5 Fun Ideas for an Outdoor Summer Wedding

Can't picture having your wedding in a traditional ballroom? Summer is the perfect season to take your wedding outdoors. And while you can certainly still throw a formal affair under the stars, we have a soft spot for less buttoned-up summer affairs. Here, some of our favorite ideas.

Ceremony Aisle
With an outdoor ceremony, you typically have much more flexibility with the seating arrangements. We love this winding aisle, which gives each guest a front-row seat as you walk. 

whimsical ceremony setup
Photo Credit: Blenda Montoro Photography

Creative Appetizers
Ice cream isn’t the only thing that can be served in a cone — pass trays of tuna tartar in waffle cones.

tuna in waffle cones
Photo Credit: Shoreshotz Photography

And for dessert, offer layered desserts inspired by push-up popsicles — a childhood favorite.

push up pops
Photo Credit: Shoreshotz Photography

Yard Games
Keep your guests entertained by encouraging some healthy competition! Set up a bean bag toss, a DIY bowling alley, or picnic tables with board and card games. 

wedding yard gamespumpkin bowling
Photo Credit: Ace Photography

Bring the Indoors Out

Just because you're having an outdoor fête doesn't mean that you have to sit on burning-hot metal chairs. Rent comfy couches and chairs for your cocktail hour.

cocktail hour decor
Photo courtesy of Canvas & Canopy Events by Cortnie

A traditional black and white dance floor instantly transforms a backyard into an elegant, glamorous location for a wedding reception.

outdoor dance floor
Photo Credit: Abby Jiu Photography

And adding chandeliers is another way to glam up an outdoor space.

chandeliers outside
Photo Credit: Picotte Photography

Water Activities
Getting married near a lake or ocean? Take advantage of the water to make a dramatic entrance or exit.

ceremony entrance
Photo Credit: Brawns Photography

wedding farewell
Photo Credit: K&K Photography

—Kristen Klein