6.05.2009

Tips / Tricks : Beat the Heat!

It's June, it's Texas, it's hot! Yes it's a fact of life in Texas that can't be ignored or avoided. The best way to beat the heat for your wedding day is to stay inside, but we know that for some brides an outdoor wedding is the only way to go. So here are some tips and tricks to make sure that you, your wedding party, your family and friends, (and your photographers!) don't melt on your special day.

- For your outdoor reception, provide some cooling shade by renting a tent. Even better, rent some fans or portable air conditioners to cool your guests off. Water misters can also provide welcome relief.

- Hydration is key! Make sure there's plenty of bottled water to go around. And if your ceremony is outside, don't make your guests wait for the reception to get a drink. Have water ready for guests to pick up as they are seated. Water bottles are also the perfect place to add a little personal touch like these bottles Heather & Jarred had at their wedding.



- Try to find a location for your ceremony that's in the shade so your guests won't melt in their seats. If that's not an option, provide umbrellas for your guests so they can carry their shade with them. These custom monogrammed parasols from etsy.com would be perfect!



- For the bride, make sure your wedding dress fits the occasion. That means lightweight fabrics without too many layers. Also make sure that you wear a foundation or moisturizer with sun block in it to make sure your face isn't too rosy for photos. And carry along blotting papers in case you get a little shiny instead of powder which will just start to look piled on. For the guys, give them a break and don't make them wear the full tuxedo! Lightweight khakis and white button up shirts look just as snazzy.

- Instead of traditional programs have your program printed on a fan like these, also available from etsy.com. (Love etsy!) Or get a personal message printed on fans like the ones Brittany & Kyle had for their outdoor ceremony.



- Make sure your flowers can withstand the heat too! Native flowers might be a good option for this, after all they're used to the Texas sun! Otherwise tropical flowers like lilies and orchids will work well cause they're used to the heat too.

- Serve food that's light and refreshing. A steamy bowl of soup is probably not what your guests will want to eat while wilting in 90+ degree heat. How about a gazpacho instead?

- Summer in Texas also means mosquitos so be prepared! Citronella candles are a must. Also have repellant on hands for those of us that attract the mosquitos more than others (my blood is like candy to mosquitos!)

So hopefully these tips will help you put together the perfect outdoor summer wedding. Even in Texas!


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