How to keep your ‘wedding cool’ during a heatwave!

Lisa Jade Photography

Want to know how to keep everyone cool at a summer wedding? You’re in the right place.

Making small, thoughtful changes to cope with the heat will be appreciated by all, and most importantly means that everyone will continue to enjoy the celebrations without flaking out.

Tip #1 – Ice Ice Baby!

Make sure your caterers go to town with the amount of ice they are supplying. Don’t just assume this will be taken care of, trust us when we say its best to check! 

On a really warm day you’ll get through the ice much quicker. It disappears as soon as it sees the sun and your guests are going to want heaps of it in their drinks to cool them down, and ice baths will need to be constantly topped up. 

Tip #2 – Hydration Station

We all know that weddings can be boozy affairs, so be sure to have lots of soft drinks available throughout the day to keep guests hydrated. These can be super stylish too – we love using large Kilner dispensers, adding crates or wine boxes for some height and finishing with bespoke signs. Here are a few of our favourite soft drink suggestions to quench your thirst: 

Still water, cucumber ribbons, fresh mint, lemon slices, ice

Traditional still lemonade, fresh lemon slices, ice

Fruity punch: Cranberry juice, pineapple juice, orange juice, fresh lime juice, ginger ale, ice , fresh fruit garnish

A personalised mocktail can be a great addition.

Rob Tarren Photography

Tip #3 – Sunscreen

Add sunscreen to your bathroom baskets for guests to keep topped up during the day, and if you have a rural setting add insect repellent too.

Top tip: Make sure you and the bridal party use a good all day sunscreen in the morning – the last thing you need is to get burnt on your big day. 

Lisa Jade Photography

Tip #4 – All Scream ‘Ice Cream!’

If you’re able to secure a beautiful ice cream van or trike it’s guaranteed to be a welcome frozen treat for guests. There are some amazing suppliers out there, some even offer alcoholic sorbets!

If you’re having wafers you may be able to add your wedding monogram.

Tip #5 – Create Shade

It’s hugely tempting to enjoy the sun all day, but the last thing you want is anyone getting heatstroke. Create shaded areas by adding seating under trees, and if your venue owns parasols make sure you use them. Alternatively you could hire some super stylish gazebos or parasols; we adore these from Raj Tent Co.

Eve Dunlop Photography

And finally, remember…be flexible.

If the suits are too warm, let the men remove a layer, and allow children to change into cooler casual clothing. Your wedding planner will guide you on how to stay cool, care for your guests and enjoy the day. There will always be little changes to the day, but your trusted suppliers will be on hand to help, so enjoy it, and make sure you drink plenty of water! 

Lots of love, 

Rach x