but if the heat really is too much then head indoors to the beautiful ballrooms and conservatory which are equally as elegant.

A heatwave on your wedding day might not be part of the original plan, but with these tips, you can ensure that your big day remains fun, memorable, and comfortable for everyone involved. After all, the most important thing is celebrating your love and creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones – and a little heat can’t stand in the way of that!